Networking in Japan is unique because of its almost artful aspect, as it’s steeped in formality. But once you’ve got the art down, you slowly build your credibility which paves the way for seamless connections and the gradual expansion of your social circle. It’s incredibly important to understand communication styles in order to even begin getting the art down. Japanese business communication is often indirect and subtle. You must read between the lines because Japanese people tend to stick to what they know is polite. Rochelle Kopp, founder, and managing principal at Japan Intercultural Consulting, discusses this more thoroughly in our podcast episode on Japanese Business Culture.
It may be difficult to begin but the expat community is supportive and is easier to break into. To start, getting to know each other is an important step, and the introduction is where you set the impression they have of you.
How are Japanese Titles Used in Business?
Japanese titles are an instant sign of respecting someone else because they express how you view the other person with just one word. This politeness and respect is highly valued in the business world and in Japanese culture in general. There are a few rules to using honorifics but in general, use the person’s last name with the honorific san as using the first name is much too comfortable for a first meeting in Japan. The honorific sama mainly refers to customers or clients. In other situations, you may need to use an actual title. The following is a breakdown of which title to use when networking in Japan and with whom.
How Does One Use Business Cards in Japan AKA Meishi?
The exchange of business cards or meishi koukan is bahrain phone number library deeply rooted in Japanese etiquette and when networking in Japan, from practices established centuries past. Not having a business card can imply insignificance or nonexistence in Japanese business circles, so it’s important to carry one with you. Here, we’ll discuss the basic know-how of using business cards or Meishi in Japan, but for a more in-depth guide, refer to our article on Japanese Business Cards.
To start the process, you should first find a suitable business card printing servicer. If you’re unfamiliar with Japanese printing shops, there are services that offer business card printing in English to assist you in crafting your own professional cards. Among them, here are a few shops that each provide Japanese business cards:
- Mojo cheap business card and easy English process
- Printpac cheap business cards but no English process
- Monkeyprint – Japan for printing business cards with design services
- Primeprint for high-quality business cards
When presenting your card while networking in Japan, offer it with a respectful bow and an introduction. Hold the card by its top corner to ensure logos and names are visible, extending it with your right hand. Remember to include a bow while presenting the card, and incorporate the Japanese phrase Hajime-mashite, signifying ‘nice to meet you,’ along with your name in Japanese. When receiving someone else’s card while networking in Japan, accept it using both hands, holding it at a lowered position, not above your chest. Express gratitude for the card during this exchange.
Common mistakes people make when networking in Japan
Sensitivity is a necessity when exploring the jungle of networking in Japan. While forging connections can be rewarding, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that can hinder successful interactions. By understanding and sidestepping these errors, you can foster meaningful relationships and make the most of your networking endeavors in the Japanese business landscape.
- Don’t ask for a sale/introduction too quickly
Building a relationship and trust is crucial in any interaction while networking in Japan, whether it’s a business deal or a personal introduction. Pushing for a sale or asking for an introduction too quickly can come across as aggressive or insincere. It’s important to establish a rapport and understand the other person’s needs and interests before making any direct requests. Taking the time to listen, understand, and provide value can lead to more successful outcomes in the long run.
Don’t correct a Japanese person’s English
No one is perfect in a language, especially when the language isn’t native to the country. By correcting a Japanese person’s English, you embarrass the speaker and change the dynamic of the meeting. They probably won’t want to meet you again because of what they’ve chalked up you to be.
Don’t jump into Japanese too quickly when the person wants to speak English
When someone is trying to communicate in a language they’re learning, it’s considerate to give them the opportunity to practice and improve. If the person expresses their desire to speak in English, respect their choice and engage in English-speaking conversations. Jumping into Japanese too quickly might hinder their language development and discourage them from practicing English. However, if they initiate the conversation using Japanese or signal that they would like to switch, then it’s appropriate to switch languages.
Don’t skip personal introductions and get to know each other time
The worst thing you can do while networking in Japan would be to make the interaction feel transactional. No person wants to feel used and furthermore, they won’t likely remember you if you don’t tell them anything about yourself. It’s important to have a self-introduction prepared and get to know the person on the other end. We’ll be discussing self-introductions or Jikōshōkai in the next section.
How to thrive in networking in Japan
Thriving in networking in Japan demands a what to look for in an influencer relationship management software dedicated commitment to understanding and adhering to nuanced cultural expectations. This entails embracing the strong reliance on trusted relationships and thus referrals, drinking parties, geographically different networking styles, and even language barriers. By authentically immersing oneself in these customs, individuals can bridge cultural divides, showcase sincerity, and ultimately cultivate enduring relationships that enrich both their professional network and personal growth. To learn more about other etiquette rules, read our article on Japanese Business Etiquette.
How Does One Utilize Jikōshōkai and Referrals?
Jikōshōkai, or self-introduction, is a key element in Japanese networking, allowing individuals to concisely share their background and skills. A well-crafted Jikōshōkai can lead to referrals, as it reflects genuine enthusiasm and a true character. Referrals can then be nurtured through reciprocal interactions, gratitude, and a commitment to mutual success, enhancing one’s professional network in Japan. Much of the Japanese business landscape hires based on referrals and in order to get to that stage, you need to establish your character.
To create a successful Jikōshōkai, customize it with the following.
- Occupation. Introduce yourself with your job title such as the ones in the How are Japanese Titles Used in Business section. Only introduce your company name if it’s a professional business setting or a networking event, as otherwise, it wouldn’t seem humble.
- School. The university pool in Japan contact lists doesn’t number so high so stating which one you come from might form more of an idea on your background. For Japanese university students with no experience, this is a great option to start with. Simply starting your university and saying you’ve graduated from there is enough but try not to be too pretentious with your word choice.
- Residence. Where you live is a common question you’ll get, especially if you don’t look completely Japanese. So, it’s not strange to include it in your self-introduction.