Meeting with Japanese Companies
Japanese business etiquettes differ tremendously from the other parts of the world. The Japanese are formal in most of their business dealings. Meeting with Japanese Companies requires above-all understandings that accept all the business cards with the right-hand, take time to read the details and keep them together with the other cards. Do not make any notes or writings in these business cards. That is a sign of disrespect and the company might consider that rude and not do business with your company. It is better to plan ahead before going out for a Meeting with Japanese companies. As a matter of caution, do not wear a black suit and a white shirt. This is set aside for funerals only.
The Japanese do not make snap decisions when it comes to business matters. It might take an individual two or three more meetings before a deal is sealed. Remember to carry a business card as this is a must-have when it comes to doing business with the Japanese. Once such deals are sealed be sure to keep your parts of the bargain. Do not supply sub-standards goods and destroy the business relationship already built. Japanese are known for their time-keeping culture and a customer is required to call at least one hour before the meeting to confirm attendance to the meeting. Do not just pop in its gives a very bad show in business.
Lady executives should wear trouser suits or knee length skirts or dresses and make sure they are fully covered when going out for such meetings. Whether male or female, Japanese rarely shake hands and do not be the first to offer a hand-shake if none is forth-coming. Show interest in the business deal and if there is need, ask questions for further explanation. At any-time during the business dealings, do not speak ill and curse as Japanese are known not to talk-ill of their business associates at all.
Do no open a gift in-front of your host and remember to bring a gift with you each time you go for a business meeting. Japanese appreciate and value gifts, but know which gifts to buy. Interestingly, if at the meeting food is offered, the Japanese culture requires that the oldest in the group is the first to start eating. Do not eat if not sure how to go about it.