Why Working in America Feels So Confusing for Expats

Many expats move to the U.S. expecting to adjust to a new job.What they don’t expect is having to decode an entirely different workplace culture.In this episode of Abroad in America, we step away from taxes and investments to explore something that affects nearly every expat living and working in the U.S.: understanding how the American workplace actually works.From meetings that start with small talk instead of the agenda, to communication styles that are more indirect than they seem, many of the unspoken rules can feel confusing at first. What might sound polite or positive on the surface can carry a very different meaning underneath.We break down the subtle dynamics that shape everyday interactions, including how feedback is delivered, why being “busy” is often treated as a signal of commitment, and how workplace hierarchy can feel both informal and high-stakes at the same time.You will also learn why self-advocacy plays such a critical role in American work culture, and how visibility often matters just as much as performance. For many expats, this can feel uncomfortable, especially if you come from a culture where your work is expected to speak for itself.This episode is not about changing who you are. It is about understanding the system you are operating in, so you can navigate it more effectively without losing your authenticity.If you are working in the U.S. or planning to, this conversation will help you avoid common misunderstandings, build stronger relationships, and feel more confident in your day-to-day interactions.You will also get a preview of what’s coming next as we shift back into financial topics, including the hidden costs of becoming an expat in America and how to better prepare for them.If you know another expat who is still figuring out meetings, emails, or workplace expectations, share this episode with them.Stay curious, stay open, and as always, keep exploring.In This Episode• Why meetings in the U.S. often start with small talk and what it really means • How indirect communication can lead to misunderstandings for expats • The “feedback sandwich” and how to interpret it correctly • Why being busy is often seen as a sign of commitment • How workplace hierarchy can feel informal but still carry real stakes • The importance of self-advocacy and visibility in American work culture • How to adapt without losing your authenticityWhat’s Coming Next• The hidden cost of becoming an expat in America • How lifestyle and financial decisions in the U.S. impact long-term outcomes • A return to tax and investment strategies with an expat-focused lensVisit Baobab Wealth AbroadBuy a copy of Jimmy's book, Divorce the IRSDownload our guide for foreign nationals in the USFollow us on FacebookSubscribe to us on YouTubeConnect with us on LinkedIn