Importance Of Business Culture In Japan

A. Introduction: Country

This report will provide a detailed cultural analysis of Japan, the host country, as compared to Singapore, the home country. It will also highlight on the business culture, differences between the home and host countries, as well as how the unique culture impacts international business and what businesses should consider in achieving high operation efficiency in the host country.

The rationale behind the choice of Japan as the host country for setting up a business is due to its long and interesting history; and the fact that Japan was isolated from the rest of the world and yet its culture flourished extensively makes it an even more attractive cultural destination for visitors today as well as businesses that

Business Culture

Business ethic in Japan is unique in the sense that they value manners and customs highly therefore it is critical that foreigners know the basic values and attitudes practiced by the Japanese. Japanese are aware that it is not easy for foreigners to work in Japan. They do not expect foreigners to communicate in Japanese, or be extremely attentive to their strict cultural ethics. There is always room for mistakes as long as genuine respect is shown throughout the relationship.

Japanese prefer doing business with personal relationships and referrals or recommendations are held in high regard. Respect is seen as a crucial aspect of building a business relationship. The exchange of business cards is done frequently and bowing while exchanging is seen as a sign of respect. The decision making process involves a collective responsibility as it has wide consensus whereby the leader or senior person will make the decision while the rest follows as a group. Japanese are non-confrontational and therefore disagreements are often avoided at all costs whereas they will only use gestures or signs as a way of revealing their disagreement in situations. Face-saving and harmony are critical aspects of the Japanese culture. One has to observe and look out for such signs in order to avoid the embarrassment of their Japanese

Language for conducting business in Japan is primarily Japanese, whereas the language conducted in Singapore business is English as it is the official language of the country. Therefore, a distinct difference between the host and home country is that a translator is generally required for business meetings. Another difference in business culture; Singaporeans are fast-paced, make decisions fast and they get direct to the point of business discussion (eDiplomat, 2015). In contrast with Japan’s business culture, this is the exact opposite of their slow decision-making