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How has COVID 19 changed the way you work in Japan?

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 05:35:03 GMT

The pandemic has given birth to a new way of life in Japan: "With Corona".

As a result of the pandemic regulations, the way we work and the values about working have changed dramatically.

Remote work has become a common practice

In Japan, there used to be few companies that understood remote work. However, after the first emergency declaration was issued in April 2020, remote work became much more common.

Remote work has now become a regular practice in many companies, as seen in online business meetings on Zoom, and internal communication using Teams.

Remote work has become one of the new ways of working " with Corona ", as it increases work efficiency through the use of such online tools and improves productivity.

Change in personnel evaluation to performance-based

Remote work has also changed the way we evaluate personnel.

In the past, personnel evaluations in Japanese companies were mainly based on work hours and face-to-face evaluations by managers.

However, as remote work has made it more difficult to manage employees' working hours and has reduced the opportunities for face-to-face contact with employees, the old evaluation system can no longer be used correctly.

For this reason, more and more companies are introducing a "performance-based" approach to personnel evaluation, evaluating employees based on their work performance.

Increase in side jobs

In the past, employees in Japan did not often have side jobs, and it was common for them to work for one company for a long time. However, due to the deterioration of company performance caused by the pandemic, companies have started to promote side jobs to their employees, and more and more people are starting to do side jobs. The fact that remote work has eliminated commuting time has also accelerated this trend.

Although the number of companies that promote side jobs is still small, it is said that the number will continue to increase in the future. There are also people who use their side jobs experience to improve their skills, increase their own market value, and change jobs for better conditions.

Increase in the number of freelancers

The number of people working as freelancers has doubled compared to the pre-pandemic period due to the worsening performance of companies and closures caused by the pandemic.

The pandemic has also led to an increase in the number of people who have taken the opportunity to reevaluate their traditional ways of working, such as the stress of crowded trains and long working hours, and try to spend more time with family and friends.

More and more people are reevaluating their way of life and choosing entrepreneurship or freelancing as a way of working that does not rely on a company.

High Context vs. Low Context Communication

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 05:48:18 GMT

Japan has a very unique business culture, and while it can be challenging to work in, there are some values that can be difficult to understand and can lead to some unnecessary stress. In this article, I will introduce communication styles in the Japanese workplace in the context of low-context and high-context. This may help to clear up some questions you may have at your workplace.

Communication Styles in the Japanese Workplace

It is very important to "read the atmosphere" as well as to know the business practices such as "Nemawashi" and " Ringi ". Reading the atmosphere means to understand what the other person wants from the situation and to act accordingly where it may not be so obvious in the words that they use.

For example, in Japan, if a manager says to a team member, "Do this when you're free," the work will be done in a timely manner without any problems even without clear instructions. This is because it is customary to read the atmosphere and understand what the other person wants, even if it is not clearly stated in words. For this reason, "reading the atmosphere" is directly related to the evaluation of work in Japan compared to other countries, and even if you are excellent at your job, you may lessen your reputation if you cannot read the atmosphere.

Low-context and high-context

Why is "reading the atmosphere" so important in Japan?

Read about the differences between low-context and high-context countries in the book "The Culture Map " by Erin Meyer to find out.

High-context: Good communication is sophisticated, nuanced, and layered. Messages are both spoken and read between the lines. Messages are often implied but not plainly expressed.
Low-context: Good communication is precise, simple, and clear. Messages are expressed and understood at face value. Repetition is appreciated if it helps clarify the communication.

The distribution in each country is shown in Figure 1. Japan is the most high-context country in the world, and the U.S. is the most low-context country. Of course, there are individual differences in personality within a country, but there is a major trend for the country as a whole.

FIGURE 1

Erin Meyer, The culture map: The interplay of language and history （PUBLICAFFAIRS,2016）39.

The Culture Map: Decoding How People Think, Lead, and Get Things Done Across Cultures | Meyer, Erin |本 | 通販 | Amazon

High-context cultures tend to have a long shared history

Japan is an island nation with a homogeneous population and has had little influence from outside the country for a long time, so it has naturally fostered a society with a culture of mutual understanding and sensitivity to the intentions of others. As a result, the culture has become one that does not communicate things clearly, but expects the other person to understand the differences in nuance.

The United States, on the other hand, is made up of many ethnic groups with different backgrounds, so people are expected to communicate their intentions straightforwardly and clearly to avoid misunderstanding.

This is how people's communication style has been shaped by the history of their country and the reason why Japan places so much importance on “reading the atmosphere” and leans towards non-verbal communication.

Erin Meyer, The Culture Map: The Interplay of Language and History (PUBLICAFFAIRS,2016) p40.

By understanding the difference between high context and low context culture, you can not only understand Japanese business culture, but you can also apply it to communicating with people from different cultures. Why not try to incorporate this concept into your daily life? It will help you better understand the way that your Japanese colleagues may interact with you and improve your communication with them.

Showing Appreciation in Japan

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 07:50:33 GMT

Did you know that showing appreciation can not only create a positive work environment, but can also increase your own happiness? Appreciation is important all over the world, and Japan is no exception, where it is considered very important to show appreciation to people in the workplace, to clients, and in many other situations.

Even if it is a small task that someone else is in charge of, it will eventually support you. If you can let go of the idea that it's natural for someone else to do it for you, and remember that you are only able to do your work because the people around you support you, you will naturally feel gratitude towards other members of the team.

Particularly in the Japanese workplace where everyone works together, showing appreciation will help build good relationships.

Benefits of Showing Appreciation

Expressing gratitude has the following benefits:

1. Motivates Teams

Showing appreciation has been proven to boost motivation among team members. Even if you routinely ask someone to do a job for you in order to proceed with a project, you can motivate your team members by expressing your gratitude each time. By repeating this, you will naturally create a positive atmosphere in the entire workplace.

2. Mental and Physical Health

The act of showing appreciation has a positive effect on your own mental and physical health. Having a sense of appreciation is directly related to your own mental and physical health. Since you will have more positive feelings every day, your relationships will inevitably improve and your stress will decrease. The quality of your sleep will also improve, resulting in a higher level of happiness and better mental and physical health.

How to Show Appreciation

There are many ways to express gratitude in the workplace. Here are a couple...

1. A casual "Thank you"

When someone does something for you, even if it is a small thing, say "thank you". If you can't meet the person you want to thank in person, you can express your gratitude in a casual manner by using an internal communication tool. In addition to saying "thank you," it is recommended to add a few words such as, "You did a good job of summarizing the material, which was very helpful."

2. Express your gratitude in front of others

You can also express your gratitude by mentioning that someone helped you with a job in a tool that can be viewed by all employees, such as an internal reporting tool, or by casually saying "I appreciate your support" at a meeting. This will not only motivate the other person, but it will also have a positive impact on you, making it easier for you to receive support from others and succeed in business.

Having a sense of appreciation for the people around you will not only create a positive work atmosphere, it will also have a positive effect on your own physical and mental health. It can be said that people who are successful in business always express their gratitude. If you are facing challenges in your workplace, why not try to make a conscious effort to show appreciation?

Japanese Apologies: Meaning, Use and Language

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 12:03:08 GMT

People are not perfect, so there will be times when you will need to apologize when you make a mistake or fail in some way. However, when living in Japan, you may see people apologizing even when it is not their fault. When comparing to other countries that do not apologize unnecessarily, you may wonder why Japanese people apologize so often. It could be said that this is a unique Japanese way of communicating to show respect to others.

In this article, I would like to introduce the Japanese apology culture and the usage and meaning of words used in different situations to express apologies in Japanese.

Japanese Apology Culture

Japanese people often apologize even when it is not their fault, using phrases like " Sumimasen " or " Moushiwake gozaimasen ".

The reason for this is that Japanese people place great importance on not breaking the trust with the other person, so even if it is not your fault, you should first apologize for offending the other person, and then explain the situation after the other person's emotions have subsided.

It is natural to apologize when you have clearly made a mistake, but in Japan, it is common to show respect to the other party by first offering an apology even if you are not at fault. For example, let us say you are asked to do a job by a client with a deadline that is clearly unreasonable and you refuse. In such a case, the way to reply would be as follows.

Japanese: ご要望にお応えすることができず、申し訳ございません。

Transliteration: Goyoubou ni okotaesurukoto ga dekizu, moushiwake gozaimasen.

English: I apologize for not being able to meet your request.

Even if you are refusing the job because you cannot meet the client's requested deadline, use the word "Moushiwake gozaimasen"(I am sorry) as an apology. You don't want to make the other person feel bad, and you don't want to miss out on future business opportunities.

How to express an apology

1. Sumimasen (I'm sorry/Thank you)

This is used when a colleague or manager at work has spent time or money on your behalf. The phrase " Sumimasen " expresses both apology and gratitude and is often heard in the workplace, so it is worth observing in what situations Japanese people use it.

Example: When someone copies materials for you at work.

" Sumimasen, arigatou gozaimasu "(Thank you.)

2. Shitsurei itashimashita (I apologize.)

This is used when you make a minor mistake to a manager or client at work.

Example: If you are a little late for a meeting with a client.

" Osokunatteshimai, shitsurei itashimashita " (I apologize for being late.)

3. Moushiwake gozaimasen (I sincerely apologize)

This is an honorific expression of "I am sorry" used in the workplace to address managers or clients. It is basically used for serious mistakes or failures. However, as explained in the beginning of this article, it can also be used in situations where you are not at fault.

Example: When you cannot meet a deadline for work.

" Gomeiwaku wo okakeshite, moushiwake gozaimasen " (I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.)

There are many ways to apologize in Japan and they are used in different ways depending on the person or situation, so it may be difficult to use them perfectly. However, an apology is not only about the words, but also the feeling, which is just as important, if not more so. If you are sincere in your apology, the other person will surely understand.

In order to maintain good relations with the people around you in your life in Japan, you should gradually learn how to say and use apologies.

Ringi - The Decision-Making Process

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 13:57:23 GMT

If you work in a Japanese company, you will probably hear the word " Ringi " a lot.

The term Ringi refers to the bottom-up decision-making process in the Japanese management system. Specifically, it means getting approval for various projects from multiple related teams and departments within the company. For example, in order to obtain approval for a contract with a new business partner or for the purchase of a company car or computer, a "Ringi-sho" document describing the purpose, benefits, and cost of the contract is circulated within the company for approval.

Traditionally, Ringi-sho was paper-based, but recently, more and more companies are using the electronic format. However, such a consensus-based decision-making system can take up to a month to reach a final decision because of the involvement of multiple parties. For this reason, Japanese companies are sometimes viewed negatively for taking too much time to make decisions.

Japan's unique business culture is a factor

You may be wondering why it takes so long to make decisions. The reason is related to Japan's unique business culture.

In Japan, internal transfers occur frequently within a company, and the top management team is not always an expert in their department. Therefore, they do not understand the actual field and work, making it difficult to make decisions or very dangerous to make decisions unilaterally. Therefore, in order to make the right decision, the opinions of team members who understand the field are key.

In addition, no job is completed by one person from beginning to end in Japanese companies, and all work is carried out in cooperation with teams, departments, and the organization as a whole. Therefore, it is necessary to make decisions based on the consensus of multiple teams and departments.

Advantages of " Ringi "

While there is a disadvantage that the Ringi is time-consuming, it also has the following advantages.

The "Ringi" system, which is a business custom unique to Japan, has the image of taking more time than necessary, but it also has the positive aspect of reducing unnecessary meetings and enabling decisions to be made that reflect the voice of the frontline. The decision-making process where everyone expresses their opinions and reaches consensus is one of the good points of Japanese companies.

Manners in the Japanese Workplace: Hō-Ren-Sō

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 14:33:14 GMT

One of the most important things to remember when working in a Japanese organization is " Hō-Ren-Sō ".

Hō = Hōkoku ( 報告 ) = reporting

Ren = Renraku ( 連絡 ) = communication

Sō = Sōdan ( 相談 ) = consultation

Typically in Japan, no job is completed by one person from the beginning to the end, and all work is carried out in cooperation with teams, departments, and even the organization as a whole. For this reason, Hō-Ren-Sō is considered important to carry out work efficiently, share information, and improve productivity within the organization.

Why is Hō-ren-sō so important?

You may be wondering, " Why do I need to report my work progress to my manager and others? " or " Don't they trust me? " You may feel that this is a form of micromanagement and has a negative image of Hō-Ren-Sō. However, Hō-Ren-Sō is not a negative thing, but a positive thing .

Unlike the way you would expect things to be done, where a specialist is assigned to each aspect of a job, and the manager tells the person in charge the final goal, leaving it in their hands to complete the task with a degree of autonomy. In Japan it is common for team members to work together while getting instructions from the manager every step of the way.

For example, by having each team member report the status to his or her manager, the manager is able to identify problems at an early stage. The manager can then oversee the entire project to ensure that the delivery date, sales targets, and other goals are met by allocating the missing resources or applying corrective measures to the problems.

Therefore, Hō-Ren-Sō is not only practiced when the assigned work is completed or when a problem occurs, but also when reporting the progress of work or when the situation changes.

Appropriately timed Hō-Ren-Sō can build good relationships within the company, improve overall productivity, and even prevent major mistakes before they happen.

As you can see, Hō-Ren-Sō should not have a negative connotation and is a good management strategy that is suitable for the way work is done in Japan. Let's give Hō-Ren-Sō a go and communicate with the people around us to make our work go smoothly!

Tips for Socializing Over Business in Japan

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 17:26:38 GMT

In Japan, meetings are conducted in a very organized and professional manner following a certain set of rules such as seating arrangements based on role and seniority. Participants are expected be conservative and very respectful to the members of the meeting, colleagues and counterparts alike.

But it doesn't stop there. In Japan, the official meeting is often followed by social activities, where personal relationships are forged. Not entirely different from Western culture, food and alcohol is also seen as a lubricant for social interactions in Japan. However, you'll want to make sure you are aware of any customs and unspoken rules when interacting with your Japanese colleagues to ensure you maintain respect and decorum while having fun.

Here are some customs to be aware of when interacting socially with business associates in Japan.

Align your shoes neatly

Many restaurants in Japan require removing your shoes upon entering, either at the entrance or upon entering a private "tatami" room for your party. When leaving your shoes at the main entrance, you would typically place your shoes in a special shoe locker or on a shelf, and change into slippers (provided by the establishment). When entering a room, or elevated "no shoes" area, you want to be sure not to just kick your shoes off and leave them in a heap. Proper etiquette would have you standing with your heels against the step and your toes pointing in the opposite direction (as they do). Not only does this keep things looking tidy, but also makes it easier for you to put them on when you are heading out.

Japanese people are always thinking ahead, exemplified by cars usually being backed into their spaces, looking uniform and making for a quick and easy exit later. So, when it comes to your shoes, you don't want to stand out as the untidy or unprepared sort. Japanese people will see this as a lack of intelligence and manners. So don't get off on the wrong foot when it comes to your business-related social interactions.

Keep the glasses full

While it's okay, in fact expected, to have fun and be a little more relaxed in situations where you are drinking and eating out with colleagues, you should still follow certain points of etiquette. For example, you should always be aware of other people's drinks. When sharing drinks from large bottles (something very social in itself), if someone's glass is empty, offer to pour them another drink and wait for your glass to be filled by someone else. Although this may sound easy, it can also become a battle for who gets to pour the boss their next drink. It's almost like a game to see who is paying attention, and if you're trying to impress a Japanese client or a business partner, it's considered a courtesy to pour them a drink and vise versa.

One thing to watch out for, though. It is considered disrespectful if the bottle runs out while pouring someone's drink, especially if that person is of a senior position. So, if the bottle looks to be running out, try to find one with enough to complete the task. This is one situation where being a "cup's half full" kind of person is not ideal.

Don't worry about a little noise when eating

In western cultures, it is considered rude to make noise when you eat. That is not the case in Japan. When you eat ramen for example, you are supposed to slurp your noodles. It is considered respectful to the people who make it to let them know it tastes good.

Another example is when you drink beer. After you take a sip of beer, it is good to follow your sip with an audible " aaaah " or a comment on how good the beer tastes ( umai ne ). This is considered to be a social norm and also communicates your willingness to conform with the people on your team.

Keep these tips in mind during the meeting after the business meeting , but don't forget to have fun and build personal relationships with your colleagues, clients, and business associates.

Tips for Socializing Over Business in Japan

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 09:39:57 GMT

Here are some customs to be aware of when interacting socially with business associates in Japan.

Align your shoes neatly

Japanese people are always thinking ahead, exemplified by cars usually being backed into their spaces, looking uniform and making for a quick and easy exit later. So, when it comes to your shoes, you don't want to stand out as the untidy or unprepared sort. Japanese people will see this as a lack of intelligence and manners. So don't get off on the wrong foot when it comes to your business-related social interactions.

Keep the glasses full

Don't worry about a little noise when eating

A nother example is when you drink beer. After you take a sip of beer, it is good to follow your sip with an audible " aaaah " or a comment on how good the beer tastes ( umai ne ). This is considered to be a social norm and also communicates your willingness to conform with the people on your team.

Keep these tips in mind during the meeting after the business meeting , but don't forget to have fun and build personal relationships with your colleagues, clients, and business associates.

日本での名刺エチケット

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 17:26:33 GMT

日本では、名刺交換は儀式に近い習慣です。そのような適切な行動やマナーに従わないとあなた自身や会社を代表するあなたの会社にとっても影響を及ぼす可能性があります。名刺交換の際、社会的なミスを防ぐためにここでは重要な点をいくつかお伝えします。

準備万端に

重要な出来事や会議の準備をする際、十分な枚数の名刺を準備することは忘れられがちです。名刺入れと十分な数の名刺をいつも準備しておきましょう。よりたくさんの良い人との繋がりを作ることは大切です。少ないより多い方がいいので必要と思われる以上の枚数を用意しましょう。つながりを作るために必要な名刺がきれてしまうことのないようにしましょう。

きれいに

名刺は常に名刺ケースに入れてきれいな状態にしておきましょう。名刺はあなたを表すものです。日本では、名刺をどのように扱うかがあなたや会社の価値を反映させます。ですので名刺がしわになりやすいポケットや財布から出しましょう。相手から受け取った名刺も同じように扱いましょう。名刺を乱雑に扱うことは相手にとって大変失礼な行為です。

お辞儀をして自己紹介を

日本人との初めて対面で合う時、かるくお辞儀をして手に名刺を持って自己紹介をしてください。

名刺交換

これはあなたの敬意と感謝を相手に伝えるタイミングです。相手側が名刺を渡そうとするとき、自分の名刺を彼らのしたになるように両手で渡します。このようにして相手に自分の敬意とあなたが謙虚な姿勢だということを表します。そして相手の名刺を丁寧に右手で受け取ると同時に相手はあなたの名刺を同じように受け取ります。

名刺を大切に

上記でお伝えしたように、名刺を受け取る際敬意を表すことを忘れないでください。相手の名刺を見て何が書かれているか注目しましょう。もし日本語が読めなくても見て頷き、興味を示すようにしましょう。

安全な場所に

受け取った名刺をしまうとき、相手側に自分が安全な場所にしまうところを見せるようにしましょう。もしポケットや財布に入れてしまうと相手の名前と会社を尊敬していないように思われます。

日本の名刺エチケットは少し複雑で理解しがたいように見えます。しかしながら、この手順を踏むことでよい成功につながる正しい道のりを歩むことができます。

Business Card Etiquette in Japan

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 09:39:44 GMT

In Japan, exchanging business cards is a practice that borders on ritual. A failure to follow such the appropriate actions and manner can be costly to the reputation to yourself and company you represent. To avoid some of the social pitfalls when exchanging business cards, here are a few important tips.

Bring a good supply

When making preparations for an important event or meeting, adequately preparing your business cards can be easily forgotten. Make sure to always take with you an ample supply of business cards (in a proper card case, of course). Making connections with as many (of the right) people as possible is important. Make sure to bring more than you think you will need, so that you have extra on hand. It's better to have too many on you than not enough. You don't want to run out and not have one when you really need to make that connection.

Keep them clean

Make sure to store them in a card case for easy access and to keep them presentable. Your business card is a representation of you. In Japan, how you treat your business card can be a reflection for how you value yourself and your company. So, it is important to keep them out of your pocket or wallet where they can get wrinkled. Keep in mind that the same goes for the business cards you receive from others. Disrespecting someone's business card can be seen as disrespecting the person.

Bow and introduce yourself

Upon your first face-to-face encounter with your Japanese counterpart, bow slightly and introduce yourself with your business card already in your hands.

The exchange

This is where you can really show your respect and gratitude for the occasion. When they, and they will, show you their business card, place your business card below theirs with both hands. This will communicate to them that you are respectful and that you are humbled. Then gently grab their card with your right hand as they grab yours.

Respect the business card

As mentioned above, when you receive their business card, make sure to show it respect. Look at it and acknowledge what's written on the card. If you can't read Japanese, just nod and keep the business card in front of you to show that you're interested.

Place the card somewhere safe

When putting away the business card that you just received, make sure they see you place it in a secure location. If you place their card in your pocket or wallet, it will only show that you don’t respect their name and business.

Business card etiquette in Japan can be quite complicated and difficult to understand. However, following the steps above should get you off on the right foot and set you up to make successful connections in Japan.

日本のビジネス文化でのもったいない

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 17:26:34 GMT

日本のビジネス文化

日本は人や自然、あるいはモノにたいする敬意の文化としてよく知られています。この文化は敬意の一般的な特徴を形作る様々な教えを通し、若いうちから取り入れられます。その中でこの精神を形作ってきた最も大切な教えの一つとして、「もったいない」という概念があります。

このもったいないという表現は「無駄」というように訳されます。そしてまだ何かが使えるのに捨ててしまう、というような状況の時に使われます。例えば、お皿の上に食べ物を残したり、まだ再利用できる紙を捨ててしまうような時です。もったいないの意味は、物質的な物や資源を浪費したり、悪用したりすることを後悔するという仏教の概念に由来しています。

それはまた、時間とともに異なる意味を持ってきました。その表現はかつてものに対する重要性や敬意の欠如を表現することにも使われていました。

日本のビジネス文化にどのように使われているか

この表現は日本での生活のどんな場面でも使われており、ビジネスシーンも例外ではありません。「無駄にしない」というのは日本の基本的な価値観で、みんなそれに従っています。失礼にならないよう無駄に対する責任を互いに持つことが大切です。ビジネスシーンで悪い評判がたたないように、あなたが人から「もったいない」と言われないための方法をお伝えします。

1: 資源

曖昧に聞こえるかもしれませんが、もったいないは資源が無駄にされるときに使われます。この資源とは、紙からモノ、会社の経費などの大きな物も対象です。例えば、もし社員が長距離の旅行でタクシーを使わなければいけない場合、それはもったいないと考えられます。なぜならコスパや環境に良い電車という他の方法が使えるからです。

2: 計画

日本の決断プロセスは遅くて非効率的にみられることがありますが、その一方でそれは後になって不要な修正を防ぐための意図的な措置だとも言えます。不十分な計画による頻繁な修正や引き返したりすることはもったいないと言えるでしょう。一般的に日本のビジネス習慣では実行の際に資源や、労力、時間を無駄にしないよう計画の段階で多くの時間を費やします。

3: 時間

人件費や人材を乏しく扱うのはもったいないとみられます。これは、人が能力を発揮していない場合、またはプロジェクトやタスクを完了するために必要なスタッフが過剰にチームが肥大化している場合に発生する可能性があります。ここではもったいないの概念を活用するのはチームを固めて人件費を削減するのに役立ちますが、近年の日本のビジネスで懸念されている過労の悪影響を犠牲にすることもあります。

4: 機会

営業の機会が無くなったり、投資の期限が切れたり、顧客に成り得る取引先が別方向へ行ってしまった時等ももったいないと表現できます。これらのシーンでの「無駄」とは効果的に使われなかった資源ではなく、潜在的な可能性についてです。機会は浪費されており、目に見える利益は計り知れないかもしれません。もったいない！

あなたは職場やそれ以外でももったいないの表現や概念をたくさん耳にするでしょう。日本文化の中でビジネスをしたり人とやり取りをする上でこの概念は覚えて、さらに習慣にすると良いでしょう。

What a Waste: Mottainai

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 09:39:24 GMT

What a Waste: Mottainai (もったいない) in Japanese Business Culture

Japan is widely known for its culture of respect for people, nature, and even objects. This culture is embedded in them from a young age through different teachings that cultivate a general character of respect. One of most important, but casual, concepts that helps shape this attitude is the concept of Mottainai (もったいない).

This expression of Mottainai roughly translates to "what a waste", and is used when something that can still be of use is wasted. For example, when you don't finish the food on your plate or when you throw away paper that can be recycled or used again. The meaning of Mottainai (もったいない）originates from the Buddhist concept of regret over squandering, or even misusing, material objects and resources.

Mottainai also has had different meanings over time. At one time the expression was used to communicate the lack of importance and respect for something.

How does this translate into Business in Japan

This expression is used in all facets of life in Japan, and business is no exception. "Not being wasteful" is seen as a standard in Japan, a standard that should be followed by everyone. It is important to keep each other accountable to being wasteful, as it can be interrupted as disrespectful or un-cultured. To avoid having a bad reputation in a business setting, here are some ways you can avoid having "mottainai" said to you.

1: Resources

As vague as this may sound, mottainai can be used when resources are being wasted. This can range from wasting paper to other, larger company expenses. For example, if a staff member has to travel a long distance and insists on taking a taxi, this can be considered Mottainai as they can take the train which is a more cost-effective, not to mention more eco-friendly, alternative.

2: Planning

Although the Japanese decision-making process can be seen as slow and inefficient on one hand, it can also be said to be more as deliberate measure to avoid unnecessary correction later on the other. The need for frequent correction and backtracking as a result of poor planning, can be said to be Mottainai. Generally, Japanese business practices prefer to spend excessive time in the planning stages as to not “waste” time, energy or resources during execution.

3: Time

Poorly utilizing manpower and human resources can be viewed as Mottainnai. This can happen when a person is not performing to their capacity or a team is bloated with an over-abundance of staff necessary to complete the project or tasks. Here utilizing the concept of Mottainai helps to keep teams tight and labor costs low, sometimes at the expense of the negative impact of over-working, which has been a topic of concern in Japanese business in recent years.

4: Opportunity

Chances missed, like a sales opportunity has gone by, an investment window expired, a potential partner has decided to go in another direction, etc., can be seen as Mottainai. In this sense, the “waste” here is potential, not of resources that haven’t been used effectively. Opportunity has been squandered and the tangible gain may be immeasurable. What a waste!

You will hear the concept and expression of Mottainai frequently, whether it is inside or outside your work place. It is something you should keep in mind and practice as you interact and do business within the setting of Japanese culture.

日本のビジネスシーンにおける暗黙のルール：ジェスチャーとマナー

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 17:26:36 GMT

日本でのビジネスエチケット

どの国の文化でも教えられたりあえて言わなくても自然に取り入れられるたくさんのルールがあります。これは日本のビジネスエチケットでもそうですし、仕事やあなたの評判にも大きく影響し得ます。一般的に日本人は文化的な過ちを許してくれたり理解をしてくれることが多いですが、暗黙のルールを知っているとビジネス上の機会に足を踏み入れることができます。

おそらく日本のビジネスシーンに盲目的に置かれることは混乱してイライラするかもしれませんが、ここでは実践すべきジェスチャーやマナーを含む暗黙のルールについてお話するためにこのブログを書いています。

挨拶

西洋の社会的なやりとりで見られるようなものとは反対に、日本人は理解を示すために小さな手掛かりに頼り、コミュニケーションを最小限に保つことを好みます。挨拶するときは相手の手を握って握手することは避けるようにしてください。その代わり、お辞儀を。これは大げさでなくても頭をかるく下げ床を見るくらいの会釈で大丈夫です。お礼や迎え入れるときにもお辞儀をして感謝を示す挨拶をします。

理解を示すためにうなずく

どこへ行くにしてもミーティングを妨げることは失礼とみられることがあります。しかしながら日本では自分が理解していることや相手の言いたいことを認識していることをアピールすることはある意味で失礼とみなされることもあります。それではどのように自分が相手のことを理解していると伝えるのでしょうか。それは頭を小さくうなずくことでできます。口に出すことは不要ですがうなずくだけであなたが相手側に注意を払って聞いているサインになります。さらに相手に同意しなくてもうなずくことで相手に敬意を払ういい方法にもなります。

３回が魅力的

ドアが閉まっている会議室に入るとき、ノックをせずにいきなり扉を開けることはよくありません。その代わりに３回ノックをしましょう。すこし扉を開けて顔を覗かせてあなたの名前を言いましょう。

これは相手側があなたのことを知っていてもするべきです。もし相手側が入るように言ったらお辞儀をして挨拶をします。これはあなたが礼儀正しいことを表す大事なポイントです。

頭を下げ続ける

もしあなたやあなたの会社がミーティングを開く側であれば、招待者をエレベーターまで見送ることは大切です。しかしそれだけでは終わりません。エレベーターに着いたらさようならの挨拶をしてお辞儀をします。お辞儀をする際はエレベーターのドアが閉まるまでそこで立って頭を下げ続けます。相手の姿が見えなくなるまでできるだけお辞儀の姿勢を保ちます。

ここでご紹介したことは日本でビジネスをする際には覚えておくとよいです。そうすればあなたの取引先やお客様に失礼のないように行動できます。なぜなら日本では小さなことを尊重し、それを実行することはとても役に立つからです。

Unwritten Rules in Japanese Business: Gestures and Mannerisms

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 09:39:02 GMT

Business Etiquette in Japan

In every culture, there are various untaught and unspoken rules that the people of that culture have adapted naturally. This is the case with Japanese Business etiquette, where not knowing these rules can cost your business or even your reputation. And while, in general, Japanese people tend to be forgiving and understanding of cultural faux pas, being aware of unwritten rules can give you a leg up in a business encounter.

Perhaps being blindly placed into the Japanese business scene can be confusing and frustrating, but I am here to tell you about the unspoken rules involving gesture and mannerisms you should know and practice.

Greetings

Unlike a lot of other social interactions in the west, Japanese people like to keep their interactions very minimal and respectable, relying on small cues to show understanding. Try avoiding shaking your peers’ hands when greeting them. Instead, bow. This does not have to be exaggerated, but you will have to lower your head to the point in which your looking towards the floor.

You should also bow when saying thank you, or when someone is leaving to show them gratitude for coming.

Small nods to show understanding

Interrupting others during a meeting can be seen as disrespectful almost any where you go. However, in Japan, being vocal about the fact that you are understanding and acknowledging what the speaker is saying can also be deemed disrespectful in a sense.

So how do you show that you are listening to the speaker?

Well, it can be done with simple nods of the head. Vocal queues to show understanding are not necessary, instead slight nodding can show that you are listening, and even if you don't understand or agree, it is a great way to show respect to the speaker.

3 times is the charm

When entering a meeting, and the conference room doors are closed, it's not a good idea to barge in unannounced. Instead, knock 3 times before entering the room. Open the door slightly, and peak your head in, state who you represent and your name.

This should be done even if they are expecting you. If they tell you to come in, bow and say hello. This is a key way of making sure that you are not viewed as disrespectful.

Keep your head down

If you and the company that you represent are hosting the meeting, is it essential for you to walk your guests out to the elevator. But it does not end there. Once they get on the elevator, say your formal goodbye’s and bow. When you bow, hold this position until the elevator doors are closed. Remain there until the doors close. And try to hold your bow until they are out of sight.

These are great tips to keep in mind while you conduct business in Japan to ensure you don’t rub your business partners the wrong way or be disrespectful, because in Japan respect and doing the small things goes a long way.

日本のビジネス服装について

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 17:26:37 GMT

想像してみてください：

今日スティーブンはオンラインマーケティングの監督として彼のサービスを検討している日本企業とレストランでミーティングがあります。彼らは来たるホリデーシーズンに向けたオンラインマーケティングキャンペーンを開始したいと思っています。今は12月中旬でスティーブンはクリスマスが近いので彼は白いスーツにカラフルなネクタイを選びました。スポーツ用の白い靴下にはいくつか穴があいています。パソコンとジムで使うトレーニングウェアを入れた大きなリュックサックを背負って家を出発しました。

もしあなたが日本でこのスティーブンのようだとしたら、この取引はうまくいかないでしょう。

それでは、何がいけなかったのでしょう？

日本ではビジネスシーンでの服装は西洋の国々に比べて個々のプロとしての意識や敬意について多く反映されます。祝日が近いような状況でもスティーブンのように目立つ明るい色のスーツなどはあまり好まれません。では、どのような服装が適切なのでしょうか。日本でミーティングをする際覚えておくべきことをご紹介します。

季節に合ったドレスコードを

派手な色のスーツや服装は日本ではほとんど好まれません。しかしながら一般的なビジネス服装の色は季節によってよく変わりますのでこの暗黙の了解に溶け込むことが大事です。例えば夏は黒いスーツだと暑くなるのでグレーのスーツを着たりします。このように黒いスーツは主に涼しい時期に多く着られます。ネクタイやジャケットを着用せず、半袖のシャツや首元のボタンを開けるスタイルの「クールビズ」は蒸し暑い日本の夏に一般的にみられます。女性の服装については男性ほどルールのようなものはありませんがタンクトップやミニスカートなどの肩や足の露出は控えた方が良いです。

保守的な服装を

必要以上のものを持って行くことはよく見えません。ミーティングには必要最低限のものを持っていきましょう。個人の持ち物が入った大きなリュックサックを持って行くとうまく優先順位や整理のできない人という印象を与えます。特にそれがミーティングの妨げや遅れになるものであれば特に。小さなリュックサックや薄いブリーフケースなどが整った印象を与えることができます。

靴下は新しくて綺麗なものを

綺麗な靴下を履くことは日本ではとても重要です。なぜでしょうか？誰も見ることのない靴下がなぜ綺麗でないといけないのかと思うでしょう。日本のあるいくつかのレストランや特に家では靴を脱いであがります。その時に穴の開いた靴下を履いていたらプロフェッショナルには見えません。仕事の機会を穴の開いた靴下のせいで台無しにはしたくないですね。これはビジネス会議ではあまり出てくる可能性は少ないと思いますが念には念を。

もしあなたがまだ慣れていない場合は、会議の前に少し時間を取って、町の周りで他のビジネスマンが着ているものに注意し、周りに合うように従ってください。そして、スティーブンが犯したのと同じ過ちを犯さないようにしてください。

Business Attire in Japan

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 03:33:08 GMT

Picture this:

Today, Steven has a meeting at a restaurant with a Japanese company that is interested in his services as an online marketing director.

They want to launch an online marketing campaign for the holiday season, which is right around the corner.

It's mid-December, and he's wearing a white suit with a colorful tie because it's almost Christmas. The white sport socks he has on have a couple of holes. He has his computer, along with his gym clothes, in a bulky backpack.

If you are like Steven, you will likely never receive a call back from a Japanese company in such a scenario.

So, what did Steven do wrong?

In Japan, business attire can speak much louder than its western counterparts in regards to conveying the appropriate level of professionalism and respect. Even in situations like Steven's, where the holiday season is right around the corner, wearing bright suits to stand out is not the most appreciated way of celebrating the festive atmosphere. So, what are the proper steps to make sure you don't over dress going into your meeting with a Japanese company, you may ask? Well, here are some tips to remember when getting ready for your meeting in Japan.

Follow the dress code according to the season

Wearing a brightly-colored suit or business attire is never appropriate in a business setting in Japan. However, the common color of Japanese business attire often changes with the season, so it is important to assimilate to this unspoken rule. Businessmen and women wear grey suits during the summer, as it can be much too hot to wear a black suit. Thus, black suits are most often reserved for the cooler months. Cool Biz, wearing a short-sleeve button-down shirt, without jacket or tie, is quite common in the warmer months, particularly during the humid Japanese summers.

For women, the "rules" seem to be less defined, but it would be wise to avoid wearing a top that reveals the shoulders or cleavage. Mini-skirt are also best avoided in a business environment.

Dress Conservatively

Bringing more items than necessary does not reflect well on one's business acumen. It is usually advisable to only take what you need to the meeting. Having a bulky backpack with all of your personal belongings can be taken as a sign of being unorganized or that one is poor at setting priorities, especially if it distracts or causes any sort of delay in the meeting. A small backpack or a thin briefcase is recommended to show you are organized and tidy.

Clean Socks

Clean socks are important in Japan. You may wonder why, because no one will see what's in your shoes, right?

However, in some restaurants or offices, and just about all houses in Japan you will be expected to remove your shoes. When you do, you don't want to have holes in your socks as you will look unprofessional.

You don't want to lose a job opportunity because of the holes in your socks. Although, this will likely not come up in a business meeting, it's better to be safe nonetheless.

If you are unfamiliar with such customs, take a bit of time before your meeting to take note of what other business people are wearing and follow " suit ". Be sure to avoid making the same mistakes Steven made