Meeting and Greeting

A greeting is considered to be of utmost importance in Japan when two people meet. It is the base level of politeness in the Japanese society and is considered to be an indicator of who you are as a person. A greeting with energy and vigour that is delivered loudly and proudly will positively create a good impression of you as person. On the other hand, a lazy greeting and the act of just leaving without any notice is considered disdainful.

Bowing the Head

Common Japanese greetings such as “ohayo guzaimasu” (good morning), “konnichiwa” (good day) and “konbanwa” (good evening) are usually delivered with a bow. The bow is equivalent to the handshake in the West, and it forms an integral part of Japanese culture. It is used in various occasions, including meeting, showing gratitude, expressing apology or sympathy and getting attention. Foreigners, though, are not expected to follow the practice of bowing the head. A simple of gesture of handshake, a slight nod of the head or a combination of both would suffice. Still, remember that Japanese interaction has some heightened sense of formality, so you must do the greeting right, especially during the first meeting. Also keep in mind that during the introduction, you have to say your full name, followed by the company you are representing. When addressing someone, always use proper titles to establish position and relationship.

The first business meeting is usually ended with the exchanging of business cards. This will not be your typical ordinary card exchange. In Japanese society, the card is considered as something that represents the individual giving it. So your business card should be well designed, carefully kept and, if possible, written in Japanese. The card is typically offered and received with both hands, or just the right hand with the left receiving the other. Upon receiving the card, carefully put it into your carrying case. Avoid fidgeting and playing with the card for this shows disrespect to the giver.