Japanese Business Culture Success Tips
Prepare For Japanese Etiquette

Learn 8 Major Success Tips for Japanese Business Culture most people fail to do.
Prepare for the Japanese Etiquette and achieve success in your business meeting.

It's not very different from the business etiquette in Europe or the US.

The difference arises because Japanese etiquette is more formal, and because Japanese body language is different in some aspects.

Before we start – check out my pages about non-verbal communication while doing business in Japan and the page about dining etiquette and Japanese table manners.

Some Of The Things You Can Expect About Japanese Business Etiquette

• Entertainment in Japan for businessmen after business hours includes a restaurant followed by a Karaoke bar or a 'hostess bar'.




• Drinking is an important part of Japanese culture. It is a way to reduce pressure. The word for toasting is kampai.




• You should never pour a drink for yourself. It is considered more appropriate in Japanese etiquette to allow someone else to do it for you.




• Japanese business culture puts a lot of emphasis on exchanging presents. Don't forget to bring along gifts for your hosts and some extra gifts for assistants, helpers and subordinates.




• The Japanese frown on open displays of affection. Do not pat anyone on the back. Do not make the first move for a hand shake if your Japanese colleague prefers bowing. More on Bowing and why you are not expected to bow.




• Always call your colleague by his last name and attach 'san'to the name.




• Sitting arrangements take a long time. Do not sit down until directed to your place.

The Special Japanese Manners For Business Cards

• Business cards are called Meishi and they are a big ceremony in Japan. Prepare by ordering inexpensive double-sided business cards printed in the Japanese language on one side and the English on the other side.
  You can order Business cards online. Make sure you take at least 100 for a 3-4 days business trip.




• Always present your business card holding it with both hands, Japanese-language side facing forward




• Always start by giving your business card to the most senior member of the Japanese party.




• Accept a Japanese business card using both hands, saying 'Thank you' and studying it in detail.




• Do not write on business cards you receive.




• Do not put the card immediately in your pocket or wallet. Put it on the table in front of you




• Take all the Japanese business cards you receive, don't leave any behind at the end of the meeting.

A Few More Success Tips for Japanese Business Culture

• In Japan, negotiation can be long and frustrating. Decisions are made only when every stage of the hierarchy gives their blessing to an agreement. Things move slowly!




• The word "no" does not exist in the Japanese language. The Japanese don't like to hurt other people's feelings so they are never straight forward. You will also have read between the lines as to the real meaning of what your Japanese colleagues are saying.<.li>

  
  

• You will always be meeting with a team and not an individual. Each one of the participants takes part in the final decision. so don't underestimate the young subordinates.

If you liked this page, please check out Life In Japanese Culture for Hints And Tips About The Japanese Way Of Life.
Learn things that will surprise you about the unique Japan culture. Read an Insider's point of view about the Japanese way of life.

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