Chicago City Guide - Business Etiquette

Although Chicago is home to a diverse amount of industry, Midwest conservatism reigns with regard to business dress and manners. Normal business courtesies should always be observed, and the degree of formality depends on the nature of the business. A suit and tie for men, and for women a business suit (both skirts and trousers are acceptable) in banking, legal and sales professions, while computer and media companies are often more casual. Short-sleeved shirts are acceptable in summer.

Chicagoans are friendly and quick to refer to colleagues by their first names, but let the person with whom you are doing business set the business tone, whether it be formal or relaxed. Business cards are commonly exchanged at meetings and e-mail is a favourite means of communication.

Punctuality for business meetings is expected and time should always be allowed for traffic delays. Business hours are from 0800/0830 to 1700. Working late is common, and it is not unusual to work well into the night or over the weekend. Working lunches are more common than working breakfasts and may be anything from a sandwich and coffee to a more serious, although not prolonged, restaurant meal.

Often business and pleasure are combined so meeting for drinks or dinner is a popular end to the working day. As a guest, not overindulging in alcohol is always a good idea. Evening dinner invitations can be to the home or to a restaurant. Visitors should bring a bottle of wine to the home or offer to share part of the restaurant bill.