Understanding Cultural Differences and Adapting to the Japanese Workplace

When working in Japan, it is very helpful to understand and adapt to the cultural differences between your own country and Japan.

This article will introduce you to the culture of the Japanese workplace.
It will certainly help you adapt to the Japanese workplace.

From communication and hierarchical relationships to work-life balance and etiquette, this article will explain more about the Japanese work environment.

About working in Japan

Why work in Japan?

Some people start working in Japan because they became interested in Japan through anime or manga, or because they worked with Japanese people in their home country and came to like the Japanese way of working, or because they are interested in Japan.
 
The reasons why they continue to work in Japan are as follows,

• Kindness of the people
• Clean city
• Convenient transportation and easy lifestyle
• Both urban and natural beauty to enjoy
• Excellent education for children

Many people choose to work here because they are attracted to the idea of living in Japan.

What problems do foreigners face in the Japanese workplace?

As in other countries, Japanese workplaces have their own culture and customs.
Some of these are unfamiliar to foreigners, so they may have some difficulty working there.

To adapt to the Japanese workplace culture, such as honorifics and hierarchical relationships, it is necessary to know what the Japanese workplace is like.

Japanese Characteristics Related to Workplace Culture

The Japanese National Identity

To understand Japanese workplace culture, let us first look at national identity.
The Japanese national identity is said to be characterized by several characteristics, such as being polite, working in groups, and having a lot of patience.
These national characteristics are also reflected in Japanese workplace culture.

About Hierarchical Relationships in Japan

Hierarchical relationships are respected in Japan.
Not only age, but also position is considered hierarchical.
For example, even if you are the same age, if you are the boss, you need to speak to them in honorific language.

Decisions within the company are often made in a top-down, with the person with the higher position making the decisions.

This culture can create perception gaps and difficulties for those who are accustomed to equality between superiors and subordinates in the workplace.
It is important to fully understand this hierarchical relationship and act accordingly.

How to Communicate in the Japanese Workplace

Indirect Communication

In the Japanese workplace, indirect language is often used to communicate.
This is because Japanese people sometimes find it rude to say what they think directly.

For example, instead of saying, "私は嫌いです(I dislike it),"
they say, "私はあまり好きじゃないです(I don't like it very much)”.

In the Japanese work environment, it is also important to say what you think indirectly through your facial expressions and the way you say it.

How to deal with superiors

The Japanese work culture values hierarchical relationships.
Position (title) is respected, and in many cases, new decisions are made by those in higher positions.

When working in a Japanese organization, it is important to be aware of proper etiquette when interacting with superiors.
Understanding the structure of the organization will help you communicate smoothly in the workplace.

Work-Life Balance in Japan

Long working hours

Some people may think that long working hours and stress are the norm in Japan, so much so that "karoshi" (death from overwork) is well known.
Rest assured that not all workplaces have long working hours.
Most companies try to avoid long working hours.

Manage your work-life balance

It may seem difficult, but balancing work and personal life is possible in the Japanese work environment.

You can maintain a healthy work-life balance by taking advantage of company-approved leave and by practicing good self-care.
Finding someone to talk to when you are stressed at work will also help you manage your work-life balance.
 
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About Work Organization in Japan

Cooperation is important

When working in Japan, it is also important to build good relationships with colleagues and supervisors.
Many workplaces value cooperation.
By establishing good relationships with the people who you work with, you will find it easier to communicate with each other.
Even if it takes time, try to understand your colleagues' perspectives and ideas.

Working in teams

In Japanese organizations, work is often done in groups such as teams or departments.
Instead of relying on the opinions of individuals, decisions are made by several people.
Because everyone's opinions and ideas are considered, it often takes time to reach a decision.
When attending a meeting, it is a good idea to keep this type of format in mind.
Listen carefully and speak actively so that decisions can be made.

Business Manners in Japan

Greetings and manners

When it comes to business etiquette in Japan, the first thing you should learn is how to greet people.
When greeting colleagues and supervisors in Japan, it is polite to bow.
You should also be careful during meetings.

The basic rule is to arrive a few minutes early so that the meeting can start on time.
By observing these manners, you will make a good impression on those with whom you work.

Points to consider when exchanging business cards

When meeting customers as an employee, business cards may be exchanged along with introductions.

In Japan, exchanging business cards is an important way to establish a business relationship.
When exchanging business cards, you should hold your card in both hands at a lower level than the other person.

When receiving the other person's business card, say, "ちょうだいいたします”(I will receive your card.).
If you have enough time, it is a good idea to read the other person's business card to start a small conversation.

How to fit in well in a Japanese work environment

How can you successfully integrate into the Japanese work environment?

Adjusting to a new work environment can be difficult, especially when there are cultural differences.
It is important to be flexible and positive when adapting to a different cultural environment, not just in Japan.
Take time to learn the customs and work practices of your workplace and adapt to the environment accordingly.
Building good relationships with your co-workers and asking them to teach you is also a shortcut to adapting quickly.

Seek advice from your seniors and colleagues

Whenever you have a problem or are unsure about something, do not hesitate to ask your seniors or colleagues for advice.
Even if you are not in the workplace, it may be a good idea to ask someone around you for advice.
They will be able to give you valuable advice about working in Japan.

Last but not least

Adjusting to a new job may take some effort.

However, it can be a good experience.
To adapt to the workplace culture in any country, not just Japan, it is important to understand and be open to cultural differences.

Remember to respect the new culture you encounter, build good relationships, and seek support from others when necessary.
If you are aware of these things, you will have a rewarding work experience in Japan or any other country.