Yes
A yes in the American context is far more the rule than exception. Americans almost instinctively say yes to assisting a colleague or to serving a customer. Reacting quickly with a no is interpreted as negative, unhelpful, uncooperative.
No
A no in the American context is far more the exception than the rule. Americans pride themselves on being a can-do people, of being open, helpful, good neighbors. They believe in cooperation and teamwork. Americans feel uncomfortable saying the word no.
Context
Because follow-up in the U.S. context is frequent, and because agreements can increase and decrease in priority, Americans enter into agreements quickly and without discussing their overall context in great detail.
Follow-up
Because Americans enter into many agreements and on a constant basis, follow-up is essential. It is how they maintain a common understanding of the status and priority of any given agreement. In many cases parties to an agreement arrange predetermined times to communicate with each other.
Deliverables
Americans expect the initial parts of a deliverable as quickly as possible. A partial deliverable early often meets the needs better than the complete product on time. The remaining parts of the deliverable are then supplied promptly. Speed is preferred to completeness.
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