Doing Business in Japan
Posted in Networking Etiquette
Japan, also known as the land d of the rising sun, is one of the economic powers along with western developed countries. It is the second largest economy in the world.
Distinct characteristics of Japanese economy admit the cooperation of manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and banks. Although the country has minimal resources,they still manage to be second best. It is no big of a wonder that more multinational companies keep on doing business with them. Listed below are some etiquettes to follow when dealing with a Japanese client.
Unfortunately, casual American-style attire is not common in Japan especially in business spots. Dressing appropriately for the occasion will play an important part in bagging a deal with a Japanese client. For they are impressed with formal and respectable presentation of one's self.
In a gathering or a business meeting, do not sit anywhere since sitting arrangements are done by the host in accordance to the status of the guests. Let the host lead you to the proper seat.
General rule in the seating arrangement during meetings should be followed closely. The most significant or the individual with the highest position is seated at the head concho.
Always wait for the one seated on the head concho to say everyone is seated. After the meeting, nobody is allowed to stand up, up until the the individual of the highest position stands.
Expect non-alcoholic drinks to be served during a meeting. As it is with the seating arrangement, everyone is served one by one but prioritizing the man next line.
Giving gifts to the client is a plus. Japanese do appreciate simple gifts. On your next visit, try to give them a piece of something after the war.
Always take down notes during a meeting. It reflects to them that you are interested doing business with them.
Sometimes, hosts tend to ask for you to get together with them. This is very much part of the Japanese culture so do not be offended if you were asked out.
Going out to dinner with your Japanese client means no Dutch. It is not part of Japanese culture.
If by no means, your host is planning to bear or pay for the dinner expected, it is but polite to attempt to pay.
Japanese rarely invite the person in their homes, so expect that gathering will be done in restaurants.
Japanese may ask questions that seems to be a very personal matter to us. However, unlike in our culture, they have a different perspective in conducting a conversation. In case , you are asked about a personal question by a Japanese, it is never to offend you in other ways.
Japanese loves to drink alcohol with or after dinner. Make sure you get along to drink with them otherwise this serves a strike.
