As the President of Ani.me, I’ve had the privilege of traveling to Japan to build business connections, explore opportunities, and immerse myself in the local culture. Japan is a unique place to do business, with its own set of challenges and rewards. My experiences there have taught me valuable lessons, not just about business, but also about understanding and respecting a culture that is rich, complex, and deeply rooted in tradition.
1. Respect for Hard Work and Dedication
One of the first things that struck me about Japan was the incredible work ethic. My friend Ai-chan, who works as an engineer, is a perfect example of this. Despite engineers being paid relatively modestly compared to other countries, the expectations placed on them are enormous. Ai-chan is often called into work at odd hours, sometimes even in the middle of the night, disrupting her personal life. She tries to hang out with us, but her boss often pulls her away right in the middle of hanging out.
This level of dedication is a key lesson for anyone doing business in Japan: respect the hard work and commitment of your colleagues and employees. In Japan, work is more than just a job; it’s a significant part of one’s identity. Understanding this can help in building strong, respectful relationships with your Japanese counterparts.
2. The Value of Community and Connection
Another important lesson comes from my friend Mao-chan, who organizes events as a way to connect with friends and her community. She started these events as a small side business, but they’ve grown into something much more meaningful. Through Mao-chan, I’ve learned about the value of community in Japan. Business here is often built on relationships and trust, rather than just transactions.
Mao-chan’s events are not just about making money; they are about fostering connections and building a sense of community. This is crucial for anyone looking to do business in Japan: focus on building strong relationships and networks. In Japan, who you know can be just as important as what you know.
3. Personal Responsibility and Professionalism
My friend Hiroshi offers a different kind of lesson. Hiroshi has a habit of drinking too much and changing jobs frequently, which is quite unusual in Japan, where loyalty to one’s employer is typically seen as a virtue. The last time we went out to eat, Hiroshi’s behavior was embarrassing. He annoyed the waiter by asking unnecessary questions and wasting her time while he was drunk.
This incident highlighted an important lesson about personal responsibility and professionalism. In Japan, there is a strong sense of responsibility to act appropriately in social and professional settings. This is especially important in business, where maintaining a good reputation is crucial. Hiroshi’s actions serve as a reminder of the importance of being mindful of how you conduct yourself, especially in a professional context.
4. Customer Service is Paramount
One of the most remarkable aspects of doing business in Japan is the exceptional level of customer service. Every time I enter a shop or restaurant, I am greeted warmly and helped immediately. The shopkeepers and staff don’t scroll on their phones or ignore customers; they prioritize service above all else.
This focus on customer service is a lesson in itself. In Japan, the customer is treated with the utmost respect, and providing excellent service is seen as a fundamental part of doing business. For anyone looking to succeed in Japan, adopting this approach can make a significant difference. It’s not just about selling a product or service; it’s about creating a positive experience for the customer.
5. Language Barriers and Communication
Communication is key in any business, and this is especially true in Japan, where language can be a significant barrier. I’ve had several experiences where restaurant owners were hesitant to serve me because they were worried about making mistakes due to the language barrier. However, when they heard me speak Japanese, they visibly relaxed and became more accommodating.
This experience taught me an important lesson about the importance of making an effort to understand and respect the local language and customs. In Japan, even a small effort to speak Japanese can go a long way in building rapport and trust. It’s about showing respect for the culture and making things easier for others.
6. Patience and Precision
Japan is known for its attention to detail and precision, whether it’s in manufacturing, service, or even everyday interactions. This precision is also evident in the business world. Decisions are often made carefully, with a great deal of thought and consideration. This can sometimes be frustrating for those used to a faster pace of decision-making, but it’s an important part of the Japanese way of doing business.
Learning to be patient and understanding that decisions in Japan are often made collectively and with careful consideration is a valuable lesson. Rushing a decision or pushing too hard for a quick answer can be seen as disrespectful. Instead, taking the time to build consensus and ensuring that all details are carefully considered can lead to more successful and sustainable business relationships.
7. Adapting to Cultural Norms
Understanding and adapting to Japanese cultural norms is crucial when doing business in Japan. For example, the concept of “honne and tatemae” is an essential part of Japanese communication. “Honne” refers to a person’s true feelings and desires, while “tatemae” refers to the facade or behavior one displays in public. In business, this often means that what is said in meetings might not always reflect the true feelings of the participants.
Learning to read between the lines and understanding the subtle cues in Japanese communication can help in navigating business discussions more effectively. This also means being aware of the importance of saving face and avoiding direct confrontation or criticism, which can be damaging to business relationships.
8. The Role of Hierarchy
Hierarchy plays a significant role in Japanese business culture. Seniority is often respected, and decisions are typically made by those higher up in the hierarchy. This can sometimes lead to a slower decision-making process, but it’s important to respect this structure.
When conducting business in Japan, it’s essential to understand the hierarchical structure of the organization you’re dealing with and to address individuals appropriately based on their rank and position. This respect for hierarchy extends beyond the office as well, influencing social interactions and even seating arrangements at meetings and dinners.
9. Attention to Detail
Japanese culture places a high value on attention to detail, and this is reflected in their business practices. Whether it’s the meticulous packaging of a product or the careful preparation of a presentation, attention to detail is seen as a sign of respect and professionalism.
In business, this means that you need to be thorough and precise in your work. Small details matter, and overlooking them can be seen as a lack of respect or care. Whether you’re preparing a contract, a presentation, or even a simple email, paying attention to detail can help build trust and credibility with your Japanese counterparts.
10. Building Long-Term Relationships
Finally, one of the most important lessons I’ve learned from doing business in Japan is the importance of building long-term relationships. Unlike some cultures where business is done quickly and relationships are secondary, in Japan, building a strong, trust-based relationship is often a prerequisite for doing business.
This means that you need to be patient and willing to invest time and effort into getting to know your Japanese business partners. It’s about building trust and demonstrating your commitment to the relationship over time. This approach can lead to more successful and enduring business partnerships.
Part of the reason that my adventures in Japan go so well is that I work hard to remember people’s names and forge real connections with people. I have been friends with some of the people mentioned, like Mao-chan and Hirano-san, for nearly 10 years now.
Doing business in Japan offers a wealth of opportunities, but it also requires a deep understanding of the local culture and customs. From respecting hard work and dedication to mastering the art of customer service, the lessons I’ve learned from my experiences in Japan have been invaluable. By embracing these lessons and adapting to the unique aspects of Japanese business culture, you can build strong, lasting relationships and succeed in this dynamic and fascinating market.
This will translate well into the next awesome Japanese guests and performers we bring at the next anime convention!