Customs & Etiquette in Japanese Business

Overseas business is best conducted after doing research into the culture that is being visited. Japan is a popular destination for business travel. The customs and etiquette expected during meetings are very important to Japanese businessmen. In order to get the most out of a meeting, make sure to comply with these customs.

Business Attire

Japanese business attire is very formal, with men wearing dark suits and ties during fall and winter months and lighter shades such as gray and beige in spring and summer. Hair is always short and presented neatly.

Business Cards

Business cards are very important and usually printed bilingually for international business meetings. They are always handed off formally and treated with care.

Gifts

Gifts are customary in Japanese business settings. Visiting businessmen are expected to bring a gift that represents their culture, and Japanese business hosts typically have a gift of their own, or will take clients out for dinner and drinks.

Seating Arrangement

The highest host executive in a business meeting sits at the head of the table during a meeting. Moving away from him on either side of the table, people sit in order of declining rank.

Notetaking

Japanese businessmen are trained to take detailed notes. They feel that taking notes during a meeting is a sign of respect, showing interest in what is being said.

References

• U.S. Commercial Service: Japanese Business Customs
• Japan-guide.com: Doing Business in Japan
• Venture Japan: Japanese business etiquette