Difference between revisions of "Language/Japanese/Culture/Japanese-Business-and-Work-Culture"

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<div class="pg_page_title">[[Language/Japanese|Japanese]]  → [[Language/Japanese/Culture|Culture]] → [[Language/Japanese/Grammar/0-to-A1-Course|0 to A1 Course]] → Japanese Business and Work Culture</div>
In today's lesson, we will explore the fascinating world of '''Japanese business and work culture'''. Understanding this unique culture is essential not only for conducting business in Japan but also for developing meaningful relationships and effective communication in a professional environment. This lesson is especially pertinent for English-speaking learners who wish to engage with Japanese colleagues or clients, and it will enhance your overall understanding of Japanese society.
Throughout this lesson, we will cover the following key topics:


<div class="pg_page_title">Japanese Culture → Politics and Society → Japanese Business and Work Culture</div>
* The importance of hierarchy and respect in Japanese business
 
* Common business customs and etiquette
 
* Vocabulary and expressions used in the corporate world
 
* Examples of typical workplace scenarios
 
* Exercises to practice your newly acquired knowledge
 
By the end of this lesson, you will not only have a clearer understanding of the nuances of Japanese business culture but also be equipped with practical vocabulary and phrases to navigate through your professional interactions in Japan.


__TOC__
__TOC__


As a long-time Japanese language teacher, I have always been fascinated by the unique aspects of Japanese business and work culture. It is no secret that the Japanese approach to work stands out among other cultures. From the language used in the corporate world to the etiquette observed during business meetings, there is much to learn about Japanese business and work culture. In this lesson, we will delve into the vocabulary and expressions used in the corporate world and examine the customs and practices that make Japanese work culture so unique.  
=== The Importance of Hierarchy and Respect ===
 
In Japan, hierarchy plays a crucial role in business settings. The concept of '''"senpai-kohai" (先輩後輩)''', or senior-junior relationships, is deeply ingrained in the workplace. Understanding this hierarchy is essential for effective communication and collaboration.
 
* '''Senpai (先輩)''': This term refers to someone who is senior or has more experience in a particular field. They are expected to guide and mentor their juniors.
 
* '''Kohai (後輩)''': This term refers to someone junior or less experienced. They are expected to show respect and deference to their seniors.
 
This relationship is characterized by mutual obligations and respect, which helps create a harmonious work environment. Here are some expressions commonly used in this context:
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
! Japanese !! Pronunciation !! English
 
|-
 
| 先輩 (せんぱい) || senpai || senior, mentor
 
|-
 
| 後輩 (こうはい) || kohai || junior, mentee
 
|-
 
| お世話になります (おせわになります) || osewa ni narimasu || Thank you for your support (used when receiving help)
 
|-
 
| ご指導いただきありがとうございます (ごしどういただきありがとうございます) || go shidō itadaki arigatou gozaimasu || Thank you for your guidance
 
|}
 
=== Common Business Customs and Etiquette ===
 
Japanese business culture is rich in customs that may seem unfamiliar to outsiders. Adhering to these customs is essential for building trust and respect. Here are some key points to consider:
 
1. '''Polite Greetings''': The Japanese value politeness, and greetings are an essential part of business interactions. The standard greeting is a bow, which varies in depth depending on the level of respect you wish to convey. Handshakes are also common, especially when interacting with foreigners.
 
2. '''Business Cards (名刺, めいし)''': Exchanging business cards is a significant ritual in Japan. When you receive a card, treat it with great respect. Hold it with both hands and take a moment to read it before putting it away.
 
3. '''Meeting Etiquette''': Punctuality is highly valued in Japan. Arriving late to a meeting can be seen as disrespectful. Additionally, it is customary to wait for the highest-ranking person to begin the meeting.
 
4. '''Consensus Decision-Making''': Japanese companies often practice consensus-based decision-making (合意形成, ごういけいせい). This means that decisions are made collectively, and input from various levels of the organization is encouraged.
 
5. '''Formal Communication''': Use formal language, especially when addressing superiors or clients. The Japanese language has different levels of politeness, so it's important to choose your words carefully.
 
Here are some useful phrases to remember:
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
! Japanese !! Pronunciation !! English
 
|-
 
| おはようございます (おはようございます) || ohayou gozaimasu || Good morning
 
|-
 
| こんにちは (こんにちは) || konnichiwa || Good afternoon
 
|-
 
| こんばんは (こんばんは) || konbanwa || Good evening
 
|-


| よろしくお願いします (よろしくおねがいします) || yoroshiku onegaishimasu || Please treat me well (used when requesting a favor)


<span link>Once you've mastered this lesson, take a look at these related pages: [[Language/Japanese/Culture/Traditional-and-Modern-Science-and-Technology|Traditional and Modern Science and Technology]] & [[Language/Japanese/Culture/Traditional-Arts-and-Customs|Traditional Arts and Customs]].</span>
|-
== Japanese Corporate Vocabulary ==


To be able to understand Japanese business culture, it's important to be familiar with the words and expressions used in the corporate world. Below are some essential vocabulary words that you need to know when conducting business in Japan:
| 失礼いたします (しつれいいたします) || shitsurei itashimasu || Excuse me (used when entering or leaving a meeting)
 
|}
 
=== Vocabulary and Expressions Used in the Corporate World ===
 
To communicate effectively in a Japanese business setting, it is important to familiarize yourself with specific vocabulary and expressions. Here are some essential terms and phrases:


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Japanese !! Pronunciation !! English
! Japanese !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
| 会社 (かいしゃ) || kaisha || company
|-
| 社長 (しゃちょう) || shachou || company president
|-
|-
| 会社  || kaisha || Company
 
| 部長 (ぶちょう) || buchou || department head
 
|-
|-
| 部署  || busho || Department
 
| 同僚 (どうりょう) || dōryō || colleague
 
|-
|-
| 上司  || jōshi || Boss/supervisor
 
| 取引先 (とりひきさき) || torihikisaki || client, business partner
 
|-
 
| 会議 (かいぎ) || kaigi || meeting
 
|-
|-
| 同僚  || dōryō || Colleague
 
| 提案 (ていあん) || teian || proposal
 
|-
 
| 契約 (けいやく) || keiyaku || contract
 
|-
 
| 経営 (けいえい) || keiei || management
 
|-
 
| 給料 (きゅうりょう) || kyūryō || salary
 
|}
 
=== Examples of Typical Workplace Scenarios ===
 
Understanding common workplace scenarios can help you navigate the business environment more effectively. Here are some examples:
 
1. '''Introducing Yourself''':
 
* Japanese: 初めまして。私の名前はジョンです。よろしくお願いします。
 
* Pronunciation: Hajimemashite. Watashi no namae wa Jon desu. Yoroshiku onegaishimasu.
 
* English: Nice to meet you. My name is John. Please treat me well.
 
2. '''In a Meeting''':
 
* Japanese: この提案について、意見を伺いたいです。
 
* Pronunciation: Kono teian ni tsuite, iken wo ukagaitai desu.
 
* English: I would like to hear your opinions on this proposal.
 
3. '''Discussing a Project''':
 
* Japanese: このプロジェクトの進捗はいかがですか？
 
* Pronunciation: Kono purojekuto no shinchoku wa ikagadesu ka?
 
* English: How is the progress of this project?
 
4. '''Giving Feedback''':
 
* Japanese: あなたのプレゼンテーションはとても良かったです。
 
* Pronunciation: Anata no purezentēshon wa totemo yokatta desu.
 
* English: Your presentation was very good.
 
5. '''Making Requests''':
 
* Japanese: この書類を明日までに提出していただけますか？
 
* Pronunciation: Kono shorui wo ashita made ni teishutsu shite itadakemasu ka?
 
* English: Could you please submit this document by tomorrow?
 
6. '''Addressing a Senior''':
 
* Japanese: 先輩、アドバイスをいただけますか？
 
* Pronunciation: Senpai, adobaisu wo itadakemasu ka?
 
* English: Senior, could you give me some advice?
 
7. '''Negotiating''':
 
* Japanese: お互いにとって良い条件を見つけましょう。
 
* Pronunciation: Otagai ni totte yoi jōken wo mitsukemashou.
 
* English: Let's find favorable terms for both of us.
 
8. '''Expressing Gratitude''':
 
* Japanese: ご協力いただき、ありがとうございます。
 
* Pronunciation: Go kyōryoku itadaki, arigatou gozaimasu.
 
* English: Thank you for your cooperation.
 
9. '''Ending a Meeting''':
 
* Japanese: 本日はお忙しい中、ありがとうございました。
 
* Pronunciation: Honjitsu wa oisogashii naka, arigatou gozaimashita.
 
* English: Thank you for your time today.
 
10. '''Discussing Future Plans''':
 
* Japanese: 次回の会議でお会いしましょう。
 
* Pronunciation: Jikai no kaigi de oai shimashou.
 
* English: Let's meet at the next meeting.
 
=== Exercises and Practice Scenarios ===
 
Now that you have a good understanding of Japanese business culture and vocabulary, let’s put your knowledge to the test. Below are some exercises designed to reinforce what you've learned.
 
==== Exercise 1: Vocabulary Matching ====
 
Match the Japanese terms with their English translations.
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
! Japanese !! English
 
|-
|-
| お客様  || okyakusama || Customer/client
 
| 会社 || a. colleague
 
|-
|-
| 交渉  || kōshō || Negotiation
 
| 社長 || b. business partner
 
|-
|-
| 契約  || keiyaku || Contract
 
| 同僚 || c. salary
 
|-
|-
| 発表  || happyō || Presentation
 
| 取引先 || d. company
 
|-
|-
| 請求書  || seikyūsho || Invoice
 
| 給料 || e. company president
 
|}
|}


== Japanese Work Etiquette ==
* '''Answers''':
 
* 会社 - d
 
* 社長 - e
 
* 同僚 - a
 
* 取引先 - b
 
* 給料 - c
 
==== Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks ====
 
Complete the sentences with the correct vocabulary.
 
1. おはようございます、私の名前は______です。 (Answer: your name)
 
2. この______はとても重要です。 (Answer: proposal)
 
3. 明日の会議で______をお話ししましょう。 (Answer: progress)
 
* '''Answers''':
 
1. ジョン (or your name)
 
2. 提案
 
3. 進捗
 
==== Exercise 3: Role Play ====
 
Pair up with a partner and practice introducing yourselves in a business setting. Use the following template:
 
* 初めまして。私の名前は______です。______部で働いています。よろしくお願いします。
 
* '''Expected Responses''':
 
Each person should fill in their name and department.
 
==== Exercise 4: Scenario Discussion ====
 
Discuss the following scenario with a partner: You are in a meeting and you need to provide feedback on a colleague’s presentation. How would you express your thoughts politely?
 
* '''Expected Expression''':


Japanese work culture stems from traditional Japanese customs and values such as respect for authority, teamwork, and hard work. It's important to understand these values when working with Japanese colleagues or clients. Below are some basic etiquette rules that you should follow when conducting business in Japan:
You can say, "あなたのプレゼンテーションはとても良かったです。特に______が印象に残りました。" (Fill in with a specific point).


* Dress Code: Japanese business attire is typically conservative, and business suits in dark colors are the norm. Men are expected to wear a tie, and women should avoid wearing any revealing clothing or excessive makeup.
==== Exercise 5: Business Card Exchange ====


* Punctuality: Time is highly valued in Japan, so it’s important to arrive at meetings and appointments on time or a few minutes early. Being late is considered rude and disrespectful.
Practice the proper way to exchange business cards with a partner. Remember to use both hands and take a moment to read the card.


* Business Card Exchange: Exchanging business cards, or meishi, is a common practice in Japan. Make sure to present your card with both hands and bow slightly when receiving someone else’s card. Take a moment to read the card, and never write on or fold it.
==== Exercise 6: Listening Comprehension ====


* Meeting Protocol: Meetings typically begin with a formal greeting, followed by small talk to build rapport. During the meeting, listen intently to the speaker, and avoid interrupting or contradicting them.
Listen to a recorded conversation in Japanese about a business meeting, then answer the following questions:


* Gift Giving: Gift giving is a common practice in Japan as a way to show respect and appreciation. It's always a good idea to bring a small gift, such as sweets or a small souvenir, to a meeting. Present the gift with both hands and express your gratitude.
1. What is the main topic of discussion?


== Japanese Work Style ==
2. Who are the participants?


Japanese work style differs from Western work style in various ways. Here are some interesting facts to help you understand the Japanese work style:
* '''Expected Answers''':  


* Overtime Culture: Long working hours are a norm in Japan, and unpaid overtime work is expected in many companies. Some employees even have a term for death due to overwork called karōshi.
Answers will depend on the content of the recording.


* Group Harmony: In Japan, the team takes precedence over individual interests. Japanese believe that a harmonious team leads to better productivity and quality of work.
==== Exercise 7: Writing Practice ====


* Use of Titles: Japanese business culture gives utmost importance to titles and rank. Addressing someone by their title and name is a way of showing respect.
Write a short email to a colleague thanking them for their support on a recent project. Use polite expressions and incorporate vocabulary from the lesson.


* Confucianism Influence: Confucianism, a Chinese philosophy that emphasizes ethics and morality, has had a great impact on Japanese work culture. Confucian values like hard work, respect for authority, and loyalty to the group are highly valued in Japan.
* '''Expected Response''':  


* Business Trips: Japanese companies often require their employees to travel for business trips, even for short distances. Business trips are considered an opportunity to build relationships and network with clients and colleagues.
An email should include expressions like "ご協力いただき、ありがとうございます。" and "次回もよろしくお願いします。"


Now that you have learned about Japanese business and work culture, you will be better equipped to communicate and conduct business with Japanese colleagues and clients. Remember that understanding cultural values and customs is a crucial part of building successful relationships in business.
==== Exercise 8: Translate the Sentences ====


<span class='maj'></span>
Translate the following sentences into Japanese:
==Sources==
 
* [https://www.businessinsider.com/differences-between-japanese-and-american-work-culture-2018-3 5 Ways Japanese Work Culture Is Drastically Different From the US]
1. "I would like to hear your opinions on this proposal."
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_work_environment Japanese work environment - Wikipedia]
 
* [https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/japanese-culture/japanese-culture-business-culture Japanese Culture - Business Culture — Cultural Atlas]
2. "Thank you for your guidance."
 
* '''Expected Translations''':
 
1. この提案について、意見を伺いたいです。
 
2. ご指導いただきありがとうございます。
 
==== Exercise 9: Hierarchy Discussion ====
 
Discuss with your partner the importance of hierarchy in Japanese business culture. Share your thoughts on how it differs from your own culture.
 
* '''Expected Discussion Points''':  
 
Responses will vary based on personal experiences.
 
==== Exercise 10: Group Presentation ====
 
In small groups, prepare a brief presentation on a business topic of your choice. Use Japanese vocabulary and expressions from the lesson.
 
* '''Expected Outcomes''':  
 
Presentations should incorporate learned vocabulary and demonstrate understanding of Japanese business etiquette.
 
By engaging with these exercises, you'll not only solidify your understanding of Japanese business culture but also become more confident in using the language.
 
In conclusion, understanding Japanese business and work culture is essential for anyone looking to engage with Japan's professional landscape. By learning the customs, vocabulary, and expressions, you are taking a significant step towards effective and respectful communication.


{{#seo:
{{#seo:
|title=Japanese Culture → Politics and Society → Japanese Business and Work Culture
 
|keywords=Japanese business, Japanese work culture, Japanese work style, Japanese corporate vocabulary, karoshi
|title=Japanese Business and Work Culture  
|description=Learn about the unique Japanese business and work culture, and the vocabulary and expressions used in the corporate world. Explore the customs and practices that make Japanese work culture so unique.
 
|keywords=Japanese business culture, workplace etiquette, Japanese vocabulary, business phrases, cultural understanding
 
|description=In this lesson, you will learn about the unique aspects of Japanese business culture, including vocabulary, customs, and practical scenarios to improve your communication skills in a professional setting.
 
}}
}}


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==Videos==
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===Japanese Business Culture and Etiquette - YouTube===
===Japanese Business Culture and Etiquette - YouTube===
<youtube>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glrsaebcZJI</youtube>
<youtube>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glrsaebcZJI</youtube>
==Sources==
* [https://www.businessinsider.com/differences-between-japanese-and-american-work-culture-2018-3 5 Ways Japanese Work Culture Is Drastically Different From the US]
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_work_environment Japanese work environment - Wikipedia]
* [https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/japanese-culture/japanese-culture-business-culture Japanese Culture - Business Culture — Cultural Atlas]


==Other Lessons==
==Other Lessons==
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* [[Language/Japanese/Culture/Popular-Culture-and-Entertainment|Popular Culture and Entertainment]]
* [[Language/Japanese/Culture/Popular-Culture-and-Entertainment|Popular Culture and Entertainment]]
* [[Language/Japanese/Culture/Social-Issues-and-Controversies|Social Issues and Controversies]]
* [[Language/Japanese/Culture/Social-Issues-and-Controversies|Social Issues and Controversies]]


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Latest revision as of 23:31, 31 July 2024

◀️ Social Issues and Controversies — Previous Lesson

Japan-flag-Japanese-Lessons-PolyglotClub.png
Japanese → Culture → 0 to A1 Course → Japanese Business and Work Culture

In today's lesson, we will explore the fascinating world of Japanese business and work culture. Understanding this unique culture is essential not only for conducting business in Japan but also for developing meaningful relationships and effective communication in a professional environment. This lesson is especially pertinent for English-speaking learners who wish to engage with Japanese colleagues or clients, and it will enhance your overall understanding of Japanese society.

Throughout this lesson, we will cover the following key topics:

  • The importance of hierarchy and respect in Japanese business
  • Common business customs and etiquette
  • Vocabulary and expressions used in the corporate world
  • Examples of typical workplace scenarios
  • Exercises to practice your newly acquired knowledge

By the end of this lesson, you will not only have a clearer understanding of the nuances of Japanese business culture but also be equipped with practical vocabulary and phrases to navigate through your professional interactions in Japan.

The Importance of Hierarchy and Respect[edit | edit source]

In Japan, hierarchy plays a crucial role in business settings. The concept of "senpai-kohai" (先輩後輩), or senior-junior relationships, is deeply ingrained in the workplace. Understanding this hierarchy is essential for effective communication and collaboration.

  • Senpai (先輩): This term refers to someone who is senior or has more experience in a particular field. They are expected to guide and mentor their juniors.
  • Kohai (後輩): This term refers to someone junior or less experienced. They are expected to show respect and deference to their seniors.

This relationship is characterized by mutual obligations and respect, which helps create a harmonious work environment. Here are some expressions commonly used in this context:

Japanese Pronunciation English
先輩 (せんぱい) senpai senior, mentor
後輩 (こうはい) kohai junior, mentee
お世話になります (おせわになります) osewa ni narimasu Thank you for your support (used when receiving help)
ご指導いただきありがとうございます (ごしどういただきありがとうございます) go shidō itadaki arigatou gozaimasu Thank you for your guidance

Common Business Customs and Etiquette[edit | edit source]

Japanese business culture is rich in customs that may seem unfamiliar to outsiders. Adhering to these customs is essential for building trust and respect. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Polite Greetings: The Japanese value politeness, and greetings are an essential part of business interactions. The standard greeting is a bow, which varies in depth depending on the level of respect you wish to convey. Handshakes are also common, especially when interacting with foreigners.

2. Business Cards (名刺, めいし): Exchanging business cards is a significant ritual in Japan. When you receive a card, treat it with great respect. Hold it with both hands and take a moment to read it before putting it away.

3. Meeting Etiquette: Punctuality is highly valued in Japan. Arriving late to a meeting can be seen as disrespectful. Additionally, it is customary to wait for the highest-ranking person to begin the meeting.

4. Consensus Decision-Making: Japanese companies often practice consensus-based decision-making (合意形成, ごういけいせい). This means that decisions are made collectively, and input from various levels of the organization is encouraged.

5. Formal Communication: Use formal language, especially when addressing superiors or clients. The Japanese language has different levels of politeness, so it's important to choose your words carefully.

Here are some useful phrases to remember:

Japanese Pronunciation English
おはようございます (おはようございます) ohayou gozaimasu Good morning
こんにちは (こんにちは) konnichiwa Good afternoon
こんばんは (こんばんは) konbanwa Good evening
よろしくお願いします (よろしくおねがいします) yoroshiku onegaishimasu Please treat me well (used when requesting a favor)
失礼いたします (しつれいいたします) shitsurei itashimasu Excuse me (used when entering or leaving a meeting)

Vocabulary and Expressions Used in the Corporate World[edit | edit source]

To communicate effectively in a Japanese business setting, it is important to familiarize yourself with specific vocabulary and expressions. Here are some essential terms and phrases:

Japanese Pronunciation English
会社 (かいしゃ) kaisha company
社長 (しゃちょう) shachou company president
部長 (ぶちょう) buchou department head
同僚 (どうりょう) dōryō colleague
取引先 (とりひきさき) torihikisaki client, business partner
会議 (かいぎ) kaigi meeting
提案 (ていあん) teian proposal
契約 (けいやく) keiyaku contract
経営 (けいえい) keiei management
給料 (きゅうりょう) kyūryō salary

Examples of Typical Workplace Scenarios[edit | edit source]

Understanding common workplace scenarios can help you navigate the business environment more effectively. Here are some examples:

1. Introducing Yourself:

  • Japanese: 初めまして。私の名前はジョンです。よろしくお願いします。
  • Pronunciation: Hajimemashite. Watashi no namae wa Jon desu. Yoroshiku onegaishimasu.
  • English: Nice to meet you. My name is John. Please treat me well.

2. In a Meeting:

  • Japanese: この提案について、意見を伺いたいです。
  • Pronunciation: Kono teian ni tsuite, iken wo ukagaitai desu.
  • English: I would like to hear your opinions on this proposal.

3. Discussing a Project:

  • Japanese: このプロジェクトの進捗はいかがですか？
  • Pronunciation: Kono purojekuto no shinchoku wa ikagadesu ka?
  • English: How is the progress of this project?

4. Giving Feedback:

  • Japanese: あなたのプレゼンテーションはとても良かったです。
  • Pronunciation: Anata no purezentēshon wa totemo yokatta desu.
  • English: Your presentation was very good.

5. Making Requests:

  • Japanese: この書類を明日までに提出していただけますか？
  • Pronunciation: Kono shorui wo ashita made ni teishutsu shite itadakemasu ka?
  • English: Could you please submit this document by tomorrow?

6. Addressing a Senior:

  • Japanese: 先輩、アドバイスをいただけますか？
  • Pronunciation: Senpai, adobaisu wo itadakemasu ka?
  • English: Senior, could you give me some advice?

7. Negotiating:

  • Japanese: お互いにとって良い条件を見つけましょう。
  • Pronunciation: Otagai ni totte yoi jōken wo mitsukemashou.
  • English: Let's find favorable terms for both of us.

8. Expressing Gratitude:

  • Japanese: ご協力いただき、ありがとうございます。
  • Pronunciation: Go kyōryoku itadaki, arigatou gozaimasu.
  • English: Thank you for your cooperation.

9. Ending a Meeting:

  • Japanese: 本日はお忙しい中、ありがとうございました。
  • Pronunciation: Honjitsu wa oisogashii naka, arigatou gozaimashita.
  • English: Thank you for your time today.

10. Discussing Future Plans:

  • Japanese: 次回の会議でお会いしましょう。
  • Pronunciation: Jikai no kaigi de oai shimashou.
  • English: Let's meet at the next meeting.

Exercises and Practice Scenarios[edit | edit source]

Now that you have a good understanding of Japanese business culture and vocabulary, let’s put your knowledge to the test. Below are some exercises designed to reinforce what you've learned.

Exercise 1: Vocabulary Matching[edit | edit source]

Match the Japanese terms with their English translations.

Japanese English
会社 a. colleague
社長 b. business partner
同僚 c. salary
取引先 d. company
給料 e. company president
  • Answers:
  • 会社 - d
  • 社長 - e
  • 同僚 - a
  • 取引先 - b
  • 給料 - c

Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks[edit | edit source]

Complete the sentences with the correct vocabulary.

1. おはようございます、私の名前は______です。 (Answer: your name)

2. この______はとても重要です。 (Answer: proposal)

3. 明日の会議で______をお話ししましょう。 (Answer: progress)

  • Answers:

1. ジョン (or your name)

2. 提案

3. 進捗

Exercise 3: Role Play[edit | edit source]

Pair up with a partner and practice introducing yourselves in a business setting. Use the following template:

  • 初めまして。私の名前は______です。______部で働いています。よろしくお願いします。
  • Expected Responses:

Each person should fill in their name and department.

Exercise 4: Scenario Discussion[edit | edit source]

Discuss the following scenario with a partner: You are in a meeting and you need to provide feedback on a colleague’s presentation. How would you express your thoughts politely?

  • Expected Expression:

You can say, "あなたのプレゼンテーションはとても良かったです。特に______が印象に残りました。" (Fill in with a specific point).

Exercise 5: Business Card Exchange[edit | edit source]

Practice the proper way to exchange business cards with a partner. Remember to use both hands and take a moment to read the card.

Exercise 6: Listening Comprehension[edit | edit source]

Listen to a recorded conversation in Japanese about a business meeting, then answer the following questions:

1. What is the main topic of discussion?

2. Who are the participants?

  • Expected Answers:

Answers will depend on the content of the recording.

Exercise 7: Writing Practice[edit | edit source]

Write a short email to a colleague thanking them for their support on a recent project. Use polite expressions and incorporate vocabulary from the lesson.

  • Expected Response:

An email should include expressions like "ご協力いただき、ありがとうございます。" and "次回もよろしくお願いします。"

Exercise 8: Translate the Sentences[edit | edit source]

Translate the following sentences into Japanese:

1. "I would like to hear your opinions on this proposal."

2. "Thank you for your guidance."

  • Expected Translations:

1. この提案について、意見を伺いたいです。

2. ご指導いただきありがとうございます。

Exercise 9: Hierarchy Discussion[edit | edit source]

Discuss with your partner the importance of hierarchy in Japanese business culture. Share your thoughts on how it differs from your own culture.

  • Expected Discussion Points:

Responses will vary based on personal experiences.

Exercise 10: Group Presentation[edit | edit source]

In small groups, prepare a brief presentation on a business topic of your choice. Use Japanese vocabulary and expressions from the lesson.

  • Expected Outcomes:

Presentations should incorporate learned vocabulary and demonstrate understanding of Japanese business etiquette.

By engaging with these exercises, you'll not only solidify your understanding of Japanese business culture but also become more confident in using the language.

In conclusion, understanding Japanese business and work culture is essential for anyone looking to engage with Japan's professional landscape. By learning the customs, vocabulary, and expressions, you are taking a significant step towards effective and respectful communication.

Table of Contents - Japanese Course - 0 to A1[edit source]


Hiragana Basics


Greetings and Introductions


Geography and History


Adjectives and Adverbs


Family and Social Relations


Religion and Philosophy


Particles and Conjunctions


Travel and Tourism


Education and Science


Prepositions and Interjections


Arts and Media


Politics and Society

Videos[edit | edit source]

Japanese work culture - YouTube[edit | edit source]

Japanese Business Culture and Etiquette - YouTube[edit | edit source]


Sources[edit | edit source]


Other Lessons[edit | edit source]



◀️ Social Issues and Controversies — Previous Lesson

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