Japanese Business Meeting Etiquette
In Japanese business etiquette, the Japanese place a high level of importance on protocol during any type of business meeting. This rule holds true to foreigners, who are expected to come prepared with a basic level of knowledge on Japanese business etiquette. Still, you should not be intimidated by this fact because your Japanese host will usually be very forgiving and understanding of the fact that you are not culturally Japanese. They will likely try to help you through any situation. The key is that you show the respect and effort of attempting to honor the customs of Japanese business etiquette.
When attending a business meeting, it is always critical that you present yourself in a professional manner. Dress code plays a very important role in your overall presentation. Make sure to dress in dark colors, and wear professional business suits. Business casual attire is definitely not a good idea, though some meetings will feature individuals who are dressed in this manner. Do not be the worst dressed in any situation. For more information on Japanese business dress code, please visit the Dress Code page.
During a business meeting, your demeanor should be relaxed and conservative. Do not expect any business discussions or negotiations to become heated debates. It is not common for the Japanese businessman to behave in a brash and abrasive manner. By exhibiting the wrong type of behavior, you risk losing trust and you will not be taken seriously. Another thing to remember about Japanese business meeting etiquette is that you should avoid using red ink. Red ink is seen as a bad or negative color. Use black or blue ink.
When you first greet someone face to face at a meeting, it is important to consider the Japanese customs. You should first bow your head and upper body slightly. Wait and see if your Japanese host initiates a handshake. The chances are very good that almost all Japanese hosts will offer their hand to you. Still, you should bow first and see if your Japanese host wishes to shake your hand. This principal is very important, as bowing is the Japanese equivalent of shaking someone's hand.
When it comes time to sit down and begin the business meeting, it is important to wait for direction on where to sit. Seating position is actually a very important thing to consider during your meeting. The Japanese determine seating position based on ones status within the organization. In most cases, the highest ranking person will take the head of the table. All subordinates will sit next to the head of the table in descending order, based on rank. Also, try not to be the only one sitting down.
During a business meeting, you should make every effort to show interest in the meeting. Try to acknowledge every group members input. Taking notes during a meeting is a very useful strategy, and repeating an idea to clarify help to keep yourself involved in the dialog. You want to make yourself look like you are interested at all times.
During a business meeting, gifts may be presented. In Japanese business etiquette, gifts are not mandatory, whether you or your hosts are presenting them. However, gifts always make for a nice gesture and may help you achieve your goals during a meeting. If you do receive a gift during a meeting, make sure that you thank everyone involved in its presentation and if it is wrapped, do not open it at the table.
