General Information (General Concepts)

 Other Links : Business Culture | Customs in the Workplace | Non-Verbal Communication

 THE GROUP IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN THE INDIVIDUAL

The Japanese believe that cooperation and harmony among all members of a group is more important than an individual's desire to put his or her interests above all others. In North America, there is an extreme form of individualism and an emphasis on one's rights. In Japan, each individual is important, however, he or she is not an isolated being. Each individual is a member of a team, whether a family, an office, a neighbourhood, a community, or the country. The Japanese believe that whatever they do or say, they must keep in mind the interests of others. Cooperation in a group takes precedence over individual responsibility, authority, or initiative.

THE APPEARANCE OF HARMONY

The Japanese believe that surface harmony must be maintained. In doing business with the Japanese, the relationship is just as (or may be more) important than the business itself is. Logic and facts alone reflect a coldness and insensitivity to human nature. For the Japanese, respect, sensitivity, and harmony are sometimes more important than the truth. From a Western perspective, it is like keeping the peace with "little white lies" if necessary. An example might be telling a host how delicious a terrible meal is.

DON'T SAY "NO"

The Japanese try to avoid confrontations and direct questions that might create discomfort or a loss of face. The Japanese are not direct, open, or frank. Often they are criticized for being too vague, but their real intentions might be to respect and develop a relationship.

PRESENTATION

For the Japanese, the form is often more important than the content. The way something is said is just as important as what is actually said. The manner in which the food is presented at the table is as important as the taste of the food. The gift wrapping and presentation of a gift can be more important than the gift itself.

STATUS

The Japanese have a strong sense of hierarchy, rank, position or status at all times. This non-verbal code dictates what is appropriate behaviour for each situation. It makes it very clear who should pay respect to whom.

WOMEN

Traditionally, the role of the Japanese woman is to be at home, raising the children. Japanese wives usually have strict control over household affairs including the finances of the family and the all important decisions on education for the children. In the world of business, you do not usually see Japanese women in management positions. Wives or girlfriends do not accompany businessmen to dinners or to evening entertainment. There are of course, many women who work as clerks or O.L.'s (office ladies) until they marry.