US workplaces are often informal on the surface but have clear unwritten rules.
Most people use first names, including for the boss. If unsure, listen to how others speak.
Dress follows the team. "Business casual" means neat pants or a skirt and a collared shirt, no suit.
Short and clear. Put the request in the first two lines: "Could you review the budget by Thursday?"
Use a clear subject: "Approval needed: Q3 budget by Thu".
Reply within one business day, even if only "Got it, I will send this by Friday."
"Reply all" only when everyone needs it.
Write the full question in one message, not "Hi" and wait.
Use public channels for work questions so others learn too.
Respect status: if someone is "away" or it is after hours, they may answer tomorrow. That is normal.
Be on time, even on video. Turn the camera on if others do.
Speak up at least once. Silence can look like no interest. Try: "One thing to add..." or "Can I ask a quick question?"
After the meeting, send a short summary of decisions and who does what.
Americans are fairly direct about work but soft in tone. They say "I see it a bit differently" more than "You are wrong."
Feedback often comes as a "sandwich": praise, the problem, then encouragement. Listen for the middle part; it is the real message.
Saying "I don't know, I will find out" is respected. Pretending to know is not.
Asking for help is normal, especially in your first 90 days.
Short, light conversation before meetings and in the kitchen: weekends, weather, sports, travel, food. Avoid salary, religion, politics, age and weight. "How are you?" usually expects "Good, thanks, and you?"
US managers expect you to tell them about your progress and results. A weekly short update ("Done this week, next week, blockers") helps.
"Let me make sure I understand: you need X by Friday?"
"Could you say that again a bit slower?"
"I'll circle back on that." (I will answer later.)
"That's a good point. Have we thought about...?"
Agreeing to everything to be polite, then missing the deadline. Say early: "I can do A by Friday, or B. Which is more important?"
Waiting to be asked for your opinion. Offer it.