The Japanese respect our Western habit of using our first names but they will follow it with the honorific “san” e.g. John-san as a sign of respect. Or they may address you using the Western form Mr/Mrs/Miss + surname. The Japanese tend to take lots of notes during meetings as this is seen as good business etiquette.
In Japan, it is not customary to bring gifts to the first business meeting. However, it is common to express gratitude and build relationships through thoughtful gestures, such as giving gifts at later meetings or during specific occasions.
In general, in Japan, to bring gifts to ``FIRST-TIME-MEET CO-WORKERS'' is not usual act. Even if you don't bring gifts for them, it's not impolite behavior. In the other hand, bringing gifts is also not impolite. If you bring gifts, they will be happy. What kind of gifts for them?
Giving a small gift of appreciation is very much a part of their culture. They may be surprised, but it is perfectly within the social norm to do so.
Comments Section When you hand over your business card, it is a semi-formal thing. Don't ever blow your nose where you can be seen. Don't try to bow, you'll screw it up. ``-san'' is like ``Mister''. Guests sit facing the door. Never interrupt someone who is speaking.
Japanese customarily bow to each other rather than shake hands upon meeting. However, most Japanese accustomed to dealing with foreigners expect to shake hands with them and are rarely embarrassed when a foreigner offers his hand.
Nope, no gift! This is, for all intents and purposes, a business meeting and the company should cover expenses. The wife is sweet and going above and beyond so a thank you note could be nice, but this is still doing business. In 99% of cases; you don't give gifts for business things.
Always smile, act pleasantly, be willing to learn, ask a lot of questions about the Japanese side's business vision and plans.
Tradition, form and protocol are highly valued. Japanese customarily bow to each other rather than shake hands upon meeting. However, most Japanese accustomed to dealing with foreigners expect to shake hands with them and are rarely embarrassed when a foreigner offers his hand.
You should memorize the key phrase “Hajimemashite,” which translates to “Nice to meet you.” Then, introduce yourself with your name followed by “to moushimasu,” which means “I am called.” For instance, you would say, “Hajimemashite, Tanaka Taro to moushimasu.” The tone and politeness of your introduction play a crucial ...