Int Mktg

When doing business in a foreign country it is important to comply with the business etiquettes of that country. This text will briefly discuss some business etiquette aspects that might be useful during a business meeting with Japanese business partners.

Greeting

DO bow when meeting a Japanese business partner. Although some Japanese might know that bowing is not a custom for most western people and might offer a handshake instead, bowing is a common phenomenon for the Japanese. Bowing is a sign of respect, by bowing longer and deeper you show more respect.

DO NOT underestimate the importance of exchanging business cards and treating them with respect. Business cards are treated extremely respectful in Japan. When receiving a business card, accept the card with two hands and perhaps make a quick bow. Do not play with the card, fold it or write on it, study the card and carefully store it in a case. Handing out business cards is the same, hand them out with two hand and be sure that the business cards are good quality and are not folded or anything like that. When doing business in Japan you should have bilingual business cards, both English and Japanese translation of the text should be present. Since the business cards play such an important role in Japanese business it is also advisable to invest in them, make sure to use good materials, good design and a good overall quality.

Hierarchy

DO realize the importance of hierarchy in the Japanese culture. Hierarchy is very important in Japanese culture. When doing business with the Japanese make sure to know the hierarchy of the various persons and make sure to treat the people with the highest status with the most respect. Also try not to disagree with people with high hierarchical status as much as possible. Bonding is best done with people who have a similar status/level in the hierarchy as you have, since they are more likely to be comfortable talking to you.

Dress code

DO dress formally when...