Japan is well known for its unique culture and traditions. The two most important elements of Japanese business etiquette are politeness and sensitivity. Here, business etiquette functions more formally unlike in the West. Japan has specific rules for interacting with customers and in all other social situations.
Gain the necessary knowledge and skills regarding Japanese business etiquette in this article and enter the Japanese business world with confidence. Learning essential Japanese etiquette and manners will help you on your Japan study tour or business trip.
Essential Japanese Business Etiquette
If you are to learn lean management techniques from Japanese companies, first you will need to learn their business etiquette. Follow these etiquettes to create the most favourable impression of you and your business.
Bowing
Shaking hands is quite common in Western culture but in Japan, people bow. But if the person in front shakes hands, then some Japanese follow it. When bowing, you must follow the way they do it. Straighten your back and bend the entire body from the hip joint.
This gives a clean look and shows respect to the other person showing perfect business etiquette.
Presenting Business Cards
Presenting business cards is another important element of the Japanese corporate culture. They present their business cards with both of their hands, keep their face up, and make sure to face the person while receiving the card.
While receiving a business card, you need to accept it with both hands and review it in detail. Receive the other person’s business card with respect. Never write down anything on the card when you are in front of them.
Business Attires
Japanese people wear very formal business attire. While conducting any business meeting or while going to the office, Japanese men wear white shirts and muted ties with dark suits.
The same colour code applies to women as well. Japanese women wear either pantsuits or long skirts and suits. Both of them are acceptable in business meetings and offices.
Remove Shoes in Temples and Restaurants
Another important etiquette that the Japanese follow is removing their shoes while entering any temple or restaurant. This is strictly necessary for places that disallow shoes like temples and restaurants.
If you are in doubt, follow other Japanese people in this regard. However, you cannot walk barefoot after opening your shoes. Pack with you a set of white socks so that you do not have to expose your bare feet.
There are other business etiquettes that the Japanese culture follows. The best thing to do here is to remain polite as much as possible and follow your host’s guidance. If you are entering into new business relationships with a Japanese company, you can take the help of our programs and seminars on Japanese business etiquette.
Give yourself some time to learn these customs before your visit to Japan. Then, you can get accustomed to the country’s values and get the best business outcomes.
