When opening business in a different country, it is essential to know its culture, tradition and etiquettes that are being practiced. With this, you will gain a profound and grounded way to a successful business. And Japan is a country that values respect for their culture and to their roots.
5 Things You Should Know about Business Culture
In this article, you will learn 5 things you should know about Japanese business culture should you be planning to expand your business in Japan. Read this and not only will you gain the trust of your Japanese partners but also an advantage to other foreign brands.
1. Group-oriented
Japanese likely to value the team. Contrary to most western countries who most likely believed in individualism, Japanese believe in the success of a team. So whether it is a failure or success, it is accredited and recognized to the whole group.
Be mindful of giving public credits for rather recognizing an individual. Instead, credit the entire team instead as it is much appreciated.
2. Seniority by age
Similarly to other Asian neighboring countries, Japan highly regarded and respected the old people and this is prominent in the business setting as well. Based on the age, it is best to treat the elderly with the same respect with the hierarchy of business rankings.
3. Silence is golden
Talking a lot may be normal in western business cultures but Japanese thinks otherwise. Being attentive and a good listener in the workplace will gain you good first impressions and will likely serve you better as an approach. Keep in mind to be silent and have a reserved approach when in a meeting with your Japanese partners. However, when you ask good questions in a careful manner, it may leave a good impression for it simply means you are paying attention and you are interested in the company.
4. The value of privacy
Another unique culture in Japan is privacy. It may be a norm to other countries to ask someone about their private and personal information as a way to get to know each other and build rapport. However in Japan, privacy is valuable. And if you are putting up your business in Japan, it is best to refrain from asking personal questions most especially in the first business meeting and only ask in response to a personal question from you.
5. Being Gentle
The confrontational approach may not work in a Japanese business culture. Instead of being upfront and a hard-sell, try to be gentle and calm when introducing a business plan or model. In the West, working under pressure and deadlines might be welcomed but Japanese work as a collective so instead, present a carefully laid-out business idea and action plans to successfully gain their approval.
Conclusion
What do you think of this business culture in Japan? Learning these business practices will give you an advantage to other foreign businesses. Let us know in the comments what you would like to learn more about Japan’s business cultures.
References:
https://nhglobalpartners.com/japan-business-culture-five-things-you-should-know/
https://livejapan.com/en/in-tokyo/in-pref-tokyo/in-tokyo_train_station/article-a0002470/
BY LA