What cultural tips should I know for Japanese meetings

Here are key cultural tips for Japanese meetings based on the gathered information:

• Punctuality is highly valued. Arrive at least 10-15 minutes early to show respect for others’ time and professionalism. Being late is frowned upon. ^{1, 2, 3, 4}

• Begin meetings with polite small talk before transitioning to business topics. This helps establish rapport and show respect. ^{5, 6}

• Bow as a sign of respect when greeting or leaving. A quick bow is acceptable for foreigners and is appreciated. ^{2, 7, 8}

• Exchange business cards with both hands and take a moment to examine cards received. Business card etiquette is important and conveys respect. ^{3, 9, 10, 2}

• Follow the seating arrangement based on hierarchy, with the most senior person seated at the head of the table and guests seated furthest from the door. ²

• Dress formally and conservatively, typically dark suits for men with white shirts and subdued ties. ^{11, 2}

• Show attentiveness by taking notes and actively listening. Nodding and acknowledging others’ input respectfully is important. ^{3, 11}

• Avoid direct confrontation, aggressive tactics, or raising your voice. Negotiations emphasize harmony and consensus. ^{12, 2}

• Refrain from overly praising your own product or yourself, as modesty is a valued virtue in Japanese culture. ^{12, 3}

• Do not express negative emotions openly. Maintain a calm demeanor throughout the meeting. ¹²

• Accept any offered snacks or drinks politely during the meeting. ^{2, 3}

• Use honorifics like “san” with surnames when addressing people to show respect. ⁹

• Follow subtle body language cues such as mirroring bows and avoiding pointing. ¹⁰

These cultural tips help demonstrate respect, build trust, and facilitate positive interactions in Japanese meetings.

If more detailed protocol or specific situations are needed, that can be provided as well.

References

• What to know before your first Japanese business meeting

• A Guide to Japanese Business Etiquette

• Business Manners & Etiquette in Japan

• Business culture in Japan

• Meetings with Japanese – Rules and Etiquette for internal …

• Japanese Business Etiquette and Culture

• GUIDE Understanding and Mastering Japanese Manners …

• How To Behave When Meeting Japanese People

• Japanese Business Etiquette

• Japanese Business Meeting Etiquette Dos & Don’ts

• How to behave with japanese

• Top Ten Do’s & Don’ts Japanese Cultural & Business Etiquette

• Japan - Cultural Etiquette - e Diplomat

• Business Etiquette in Japan - Your Ultimate Guide (2024)

• Business Culture & Etiquette in Japan

• Japanese Business Manners and Etiquette

• Secrets Of Japanese Business Etiquette: Business Meetings

• A Guide to Japanese Business Etiquette

• 17 Definitive Tips to Do Business With the Japanese