Cultural Awareness (Doing Business in Japan)

Business customs vary tremendously around the world and therefore, it is important to be culturally aware of the customs of that country so that you do not hinder potential business opportunities.  Because of many business opportunities in today’s world, many organizations are using globalization as a quick and innovative way to expand their business. 

The one important thing that one has to remember is that expansion in other countries comes with cultural challenges. Thus, it is important to know what is good and not good to do when it comes to ethical practices and business etiquette because every country is different.

Here are some important business tips when visiting Japan. 

Country:   Japan

Many people have heard of Japan but do not realize that it is located in East Asia, located in the Pacific Ocean. It’s a popular tourist attraction.

Greetings:

Tip #1: “How You Doing.”  In the U.S., a person is greeted by spoken words, a handshake, or sometimes a hug.  However, in Japan, bowing is the way to go when people greet each other and a way to say thanks, to apologize to someone, to ask someone for a favor, or to make a request.  It could be as simple as a small nodding of the head which is considered to be casual or very informal or the greeting could be a deep bending at the waist, which indicates respect.  What you have to remember is that what is not customary for bowing is putting one’s palms together at their chest level.  Some people in Japan also greet you by getting on their knees to bow on a tatami floor.  So, when visiting or doing Japan, make sure that you are familiar with greeting the Japanese.  You really don’t have to know all the proper rules for bowing but at least know that you can nod your head.  Also remember that handshakes are not popular but sometimes there are exceptions.

Attitudes towards work and success:

Tip #2: “Just Chill”.   When it comes to work, it is vital in the Japanese culture and they take tremendous pride in their work as well as doing their work. They are extremely proud of how their work turns out and will accept nothing less than perfect.  They take so much pride in their work that it can become a negative thing and work and is known as karoshi which literally means “death from overwork”.   They work extremely long hours and take very little time to vacation and enjoy the things of life.  Working extremely long hours has become a continuing problem.

Concept of time:   

Tip #3: “Don’t Be Late”.  In Japan, being on time is a really big deal.   These people are obsessed with punctuality. Not only are the trains known for being punctual, but the citizens of Japan are too.   Because people in Japan are very sensitive to time, they almost become anxious if it seems like they are about to be late to work or for appointments. Being on time for this culture is arriving at least 15 minutes earlier than their scheduled appointment. 

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