The Language of Business in Japan

By Dan Hope

As globalization and the advance of technology shorten the distance between countries, many people have found themselves doing business with Japanese and needing to learn Japanese to communicate. This can be great for business, but only if you can impress clients or investors.

We’ve compiled a list of important things to remember while you learn Japanese so that the cultural divide won’t keep you from bridging the gap between businesses. Japanese and American cultures are so different that even the best American business etiquette can cause problems when working with Japanese. For instance, did you know that wrapping your kimono right over left symbolizes death, or that making the "okay" sign with your hand means “money” in Japan.

Presentation

For the Japanese, presentation is everything. In many cases, how you do something matters more that what you do. For instance, business suits are standard attire for any business relations, and the gift you choose to give isn’t as important as the style and quality of paper you wrap it in and the way you give it. Remember to give gifts at the end of a visit and never surprise the recipient with the gift. Always mention that you intend to give it earlier in the trip. Give and receive all gifts with both hands and do not open it unless the giver asks you to do so. And one final rule of gift giving: never give gifts in fours because the number is unlucky.

Apparel

You should also be conservative in how you express yourself. Large hand gestures will be confusing since they aren’t used as much in Japan. Similarly, it’s considered inappropriate to point or use wild facial gestures.

Teamwork

Japanese people also have a different work environment. In Japan, the good of the whole is more important than the individual, and as a result their business relations are often more team-based than American business. But on the other hand, Japanese are often introverted, valuing personal space highly. Public display of affection is also highly inappropriate.

Saying No

Perhaps the most famous characteristic of Japanese business is the tendency to avoid saying “no.” Japanese prefer to give long answers or even just respond with a yes rather than say no. This has resulted in many misunderstandings in the negotiation process, but it is critical to understand in order to do business successfully with the Japanese.

Obviously, this is just scratching the surface. There are many different things to learn about Japanese culture and Japanese business before you’ll become proficient. But do your homework and you’ll be fine. Plus you’ll have the added satisfaction of knowing that you’ll never have to take no as an answer.

Useful Phrases

If you need a quick guide to getting a working relationship started, refer to the list of common phrases below.

Ohayogozaimasu - Good morning (before 10:00am)

Konnichiwa - Good day (10:00am to 6:00pm)

Kombanwa - Good evening (after 6:00pm)

Hajimemashite - Hello, I am pleased to make your acquaintance (used only the first time you meet someone)

Watashi no namae wa Smith desu - My name is Smith (formal)

Smith desu – I am Smith (informal)

Domo arigato gozaimasu - Thank you

Onegaishimasu - If you please

Sumimasen - Excuse me

This is just the beginning of fluent Japanese business relations. Take a look at our review of Learn Japanese Software to find interactive programs that can help you master Japanese language and culture.

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