Language/Japanese/Culture/Japanese-Business-and-Work-Culture

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◀️ Social Issues and Controversies — Previous Lesson

Japanese Culture → Politics and Society → Japanese Business and Work Culture

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.

Once you've mastered this lesson, take a look at these related pages: Traditional and Modern Science and Technology & Traditional Arts and Customs.

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:

Japanese	Pronunciation	English
会社	kaisha	Company
部署	busho	Department
上司	jōshi	Boss/supervisor
同僚	dōryō	Colleague
お客様	okyakusama	Customer/client
交渉	kōshō	Negotiation
契約	keiyaku	Contract
発表	happyō	Presentation
請求書	seikyūsho	Invoice

Japanese Work Etiquette

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Japanese Work Style

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sources

Table of Contents - Japanese Course - 0 to A1

Course Presentation

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

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Japanese work culture - YouTube

Japanese Business Culture and Etiquette - YouTube

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