1. Hierarchy & Leadership Style

Vietnam: Workplace culture is generally hierarchical. Employees show strong respect for seniority, and decisions are typically made at the top. Employees may be hesitant to openly challenge or question their superiors.
U.S.: Workplaces tend to be more egalitarian, with an emphasis on open communication. Employees are encouraged to voice their opinions, and leadership styles are often collaborative rather than strictly top-down.

2. Communication Style

Vietnam: Indirect communication is common. Employees may avoid direct confrontation or disagreement, preferring to maintain harmony. Criticism is often given in private and softened to avoid embarrassment.
U.S.: Communication is more direct. Employees are expected to express their thoughts openly, and constructive criticism is often given in a straightforward manner.

Vietnam: Long working hours are common, especially in private-sector jobs. Employees may work late without extra pay, and there is often an expectation of dedication beyond official working hours.
U.S.: While working long hours is common in some industries, there is a stronger emphasis on work-life balance, with laws regulating overtime pay. Many companies encourage employees to take time off.

Vietnam: Collectivism is strong, meaning teamwork and group success are prioritized over individual achievements. Employees often work in tightly knit teams and value harmony in the workplace.
U.S.: Individual achievements are more emphasized. Employees are often recognized and rewarded for their personal contributions, and competition among colleagues can be more pronounced.

Vietnam: Employees tend to value job stability and long-term employment with the same company. Job-hopping is becoming more common but is still not as frequent as in the U.S.
U.S.: Job mobility is much higher, and employees are more likely to switch jobs for better opportunities. Employers expect some turnover, and changing jobs frequently is not necessarily seen as negative.

Vietnam: Work environments tend to be more formal. Addressing colleagues by titles and pronouns is common, and social hierarchies influence workplace interactions.
U.S.: Workplaces are often more casual, with many companies encouraging a friendly atmosphere. It’s common for employees to address colleagues and even managers by their first names.

Vietnam: Salaries may be lower than in the U.S., but benefits like company-provided meals, transportation allowances, and team-building trips are common. Bonuses, especially Tet (Lunar New Year) bonuses, are a significant part of compensation. Besides, bonuses and gifts on special occasions such as Women’s Day, Mid-Autumn Festival, etc. are widely applied in majority of the companies.
U.S.: Higher salaries are common, but employees may need to negotiate benefits like healthcare, retirement plans, and paid leave, as they vary by employer.

Vietnam: Employees often rely on guidance from managers before making decisions. Risk-taking is generally lower, with a preference for proven methods.
U.S.: Employees are encouraged to take initiative and make independent decisions. Innovation and calculated risk-taking are valued, particularly in industries like tech and entrepreneurship.