How to Greet a Japanese Person
The Japanese culture emphasizes respect and honor in many different areas. The bow is a recognized staple of the Japanese introduction, but in the modern area, many Japanese forgo the bow for a hand shake. If you are entering into a business meeting with a Japanese person, you may have to exchange business cards before you can talk business. Let the Japanese person take the lead during the greeting period and try your best to conform to their culture.
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Instructions
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Approach the Japanese person. Do not extend your hand right away.
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Smile and anticipate their greeting. If they extend their hand, extend yours as well. If they bow, you should also bow. To bow properly, keep your hands flat at the sides of your legs as you slightly hunch over. Keep your eyes low. The length of the bow depends on your relationship with the other person. If you are greeting an acquaintance, the bow will be relatively short compared to the greeting of a family member.
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Give and receive business cards. The Japanese often give a card with one hand while simultaneously receiving a card with the other. It is not uncommon to exchange business cards before a business meeting.
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Tips & Warnings
People from Japan often give weak handshakes; this is cultural, so do not take it as a sign of weakness.
Do not write on business cards you receive or put them in your wallet during the meeting. Both of these actions are seen as disrespectful.
References
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