From Chicago to Paris: What U.S. Culture Taught Me About Assertive Communication

At 16, long before the internet era, I had the opportunity to go on a school exchange at Evanston High School, near Chicago 🛫🌎—lockers, cheerleaders, football players, and even raiding the fridges of strangers—I experienced it all! 🤩
With 15+ years at Disney 🐭 and other Anglo-Saxon companies, I developed business reflexes focused on clarity and efficiency. 😉

In a series of posts on cultural differences between the USA and France, I’ll be sharing some key insights on how to navigate effectively in an American professional environment.

Today, let’s focus on communication and assertiveness!

🎯 Assertiveness & Transparency
In the US, whether written or spoken, sentences are short and direct, with no ambiguity. Ambiguity is seen as a lack of confidence or clarity. Be precise in your words and avoid unnecessary detours: 🚮FR Thesis-antithesis-synthesis // 💡USA One clear idea!

📈 Results-Oriented
Prepare your topics to 3000%. Americans value concrete and tangible solutions. You’ll be on the hot seat right away—and it’s not considered impolite but rather a sign of respect for your time and theirs.

🤐 Zip it! Honesty & Self-Promotion
In France, we tend to downplay our achievements, but in the US, it’s the opposite. If you undersell yourself, it can lead to misunderstanding: “Why should I trust you if you’re not convinced of your own value?”

And you, how do you adapt your communication style in an international environment?
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