Doing business & staying in touch

The wide variety of businesses in California encourages a variety of styles, depending on the industry involved. In general, Californians cultivate a relaxed, informal atmosphere in keeping with the climate and the California way of life: 'casual-smart' dress is a good rule of thumb, especially within industries such as film and TV, computing or multimedia. More conservative suits and business dress are the norm in legal and financial institutions.

Appointments and punctuality are expected procedure and business cards are widely used. Southern Californians tend to be open and laid back and it is not uncommon to be invited to someone's home for dinner as a prelude or conclusion to a business meeting. In San Diego for instance, a business meeting may include brunch at a popular seaside restaurant or dinner beside the pool at the host's hillside residence. In San Francisco and Los Angeles, however, 'power' breakfasts, catered lunches and coffee meetings are more common, while dinners at private homes are rare.

Where alcohol is concerned, it is best to wait and check the preferences of the host. Many Americans stick to soft drinks and Californians in particular are very health-conscious. Non-smoking bylaws are enforced in most of California’s public establishments and many Southern California residents do not smoke and are sometimes sensitive about smoking in their house. When making a private visit, gifts of wine, sweets from home or flowers are a good bet.