The key words for Japan: Professionalism, Patience and Perseverance!
Remember to take out insurance for Japan!
- Don’t be amateurish, be professional and precise. A few examples: leave documents at the end of the meeting or, better still, your presentation on a USB key.
- Ask for help. Sometimes it’s better to pay for the services of an intermediary specialized in Japan, a facilitator, than to waste a lot of time and money trying to do everything yourself! Don’t forget that Japan is a country of intermediaries.
- The ritual of exchanging business cards is a very important must: hand it to your interlocutor with both hands and carefully read the one you’re handed!
- Beware of misunderstandings: Speak clearly, summarize regularly, let the other person express themselves, and never assume they’ve fully understood what you’re saying!
- Stay modest and calm. Above all, don’t go into a “Latin” rage, and don’t show your feelings even if the person you’re talking to exasperates you!
- Don’t rush the pace. You need to be and remain available to your contacts, even on vacation, without rushing things. The Japanese are loyal and relationships are long-term. It’s better to lose a few weeks or months in negotiation to put all your chances on your side.
