As a Midwestern city whose traditional economic base was in manufacturing, Cleveland possesses the conservative business manner typical of the region. Its citizens are friendly and hardworking. Formal business wear is often worn in the office. Formal business attire can always be counted on for sales calls or when meeting business associates. The working day typically runs 0900-1700.

Entertainment commonly takes place in restaurants (occasionally bars) either during lunch or in the evening. Gifts are not usually expected, although token gestures, such as a bottle of wine, are happily accepted after a deal has been completed. Business cards are normally exchanged after meals or meetings, not during introductions. Upon introductions, it is normal to call people by their last names, however, once a relationship has been established, people tend to call one another by their first names.