consensus (noun)
a general agreement among a group of people
Example Sentence: The team reached a consensus on the best course of action.
rank (noun)
a person's position in a hierarchy or society
Example Sentence: He held a high rank in the military.
modest (adjective)
not excessively showy or proud; humble
Example Sentence: She wore a modest dress to the party.
humble (adjective)
having or showing a modest or low estimate of one's own importance
Example Sentence: He remained humble despite his success.
customs (noun)
traditional practices or habits of a particular social group or community
Example Sentence: They celebrated their cultural customs during the festival.
Japan has a special way of doing business. They have their own customs and traditions. In Japan, how you look is really important. People there dress more formally than in Australia. When it comes to dressing for work, Japanese wear conservative clothes that match everyone else's, such as dark suits, shirts, and ties.
Moreover, they take business cards very seriously and exchange them early on in a meeting. This helps the Japanese know the other person's job and rank. When giving and receiving a business card, use both hands and bow slightly as a sign of respect.
In Japan, family names come before given names, and it's polite to address someone by their family name followed by "san." It's also common for someone else to introduce you instead of introducing yourself. Consensus building is an essential way of making decisions in Japanese businesses. Japan has been influenced by ideas from other countries, but they have made these ideas their own and shaped their society. Age and status are very important in Japan, and people show respect based on someone's age and position in society.
Bowing is an integral aspect of Japanese culture, particularly in business settings. Individuals bow to show respect to those who are older or have a higher position. Building relationships is also highly valued in Japan. People like to get to know and trust the person before doing business with them. Additionally, being modest and humble is very important in Japan. It's better to speak softly and not move your hands around too much, as this makes you seem calm and humble.
What is the traditional way of dressing for work in Japan?
A) Colorful clothes with patterns
B) Dark suits, shirts, and plain ties
C) Casual jeans and t-shirts
D) Bright and flashy outfits
How do Japanese professionals exchange business cards?
A) They don't exchange business cards
B) They give their business cards to someone else
C) They keep their business cards to themselves
D) They exchange business cards early on in a meeting
Why is it important to address someone by their family name followed by 'san' in Japan?
A) To show that you are younger than them
B) To show respect based on someone's age and position
C) To make fun of them
D) To show that you are superior to them
Why is it important to bow in Japanese culture?
A) To show off your physical strength
B) To demonstrate your knowledge
C) To display respect towards those who are older or have a higher position
D) To challenge someone to a duel
What is the importance of building relationships in Japanese business?
A) It is not important to build relationships in Japanese business
B) Building relationships helps establish trust before doing business
C) Building relationships is only important for personal friendships
D) Building relationships is considered disrespectful in Japanese culture
1. How do you think dressing formally for work can show respect?
2. Why do you think it's important to build relationships before doing business with someone?
3. In what ways can being modest and humble help in your daily interactions with others?
4. What are some other customs and traditions in Japan that you find interesting or unique?
5. How do you think the emphasis on age and status in Japanese society affects their business culture?