When doing business in Japan, it’s crucial to show interests in your business partners, another way to show them your attention to detail and dedication to the partnership. A persian poet once said, “A traveller without observation is a bird without wings.” Being observant and attentive leads to successful business dealings.
Business Culture and Etiquette in Japanese way
In this article, we will introduce 5 Japanese cultures and etiquette when meeting with your japanese business partners. It is important to know this especially if it’s your first time. Japanese are big in showing politeness and respect so impress them to win their friendship and approval.
Greeting
They say the first impression lasts so be sure to bow to your japanese partners as a greeting. You can also do a handshake but if they greet you with a bow first, be sure to respond in the same manner as well. Also, bow from waist to angle between 30 to 45 degrees and finally don’t hold eye contact while bowing because it is considered bad manners.
Dress Code
Dress formally because appearance is important and conservative in most Japanese business settings. Wear your business attire suit as you would expect from your western business associates. Jewellery can be worn but minimally.
Politeness
Respect and politeness coincides when doing business and this is most essential to the Japanese. Be sure to treat with respect even the youngest attendant in the company. It is important to display a good attitude when doing business in Japan in the long run.
Business Cards
In some countries, business cards may just be an information but in Japan when you receive one, you need to treat it like it’s an extension of the person. Give and receive business cards with both hands with an exchanged bow. And once you have your partner’s business card, review it and at least comment about it. Keep the cards in a secured case and you can carry it along during your business trips.
Showing interests
Showing interest and knowledge in your business partner if not important, is impressive. You need to do research with the company and to your business partner in advance. And finally, asking questions and taking a lot of notes during your business meeting is a big plus to Japanese because they will greatly appreciate it.
Conclusion
Which do you think is the most important business culture and etiquette in Japan? Do you think there are similarities in your respective country? Let us know in the comments below what you think of this list.
References:
https://www.eubusinessinjapan.eu/culture/business-culture
BY LA