Given that we share a common history, love the same pop culture and enjoy a special relationship, you’d be forgiven for thinking that British and American workers would have a great deal in common. However, as we’ve discussed previously, there are many ways in which we’re poles apart: Americans well and truly work in the fast lane, and the cultural differences are stark. That’s what makes the infographic below so interesting. Honing in on a few specific areas (namely employment rights, pay and hours; perks and benefits; and manners and communication styles), it’s clear to see that there are a number of big differences between British and American workers. For instance, did you know that the average salary for a senior manager in the UK is £52,000, whereas the average salary for an individual in the same position in the US is $104,940? However, British workers enjoy 28 weeks of paid sick leave via Statutory Sick Pay, unlike their American counterparts who are entitled to 0 days of paid sick leave. In addition, US workers tend to be hired ‘at will’ – without an employment contract – meaning staff can be hired and fired on the spot. This is in stark contrast to British practices, where workers are generally employed under contracts and enjoy far greater job security. But, beyond satisfying curiosity, why is it so important that key decision-makers are aware of these differences? Well, it all boils down to the fact that those planning businesses expansion to the USA from the UK must be aware of these key dissimilarities in work culture. Not only are communication styles and attitudes different in the US, but ‘tangible’ elements that affect the bottom line are too: salary expectations and perks and benefits must be factored into a business expansion if a venture to the USA stands a chance of success. So, read the infographic below and share or save it for your future reference; you might be glad to have a simple comparison of the similarities and differences between the UK and USA to refer to when you’re knee-deep in research for your transatlantic business venture…

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