Japanese Business Tips
Everybody knows that the future belongs to those who are good at technological inventions. The world runs on technology, and it will need more modern devices in the future. Humans just can’t get enough of the devices that help them get through the day. The first computer invented was a slow device, but it wasn’t just curiosity that led to many upgrades in it, it was also the wish of humans to have better things in life. Today, we have supercomputers, laptops, and tablets, so everyone can pick something that works for them. Even our smartphones are mini-computers that can do almost everything for their users.
Business in Japan:
Japan has quickly become a thriving market for businesses. It is one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world. Its citizens are also highly educated, which means companies can easily find qualified professionals to work for them. The work ethic is pretty great in this state. However, as beneficial as it can be to start a business in Japan, it isn’t a very straightforward process. Many foreign companies that tried their luck in this country failed. Some had to suffer significant losses in the beginning before they could get their footing.
Tips for Doing Business in Japan:
If you really wish to succeed in this country, then you must do your research about all aspects of its people’s lives. Once you know the land and its people properly, only then can you try to build a connection with them. Here are a few great tips for doing business in Japan:
- Business Cards are Important:
The Japanese value business cards like a talisman. There are a lot of rules surrounding them, which you must keep in mind when sharing or receiving them. For instance, if you are about to hand over someone your card, make sure the Japanese side is up. When you are handed over a card, go over it instead of putting it in your pocket immediately. If you put the card away instantly or write down notes on it, it will be considered rude.
- The Japanese Culture:
The few values of the culture have also made their way into the business world. For instance, the Japanese value maintaining their face. For them, their dignity is very important, and they stay calm even in the most chaotic situations. You must not do anything that will make your Japanese partners lose their face as they hate nothing more than that. In fact, you should also try to keep yourself calm and composed at all times.
- The Language Problem:
The people of this country are not very fluent in English. Most of them prefer to speak Japanese, and they expect their business partners to value their vernacular. This is why everyone should get one side of their business cards printed in Japanese. You should bring a qualified interpreter if you are going for a meeting with your native partners. And whenever there is a document to be used during a meeting, make sure to get it translated as soon as possible.
- Value the Seniors:
In Japan, age equals seniority, and the hierarchies are given a lot of importance. So, when you enter a meeting, make sure to greet the oldest person in the room first. Also, during discussions, don’t talk when two senior professionals are discussing something; otherwise, they will think of you as rude.
- Greeting Methods:
Personal space is something that the Japanese love, and it decides a critical aspect of the Japanese business etiquette: the greeting method. This is why no physical contact should be initiated by you. Although handshakes are acceptable in some parts of the country that are trying to become western, they are still a lot of regions where they are frowned upon. So, avoid handshakes and go for a bow instead. Keep your palms on your thighs and look down to do it in the right way. Your posture should also be formal at all times. Slumping gives the wrong message that you aren’t interested in the meeting or discussions.
- Appreciate the Silence:
In Japanese culture, the silence during discussions is used as a negotiation tactic. Do not let yourself get scared of it and definitely don’t think of as your defeat. Use the silence to your own advantage and take the proceedings from there once you understand the tactic. It will help you a lot during your time in this country if you learn to appreciate the silence instead of thinking it as a roadblock to your success.
Japan is a highly competitive and prosperous country. But you can’t fit in its environment if you are not willing to adapt to its culture and values. Getting to learn about the culture will help you see how fascinating it is and also assist you in the business world. You can confidently start your company in Japan once you have learned all about its corporate rules. If you follow the tips mentioned above, you will be able to achieve success a lot easily.
