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Dec 05

Effective Global Leadership – Have You Got What It Takes?

Cross Cultural Training, Culture, Culture training for Business & Management No Comments »

In an increasingly interconnected and multicultural world, we are constantly challenged when interacting with individuals from different cultural backgrounds. Cultural differences can create significant misunderstandings and conflict that can negatively impact global business. However, cultural differences can also be a resource that can add enormous value to any global organisation. Effective global leadership requires a global mindset. In other words, effective global leaders have the ability to identify and successfully manage and harness cultural differences.

Businessman making Presentation i Effective Global Leadership – Have You Got What It Takes?

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Global leaders who demonstrate a strong global mindset will be better equipped to maximise cultural differences and perspectives which can lead to increased opportunities, value and innovation in their teams. As Jim Turley points out in a recent article in Bloomberg Businessweek about the ‘new global mindset’, “Developing an inclusive culture where all team members can successfully bring their perspectives to the table becomes essential. The research is clear: Well-managed, diverse teams will outperform homogenous teams.” Global leaders who thrive at creating and leading culturally diverse teams around the globe will find greater long-term success.

What is a ‘global mindset’?

A global mindset is what global leaders need to make the most of the cross-cultural diversity of both the company and of the global market where it does business. A global mindset involves three key characteristics: psychological, intellectual and social.

Someone with a global mindset will be passionate about diversity, enthusiastic about new adventures and capable of adapting in unfamiliar global environments. This motivation to try new things is helped by their existing intellect and knowledge of the cultures they are operating in as well as their interest and ability to constantly learn more about them.

Leaders with a global mindset have the ability to look at things from other perspectives and adapt their behaviour accordingly. This in turn helps them to effectively interact with culturally and linguistically different people through actively listening, showing them respect and empathy and building trust.

How do you develop a global mindset?

International exposure, internal mentoring programmes and cross cultural training courses like Effective Global Leadership all contribute to the development of a global mindset. Here are just a few ways you can develop a broader global mindset:

  • International exposure can be achieved through personal research on cultural subjects and world economic and political issues. Reading international newspapers, speaking to international counterparts and keeping updated about global issues can help you to better understand differences across cultures.
  • Short and long-term international travel can be a great way to develop a better understanding of the world. Keep your eyes open for new projects at work where you could get involved with colleagues or counterparts from other cultures. Organisations with a matrix structure or a wide global presence usually have plenty of opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration. Make sure the right people know you are interested in getting involved, either through formal or informal channels, and you never know what may come along.
  • Internal mentoring programmes are also a great way to get advice and tips for expanding your global mindset. Moreover, they provide you with the chance of meeting other leaders acting in a global environment who can share inspiring experiences that you can learn from.
  • A cross-cultural training course like Effective Global Leadership can also help you to develop the skills you need and build relationships with people in international roles. An Effective Global Leadership course gives you opportunities to develop your cultural knowledge and understanding to help you to face any cross-cultural challenge more effectively.

Stay ahead of the game and get involved at a more competitive level by working on developing your global mindset little by little. The combination of informal initiatives that take a few minutes a day with more formalised methods such as training or a mentoring programme can enable you to create a world of global opportunities!

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2011

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Dec 01

Living and Working in the UK: Harnessing the Best of British Culture

Cross Cultural Training, Cultural training for Relocation, Culture No Comments »

Every culture has a unique set of stereotypes that have been formed and reinforced throughout the years and the UK is no exception. Even in some of the most popular guides Britain and its population are presented in such a way that confirms what many consider as typical British peculiarities. Anyone living and working in the UK however should be aware that many of these cultural stereotypes are not always true in every situation.

Westminster Graeme Purdy i Living and Working in the UK: Harnessing the Best of British Culture

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The UK does not always have a very good reputation abroad. Brits are often seen as a mass of overweight people with a terrible sense of humour and the inability to cook good food. Some believe that Brits will never skip their sacred afternoon tea ritual which is usually followed by a simple dinner such as fish and chips or a greasy meat pie. Many think that these meals are usually eaten in local pubs, accompanied by a pint of beer, and followed by scenes of public drunkenness.  While many Brits enjoy having a cup of tea or evening meal out in the pub, the idea that they do these things every single day is indeed a cultural stereotype that has been built up over generations.

Some stereotypes and perceptions of Brits are more neutral and positive. For example Brits are well known for their British values of fair play and keeping calm in the face of adversity. These attitudes of honesty, equality and calmness are ever present in many British behaviours, but not more so than in the “art of queuing”. Brits are well known for their ability and need to queue, whatever the situation. In fact the need to respect and master this art of queueing is considered so important in British society that understanding how to queue properly has been included in the new citizenship tests immigrants have to take.

One book that looks closely at British behaviours is Watching the English: the Hidden Rules of English Behaviours by Kate Fox. In this anthropological study of the English population, Fox traces behavioural rules that seem to govern every aspect of English life. There are chapters about how Brits behave at work, in the pub, on the bus and at home. She also looks at how Brits talk, what they talk about, how they dress and many other social topics.

Through her research Fox identified what she calls a social “dis-ease” that governs every aspect of British behaviour. She argues that there is a constant awkwardness, embarassment and clumsiness that characterises any kind of British social interaction. Although Fox’s book might be perceived as an exaggeration and reinforcement of many British stereotypes, it can be an extremely useful resource for people who have never had much contact with Brits.

Whether or not you have had some contact with British culture, be aware of the many cultural idiosyncrasies and underlying values that will impact how your British counterparts think and behave. For example, when living and working in the UK, it can be very beneficial to understand British irony and humour which plays a big, although very implicit, role in communication that can often go unnoticed.

Knowing how to approach your British counterparts and build relationships with them will help you to ensure that you avoid any cultural faux-pas or wasted time. Reading books like that written by Kate Fox is one way of improving your understanding of British culture. This combined with a cross cultural training course such as Living and Working in the UK will help you to ensure that you effectively break down and interpret the many stereotypes that exist about British culture so that you react appropriately in any British context.

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2011

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Nov 24

Thanksgiving Day

Cross Cultural Training, Cultural training for Relocation, Culture No Comments »

Can you already smell roasted turkey with stuffing and pumpkin pie? Can you hear the noise of football matches? Yes, you’re right, it’s Thanksgiving. Every year on the fourth Thursday of November Americans gather together to celebrate Thanksgiving. This tradition has been rooted in American culture for centuries, so if you are living and working in the USA or planning to do so, you should be aware of its importance and the impact it has on life and business in the USA.

Thanksgiving Christmas Dinner Sean Locke i Thanksgiving Day

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Where does Thanksgiving come from?

What is considered as the first Thanksgiving in American history took place in 1621 in Plymouth plantations, where Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared a successful harvest feast. This was held to celebrate God and thank him for having guided the colonists safely to the New World. The celebration was then observed first as a religious tradition and, later, as a civil one. During the Civil War in 1863 Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving Day as a national holiday to be celebrated each November.

How is Thanksgiving celebrated?

Thanksgiving has now lost its original religious meaning for most American families. The focus of the celebration is now on spending quality time together and sharing a good meal. So what are the key ingredients of a good Thanksgiving meal? Turkey is the centrepiece of Thanksgiving and has become the main symbol of the holiday. It was probably not included in the first meal the Pilgrims shared with the Indians, but what is sure is that around 90% of Americans eat it on Thanksgiving. Either roasted, fried or baked, the turkey is usually accompanied by stuffing, potatoes, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie. In addition to cooking and eating which takes a large portion of the day, Americans like to gather together to watch football, participate in parades or volunteer. Many Americans will start their Christmas shopping on the day after Thanksgiving which is often referred to as Black Friday.

Thanksgiving Tips

If you are living and working in the USA, make sure you participate in Thanksgiving celebrations and make the most of this experience. Giving the right importance to this event is central for you to integrate into American society, build friendships and make the most of your stay. Here are some tips on how to do that:

  • Do not expect your American colleagues on Thanksgiving Day. Remember: it is a national holiday and offices are kept closed all day
  • Thank your colleagues for their hard work, collaboration or companionship with a Thanksgiving card or a simple note on the day
  • If you are hosting a Thanksgiving dinner, accept with enthusiasm any food your guests offer to bring
  • If you are invited to dinner bring a gift and write a thank you note
  • Show an interest in American football games as these are often a big part of Thanksgiving celebrations
  • If invited to someone’s home, offer to help with the preparations. Thanksgiving is a family affair and almost everyone plays a role in getting it all ready, even guests

If you are planning to move to the USA or work with American counterparts you might want to improve your knowledge about American culture by attending a cultural awareness training programme like Living and Working in the USA. It will teach you more about American customs, traditions and values and help you develop the skills to build better relationships with your American colleagues.

Happy Thanksgiving!

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2011

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Nov 03

Bonfire Night: An Essential British Experience for Anyone Living and Working in Great Britain

Cross Cultural Training, Cultural training for Relocation, Culture No Comments »

Every year on 5 November people in Great Britain celebrate Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night. Anyone living and working in Great Britain should be aware of this tradition as it can be a great opportunity to experience local culture and socialise with friends and family. Understanding British customs and traditions can also help you to more effectively integrate into British society and establish better working relationships with your British counterparts.

Fireworks ludwig wagner i Bonfire Night: An Essential British Experience for Anyone Living and Working in Great Britain

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So what is Bonfire Night and how is it celebrated? Bonfire Night commemorates the events of 5 November 1605 which are sometimes also referred to as the Gunpowder Plot. The protagonist of these events was a man called Guy Fawkes who was part of a group of English Catholics who were unhappy with the protestant King. Guy Fawkes, Robert Catesby and a group of other Catholics started plotting the King’s assassination.

On the night of 5 November the conspirators attempted to kill the King by placing some explosives under the House of Lords. Their aim was to kill the King as well as many other members of the monarchy and government. One of the most active participants in this murder attempt was Guy Fawkes who was responsible for guarding the explosives in a cellar under the House of Lords. The plan was foiled and Guy Fawkes was caught in the cellar. After being tortured for several days, he confessed and was then executed.

On that same night in 1605 people set bonfires alight to celebrate the King’s survival. This tradition has been respected ever since and people all over Great Britain and in some Commonwealth nations like New Zealand and Australia celebrate this day with bonfires and fireworks. In addition to bonfires and fireworks, some will make “guys” – effigies of Guy Fawkes made out of old clothes and newspapers that will then be burnt in the bonfires.

Another tradition observed on this day is the State Opening of Parliament. Ever since these events of 1605, the King or Queen will traditionally only enter Parliament once a year on 5 November. Before the event, the cellars of the Palace of Westminster are inspected by the Yeomen of the Guard to assure the monarch’s safety and commemorate and celebrate the historical event.

Being aware of traditions and customs like this can help anyone living and working in Great Britain to understand the culture. Attending a cross cultural training programme like Living and Working in Great Britain will provide you with all the information you need about British customs and traditions like Bonfire Night as well as other useful information on British social and business culture.

So if you are living and working in Great Britain be sure to take part in one of the events going on in London or other cities in Great Britain this weekend.

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2011

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Oct 26

Diwali – The Festival of Lights

Cross Cultural Training, Cultural training for Relocation, Culture No Comments »

Diwali is one of the most important Hindu festivals. During this festival, houses are illuminated with a myriad of candles and small lamps called Diyas. The name Diwali is an abbreviation of the word Deepavali which literally means “row of lights”. Most people refer to this holiday in English as the “Festival of Lights”. Diwali usually occurs between mid-October and mid-November and lasts for five days. Anyone living and working in India or doing business with Indian counterparts should be aware of the importance of this holiday and how it impacts Indian culture and life each year.

Diwali Diyas© Kulpreet Photography i5 Diwali – The Festival of Lights

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Celebrations of Diwali in India have ancient religious origins. Each of the five days of this festival celebrates a particular legend or story. The first day of Diwali, for example, is Dhanteras and usually marks the beginning of the financial year as it is believed to be a time for wealth and prosperity. On this first day of the festival people pray to the Goddess of Wealth, Lakshmi, who people guide into their homes by lighting candles and diyas in their houses and on the streets.

Another legend commemorated during Diwali is about Rama and his wife Sita who he saved from the demon Ravana before returning to Ayodhya to become king. On their way back, Rama and his wife could not see as it was a very dark night, so people placed lamps outside their houses to help them find their way home.

Diwali is celebrated in different ways across India and other countries. For example people in Northern India tend to celebrate Rama’s legend while in Gujarat and Maharashtra they celebrate the Goddess Lakshmi more. In Nepal the festival focuses on the defeat of the demon king Narakaasura by Lord Krishna, while in Bengal they tend to focus on celebrating the Goddess Kali. Despite these differences, there are a few main ideas that remain the same everywhere: light triumphs over darkness, good supersedes evil and knowledge prevails over ignorance.

Before the start of Diwali festivals people redecorate their homes and draw traditional motifs of ‘rangoli’ at the entrances. They also wear new clothes and prepare big festive meals. People also decorate their houses lighting Diyas and big firework displays in celebration are a tradition.

During Diwali one of the most important rituals is the exchange of gifts to show love and affection to family members and friends. Even people who live far from their families usually send greetings and gifts to their beloved at home. Common gifts are flowers, sweets, dry fruit and nuts, clothes and silver or gold items such as jewellery or other decorative objects.

Diwali is celebrated around the world by Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs and Jains. Anyone living and working in India or other countries including Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Singapore should be aware of how Diwali impacts daily life in this period.

Here are some tips to help you show respect and work effectively with your Indian counterparts during this holiday.

  • Plan meetings without interfering with Diwali’s celebration. Be aware that a lot of business people will take the day off in preparation for a new accounting year and to spend time with their families.
  • Don’t set any project deadlines that coincide with Diwali.
  • If you work regularly with people who celebrate Diwali, you can show respect for their tradition and your relationship by giving them a small gift such as a box of sweets or nuts. If you cannot give them a gift, a small greeting by email would also be appreciated.
  • Indians tend to spend lots of money on the first day of Diwali buying presents and shopping in general, so if you are with them accept any generosity graciously.
  • Don’t say “no” to an invite to Diwali celebrations. This can be a great to way to build relationships with your colleagues and experience a unique cultural festival.
  • If invited to Diwali celebrations, or if sharing a meal with colleagues who celebrate Diwali, avoid drinking alcohol.

Cross cultural awareness training programmes like Living and Working in India or Doing Business in India can provide you with the essential knowledge you need about the country and its culture. By showing an understanding of key Indian traditions or holidays like Diwali, you can build more effective social and business relationships which will create more value in the long-term.

Don’t forget to send your colleagues a traditional Diwali greeting in the appropriate language!

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2011

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Sep 15

Working Effectively across Cultures: Understanding the Rules behind Intercultural Greetings

Cross Cultural Training, Culture 2 Comments »

Touching is arguably one of the most sensitive aspects of interacting, whether in a business or social context. When interactions take place with people from different cultural backgrounds, touching becomes even more difficult to grasp as the very perception of touching and the meaning behind physical contact can differ widely across cultures. Working effectively across cultures requires the ability to understand what kind of physical contact is appropriate and when in different contexts.

Business Woman shaking hands i Working Effectively across Cultures: Understanding the Rules behind Intercultural Greetings

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Simon Kuper, a British expatriate living in Paris recently shared several anecdotes of experiences he had visiting friends in the UK in an article published in the Financial Times. After living in Paris for some time, he and his wife grew accustomed to many French habits. When he returned to the UK he found that his British family and friends were surprised when he greeted them in the typical French way with a kiss on each cheek. Interested in this concept, Kuper also looked at how people greet each other in the US and discovered many differences when compared to French customs and behaviours around physical contact.

Based on his experience, Kuper suggests that the French tend to “sexualise” initial meetings between people even if no romance is involved between the participants. There is no such feeling when Brits or Americans greet each other. In fact, Brits and Americans appreciate having personal space and will tend to avoid touch as much as possible, except with close family or friends who they may greet with a small hug or kiss on the cheek. Anything beyond this may be perceived as an invasion of personal space and could cause offense or an unintended reaction.

This concept of personal space might be difficult to understand when working across cultures. A physical gesture which is considered appropriate in one culture might be frowned upon in another and vice-versa. Breaching someone’s personal space might cause uneasiness or misunderstanding that could lead to cross-cultural clashes or incidents.

From how you greet someone or console a team member to how you congratulate an acquaintance, it’s important to develop your understanding of how to communicate physically to avoid any cultural faux-pas or cultural misinterpretation when working across cultures. A Working Effectively across Cultures programme is a great first step towards understanding how you are perceived and how you need to adapt your behaviours in a global context so that you have the right impact.

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2011

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Aug 10

Time at Work: Business Reality Contradicts Popular Cultural Stereotypes

Cross Cultural Training, Culture 1 Comment »

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) recently published a study about how much time people dedicate to work in different countries around the world. The initial survey was conducted across the 26 OECD member countries as well as China, India and South Africa. The survey required people from the ages of 15 to 64 to describe what they did on a typical day. The results of the survey are very interesting, particularly as they tend to contradict the many stereotypes that exist about how much time people spend doing business in other cultures.

Business People biffspandex 2 i Time at Work: Business Reality Contradicts Popular Cultural Stereotypes

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Indeed, the cliché of a lazy Mexican, tired from the sun and sleeping in a hammock appears to be absolutely wrong as the study shows that Mexicans actually work the hardest. They work the longest days, are less paid compared to western countries, and also spend a lot of time doing chores at home. The image that Mexicans often portray through their more laid back cultural values and focus on relationships and family is deeply engrained in people’s minds as a culture which does not work very hard.

This is just one popular cultural stereotype that was proven wrong by the OECD study. Considering how many stereotypes can be misconstrued or false, it’s important to always look deeper than what you find on the surface to make sure that the assumption or judgement you have about a particular culture is accurate. Doing business in another culture can be hindered through inaccurate stereotypes or generalisations.

For instance the idea that French never work, often supported by coverage of the’35-hour work week’, is countered by the statistics that show that the French appear to be some of the most productive employees in the world. Some incorrectly believe that countries in Eastern Europe take the most holidays when they actually take fewer days than most of the developed countries in the European Union. In fact Germany not only has a high number of holidays, but its workforce spends the least amount of time working in the OECD.

Many cultural stereotypes are even more questionable as opinions tend to vary widely depending on whether the people are working in their home country or living in another as immigrants. For example, Mexicans in the US are seen as very hard workers who often work long hours and do harsh jobs, an image far from that we illustrated earlier.

By creating and supporting stereotypes that contradict real facts, people can risk making bad decisions based on false assumptions that could harm their business significantly. It’s important therefore to always question cultural stereotypes and check how accurate they may be. It is possible to use cultural stereotypes to your advantage as they can help you to simplify situations and anticipate behaviour across cultures, however if you are wrong you may find yourself facing drastic circumstances.

If you are doing business in another culture or if you are working with international counterparts, don’t get caught up believing what you hear as a false cultural stereotype can forever alter your relationship and success with them. The best way to completely understand the cultures you are doing business in is to participate in a cross-cultural awareness training programme. By providing you with detailed information about beliefs, values and behaviours you will find in the target culture, training will better equip you to break down stereotypes and build stronger business relationships based on cross-cultural trust.

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2011

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Aug 01

Becoming an Internationalist – Developing Cross Cultural Awareness

Cross Cultural Training, Culture, Culture training for Business & Management No Comments »

According to BBC World News, internationalists are a cosmopolitan group of global citizens with an international outlook and a deep cross cultural awareness.  Internationalists tend to be very successful in business, largely due to their global understanding of the world and cross-cultural leadership skills.

To give you a better idea of what an internationalist might look like let’s take a look at Tom.

Globe Kasia i Becoming an Internationalist Developing Cross Cultural Awareness

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Tom was born in the UK, raised in France and studied in Mexico. At the age of 37, Tom speaks English, French and Spanish fluently. Tom has an important role as a manager in an international company and spends a lot of time travelling around the world for business and leisure. Tom’s exposure and familiarity with many different cultures has helped him to develop a high level of cross cultural awareness which helps him do business successfully around the world.

When he travels, Tom values experiencing and discovering different values and traditions. He shows enormous respect towards the new cultures he visits and always tries to understand and appreciate the local rites rather than impose his own culture and vision of the world. Tom actively seeks dialogue with locals and is not afraid to experience local food and customs. Keen to learn and adapt to as many situations as he can, Tom has a truly global mindset. In other words, Tom is acutely aware of global issues and how geopolitical and cultural forces impact international business.

Tom is an important decision maker and has developed strong cross-cultural negotiation and influencing skills through his various experiences where he has brilliantly succeeded. Indeed, his global state of mind helps him to value diversity and seek people from different cultures and backgrounds rather than people similar to himself.

Tom is an early adopter and always tries to have the latest technology that help him to stay connected to the world. Tom’s smartphone, iPad and laptop all help him to actively follow international media. Through reading news magazines and newspapers, watching news channels in hotel rooms and in-flight entertainment on planes such as CNN International and BBC World News, Tom stays up-to-date with the latest happenings in the global arena.

Tom and his wife Liz are working hard to ensure that their children develop a similar global mindset and awareness and openness to different cultures by speaking to them in different languages and taking them on trips around the world.

Tom is fairly unique in his ability to adapt to other cultures and sees the world through a truly global lens, however with some effort, anyone can develop the skills required to be effective in an international environment. Cross cultural awareness training is one way people can improve their international skills. Volunteering to manage international projects, travelling to different countries on holiday and speaking to people from different cultures within your organisation can all help you to work more effectively internationally.

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2011

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Jun 15

Top Tips for Doing Business in China

Cross Cultural Training, Culture, Culture training for Business & Management No Comments »

China has seen massive economic development during the past quarter of a century and its economy is now the second largest in the world. With the recent agreements to increase UK – China trade, the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing and China’s Sovereign Wealth Fund earmarked for outward investment, it is clear that China is a nation of ever increasing opportunity for western business.

Chinese laterns 3 tom hall i Top Tips for Doing Business in China

© istockphoto.com/Tom Hall

The western visitor to modern China will observe many outward indications of cultural difference such as eating rituals and gift giving. However, it is an understanding of the underlying values and attitudes, often underpinned by age old traditions and many years of history, that can really help you to get to grips with Chinese culture when doing business in China.

Good relationships are absolutely vital when doing business in China. A central concept in Chinese culture is ‘Guanxi’ (loosely translated as ‘relationships’ or ‘connections’). Guanxi is a network of elaborate relationships promoting trust and cooperation. Establishing a sincere, supportive relationship based on mutual respect is a fundamental aspect of Chinese culture. In business, having the right guanxi is crucial for minimising the difficulties and frustrations that are often encountered when doing business in China.

The following tips will help you ensure that you maximise your opportunities for doing business in China.

Remember that good working relationships are absolutely vital in China. Long-term relationships are valued much more than hurried transactions.

  • Show interest in Chinese history and culture. A little knowledge will go a long way.
  • Never criticise a Chinese colleague in front of someone else or do anything else to cause them loss of face or ‘mianzi’.
  • Always refer to your Chinese counterparts by their titles and family name, unless instructed otherwise.
  • Chinese business people tend to enter a meeting room in hierarchical order. You should always try to do the same, and where uncertain ask or observe first.
  • Take time to listen attentively to your Chinese counterparts and resist the temptation to interrupt or ask too many direct questions.
  • Have your business cards printed in English on one side and Chinese on the other. Always present it to your Chinese counterparts with the Chinese side facing up.
  • Be aware of your body language and that it might communicate a different message to what you intend. Learn about the appropriate and inappropriate gestures before doing business in China to avoid causing offense or misunderstanding.
  • Try to keep negotiations calm and impersonal. Excessive displays of emotion are usually not respected in China.
  • Avoid making political comments about Chinese national or foreign policy.

Considering and respecting the top tips for doing business in China above is the first step towards building effective relationships with your Chinese counterparts. Participating in a cross cultural awareness training course such as Doing Business in China will give you a deeper insight to the cultural differences you may find in China and the ability to anticipate and manage them effectively.

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2011

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May 31

Top Tips for Doing Business in Japan

Cross Cultural Training, Cultural training for Relocation, Culture, Culture training for Business & Management, Culture training for Human Resources, Culture training for the Public sector 1 Comment »

Japan has evolved over the last half century to become one of the world’s richest and most technologically advanced economies, well known for its exports of cars and electronic goods. In addition, a well educated population with an incredibly strong work ethic means that Japan offers a wealth of investment and market opportunities to international organisations.

Made up of over 3,000 islands, Japan has some of the most crowded urban areas in the world since the majority of people live on only a few of the islands. It is not surprising then that personal space is highly valued in Japan and gestures and facial expressions tend to be modest when doing business in Japan.

Japan Chris Pritchard i Top Tips for Doing Business in Japan

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As an island country, Japan’s population has remained extremely homogenous and you will find a strong sense of group identity when doing business in Japan. The distinction between private and public life is blurred where teamwork and ‘fitting in’ are much more important than individualism in Japan. That being said, the younger generation of Japanese starting to enter the business world are increasingly making efforts to stand out from the crowd in the way they dress, communicate and act.

During the tragic events that occurred in March 2011, the world also witnessed another Japanese value: the importance of maintaining face and dignity at all times. Most foreigners living and working in Japan at the time were struck by the calm nature and self-control displayed by the local population during and after the earthquake and the tsunami that led to a nuclear situation. The importance of face and dignity are values that can be found in almost every aspect of Japanese social and business cultures so you will often find that your Japanese counterparts will seldom display their emotions or feelings in order to keep face.

The following tips will help you improve your success when doing business in Japan.

  • Avoid causing loss of face at all costs. Don’t be confrontational or openly criticise or embarrass Japanese colleagues as they will lose ‘kao’, or face.
  • Be aware that Japanese business culture is hierarchical. Be sure you always greet the most senior people in the room before anyone more junior.
  • Don’t be afraid of silence as it causes less anxiety than in the West and is often used as a negotiating tactic.
  • Be aware of your body language and try to maintain a formal posture during meetings. Avoid slumping or crossing your legs as this could give a negative impression.
  • Make sure you take plenty of business cards with you and have your details printed in Japanese on the reverse when doing business in Japan.
  • Japan is a country with a high usage of technology which most of the population has access to. You can expect your Japanese colleagues to be comfortable with virtual communication, however as they are relationship focused you should always try to find time for face-to-face meetings.
  • Avoid physical contact or expansive gestures and facial expressions when doing business in Japan. Most Japanese are modest and reserved in their behaviour and value the space around them.
  • Address your business partners by their surname. To show even more respect, add ‘san’ after their surname. For example, Akira Kurosawa could be addressed as Mr Akira Kurosawa or Kurosawa San.
  • Offer your Japanese counterparts a small gift when meeting or visiting them. Your gift should be well wrapped but modest and not too personal. Don’t expect them to open it in front of you as this may cause loss of face to one of the parties.
  • Relationships and networks are a key part of Japanese business culture. Many international companies doing business in Japan find more success when they rely on a third party to help introduce them and build their reputation in the market.

Considering and respecting the top tips for doing business in Japan above is the first step towards building effective relationships with your Japanese counterparts. Participating in a cross cultural awareness training course such as Doing Business in Japan will give you a comprehensive understanding of this dynamic and fast-changing culture so that you can anticipate and manage cultural differences more effectively and build better business relationships.

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2011

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