Time is money
Americans are preoccupied with time. For them time is almost a tangible asset, which can be saved, spent, lost, found, invested, and wasted. Their central tenet is that “time is money” and wasting time is just as bad as wasting money. Thus punctuality is an essential part of US business etiquette and lateness is considered disrespectful and rude. Meetings start on the dot and are expected to proceed uninterruptedly. Schedules are important and deadlines are strictly adhered to. In meetings and negotiations great emphasis is put on getting the best results in the quickest possible time. Although this may appear hasty to others, it is in line with the time-conscious behavior of Americans. If you really want to annoy your American business partner, either be late for a meeting without calling in, or sit down and talk as if you have nothing else to do for the rest of the day.