Business Etiquette Tips for Japanese-Speaking Countries

With an economy second only to the United States, Japan is a major player in today’s business world. Japan one of the world’s hubs for international business transactions. Business people from around the world are constantly working to establish partners, develop new clients and build a network of colleagues in Japan.
 
When building and fostering business relationships with your Japanese colleagues, practicing proper business etiquette is very important. Refusing to learn about, and adhere to, traditional Japanese business etiquette could offend your potential colleagues and even cost you a business venture.
 
By taking the time to learn about Japanese business etiquette practices, you will be able build a business relationship with your colleagues founded in mutual respect.

The Role of Japanese Culture in Proper Japanese Business Etiquette

Many of the rules of Japanese business etiquette are shaped by the traditional values respected by the Japanese. Traditional Japanese values include:
  • conviction
  • loyalty
  • respect for authority
  • structureteam work.
These traditional values translate into the business world in many ways. To honor these Japanese values, as well as foster a relationship based on respect, you may want to consider the following Japanese business etiquette tips:
  • Bring a team of colleagues with you in order to answer any and all questions your foreign associates may have.
  • Bring informational company documents and have them translated into Japanese. This will establish your legitimacy and credibility as well as demonstrate your willingness to overcome language barriers.
  • Do not be alarmed if your Japanese colleagues are silent for long periods of time or close their eyes during a meeting. This shows they are thinking critically about something.
  • If you are not fluent in Japanese, hire a Japanese interpreter. This will make conversation easier, as well as indicate that you are willing to go the extra mile to do business with your Japanese colleagues.

Business Meeting Etiquette in Japan

Proper Japanese business meeting etiquette is strict, and in many cases it differs significantly from business etiquette of other Asian countries. Some business etiquette tips to help you interact with your Japanese colleagues include:
  • Before beginning a meeting, first exchange business cards. Be sure to have a Japanese translation of your card on its opposite side, as this shows your respect for your Japanese colleagues as well as your willingness to overcome language barriers. When handing out your card, bow slightly, and be sure to present it with the Japanese translation face-up and forward.
  • Do not use language that could be considered abrasive or offensive. The Japanese value and trust business people who present themselves as reverent, appeasing and humble. Being confrontational, openly disagreeing with an associate and putting people on the spot are considered rude and offensive and will make a bad impression on your Japanese colleagues.
  • If you are unfamiliar with a Japanese colleague’s name, ask how it is traditionally pronounced. If possible, refer to the business cards you have been given (which can be placed in front of you for reference) during the meeting.
  • Prepare yourself for, and answer, direct questions, such as "What is your salary?" or "How much did you pay for that?" In order to fully familiarize themselves with colleagues, Japanese businesspeople tend to be direct in their questioning and expect forward responses.

Do not be offended at such questions, as they are not considered rude in Japan. If you are not comfortable giving a direct answer to a personal question, respond graciously.