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Essay / Differences between Japan and the United States - 1084
IntroductionThis report examines the cultural differences and similarities between Japan and the United States and presents suggestions for improving the culture. So, the culture of a country can mean comparing and understanding patterns, interactions, communication and relationships. Additionally, as trade traditions and customs have become an increasing confrontation over how to behave when crossing international borders, major changes are essential. Additionally, to improve cultural differences, my recommendations for familiarizing yourself with the country's business meetings, time, professional dress, etiquette and behavior, decision-making styles, women on the workplace, gifts, handshakes, business cards, business English, gestures/non-verbal communication and negotiations are all key tools in maintaining good relations between countries (Guffey, 2008). Business Meetings Business meetings are “formal and can focus on building a relationship based on friendliness, harmony and trust. It is customary to greet the senior manager first, others in descending order, and to use a gentle handshake with a little eye contact and a slight bow. Decisions are rarely made during meetings (Bosrock, 2014). Additionally, meetings in the United States are informal and taken very seriously. In other words, a relationship can develop after signing a contract. However, Americans must remain calm, make appropriate adjustments, respect elders, and promote harmony. Time When meeting with a senior Japanese official, Japan considers it appropriate to arrive on time or 10 minutes early. Speed is imperative in all meetings since the Japanese consider lateness to be rude and can have a negative influence on business decisions (JETRO, nd). Business attire The Japanese believe that black... middle of paper ...... communicate with Japanese in Business. Retrieved January 20, 2014 from http://www.jetro.go.jp/costarica/mercadeo/communicationwith.pdf Kwintessential. (n.d. a). Japan, language, culture, customs and etiquette. Retrieved January 20, 2014 from http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/japan-country-profiles.htmlKwintessential. (n.d. b). Doing business in the United States. Retrieved January 20, 2014 from http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/etiquette/doing-business-usa.html Latham, C. (2013). Women in Business: Where is the best place to be a female entrepreneur? Metro: accessed January 20, 2014 at http://metro.co.uk/2013/06/10/women-in-business-where-is-he -meilleur-place-pour-être-une-femme-entrepreneur- 3834661/Venture Japan. (nd). Business etiquette in Japan. Retrieved January 20, 2014 from http://www.venturejapan.com/japanese-business-etiquette.htm