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Washington DC Business Tips (Washington, DC, USA)



The business scene in Washington used to mainly revolve around the government and politics. Not only was the federal presence to dominant industry, but dealing with it was the main purpose of most private sector industry in Washington DC.

These days, government is still the main business in Washington DC, but there are numerous A-list companies in the city, including US Airways, who have their headquarters in the Washington area. In recent years Washington DC has developed a whole new high-tech industry along the Dulles Corridor, which has transformed the expressway that links Washington DC with Dulles International Airport, into a thriving financial and business district, with many large offices and buildings.




Washington DC has certainly grown as a key financial city and is home to main important offices, but is generally much more low-key than comparable cities, such as New York. The pace of business life in Washington also tends to be more relaxed and less hectic.

Washington Business Hours / General Etiquette - Washington, DC, USA
In both dress and manners, Americans can be less formal than Europeans, although normal business courtesies should still be observed. The degree of formality necessary depends upon the actual nature of the business, with financial and legal professions being more formal than computer and media organizations. Although both men and women may still wear suits, generally light in color during warmer weather, short sleeve shirts are acceptable in the summer. In the winter, mainly dark suits are favored, often blue or dark gray and plain in style.

Business hours in the Washington bay area are usually from Monday to Friday, between 09:00 to 17:00, although some Washington offices may close slightly later. Many shops are open longer and often throughout the weekends, and some supermarkets are open 24 hours. Banks in Washington generally open from 08:00 to 16:00 and on one day of the week until late in the evening. On Saturdays, banks in Washington are often open until midday.

Working lunches are a popular way to do business in Washington and Americans are quick to use first-name terms. Some exclusive restaurants have a strict dress code, although a more informal, yet presentable dress code is acceptable. Drinks or dinner is a popular way to end the hard working week.

Greeting Someone in Washington - Washington, DC, USA
A brief and friendly handshake is usually the customary greeting in this business community. New acquaintances are often addressed on first name terms.

Smoking in Washington - Washington, DC, USA
Many restaurants now have a strict 'no smoking' policy, although some tend to cater for smokers in different areas. Most offices are now nonsmoking and as this is currently a sensitive subjective in America, it is best to only smoke when in the company of like-minded people.

 
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