Business Etiquette in Japan: What Every Foreigner Should Know

Japan has many cultures and traditions.
Furthermore, do you know that there is a business manner unique to Japan?
This article introduces Japanese business etiquette.

The importance of understanding business etiquette

When working abroad, there may be cultural differences that can go wrong.
And it is not different when we are talking about Japan.
Japanese culture has particular values and manners that are new to foreigners.
Knowing the cultural differences can prevent mistakes and problems.
It's the same in business as well as in daily life.
If you are going to work abroad, it is important to understand the business etiquette of that country.
By understanding and acting with good manners, you can show respect and make a good impression on the person you are conversing with or greeting.

Japanese values related to business manners

Value harmony

Harmony is valued in Japanese society.
Harmony is a state of being well integrated without conflict.
 
The same is true in business situations. For example, when making decisions.
We exchange opinions with an emphasis on harmony. Rather than being biased toward one person's opinion, an opinion that everyone can agree on is often chosen.

Respect hierarchical relationships

In the Japanese workplace, hierarchical relationships are valued.
For example, there is a hierarchical relationship of "senior" (“senpai”, more experienced or older) and "junior" (“kouhai”, less experienced or younger).
When speaking to a senior or someone with a higher position, use honorifics.
No "casual language" or “tame-guchi” (language spoken between friends).

Business Etiquettes you should know

Nod

Japanese people have the habit of nodding when the other person is speaking.
When speaking during a meeting or in an interview, the listener nods his or her head.
 
This is a sign that means that they are listening to you.
Ignored?" You may think, "Are they ignoring me? But rest assured, it is a signal that you are listening to what they are saying.

Bowing

When greeting in Japan, people do not shake hands but bow.
Actually, bowing is not just bowing. The angle of the bow is changed according to the situation in which it is performed.

Here are three types of bowing.
 
会釈　

This is a bow done in a light greeting. Bend your body about 15 degrees.

普通礼

This is a common bow used when thanking someone or exchanging business cards. The body is bent at a 30 to 35 degree angle.

最敬礼

This is the bow you do when apologizing. Bend your body about 45 to 60 degrees.
 
The purpose of each of these bows is different.
Please understand the difference and be careful not to bail when apologizing.

Exchange of business cards

In the Japanese business world, when you meet someone from another company or a customer for the first time, you exchange profile cards called "business cards.
Anyone who works in a customer-facing business should always learn about exchanging business cards!

While it may take some getting used to, just exchanging business cards may be all you can do, but greet and introduce yourself with a smile while exchanging business cards.
If you are not comfortable exchanging business cards, ask a senior staff member to practice!

Manners at meetings

Punctuality of start time

If you are attending a meeting in Japan, keep to the start time.
Many people arrive a few minutes earlier (3 to 5 minutes) than the start time to get ready.
It is a manner that is valued in the sense that it does not take up other people's time.
Also, be sure to review the materials and agenda in advance.

Behavior during meetings

During the meeting, turn your body and eyes toward the person speaking and listen carefully.
Nodding and taking notes show that you are interested in what they have to say.
Also, do not speak when others are speaking; wait your turn to speak.
If you have questions, ask them after the presenter has finished speaking.

How decisions are made and agreed upon

In the Japanese workplace, decisions are often made by more than one person.
It is often possible to combine everyone's opinions and ideas to come up with something that is good for everyone and that everyone can agree on.
Therefore, it may take some time before a decision is made.

Conclusion

It is very important to respect and accept manners and courtesy.
It is the same in every country, not just Japan.
 
Japanese business etiquette may be complicated. However, if you work in Japan, it is better to know it.
Build trust with your colleagues and customers through business etiquette!