Moto: Coming to America from Japan

Case Study 3

Moto: Coming to America from Japan

1) Moto’s purpose for his first meeting with Crowell was to begin the process of hiring a contracting company and checking the pricing details for a project his Japanese employer was looking to build in America. His agenda for the meeting was to introduce himself, and get off on the right foot if you will, with the company his employers spent over a year researching. He tried to implement his agenda by confirming the appointment the night before, showing up on time, handing over his card for proper introduction, and even bringing along a thoughtful gift.

2) There were many communication problems between Moto and Crowell. Considering the fact that Japanese and American cultures are very different, this isn’t too surprising. As soon as Moto entered the office, Crowell stood up to greet him, asked him “how are you?” yet immediately continued with “long trip…. Take a seat”, not giving Moto a chance to answer. Another big communication issue was the exchange of business cards. Moto was proud of his hard work and accomplishments that were shown on the card, yet Crowell didn’t even look at it and put it in his pocket. When Crowell handed his card to Moto however, Moto respectfully read it aloud and placed it on the table right in front of him. Crowell later asked Moto what his first name was, which he would have known had he read his business card. One last initial communication problem was the way in which Moto spoke. His spoke his English slowly, which seemed to make Crowell impatient which is when he rudely interrupted him.

3) The kokeshi dolls were intended as a thoughtful gift meant for Crowell. His wife spent much of her day one day picking them out for her husband to bring on his trip. The significance of the dolls was that they were made from a special maple in the mountains near Moto’s home. Moto learned that Crowell was also from a “holly, snowy place” (Vermont), and Moto...