AsifScoob

I am sure a lot of people do, but I am specifically thinking of where you are dealing, face to face, with large numbers of Japanese Management/colleagues.

I have just started a new job with an unnamed Japanese firm and have to deal with lots of Japanese people.

Not a problem, just new for me. I have dealt with Japanese suppliers before, and their senior management, but that was in the form of external relationships and therefore very easy.

What I am doing now is the day to day and face to face. I am sure this will ease over time and getting to know people, but some early tips might be useful. Some appear a little aloof, some seem quite relaxed.

Tomorrow for instance, I am going with our new MD (literally fresh from Japan) to one of our important sites.

As I have only been at the firm for two weeks this is my first visit to that site too! I was going to discuss my Takeshi Kitano/Akira Kurosawa/Hideo Nakata/Sonny Tchiba collections on the plane, but this would be out of desperation as only the sort of conversation I would have with juniors, not with The Boss!

TIA (pm if necessary - confidentiality assured!)

Asif

jjones

talk about the war, they love it. that and john wayne impressions.

AsifScoob

LOL! I'll keep that in reserve.

Nido

Talk about Takeshi's Castle, always a winner!

mykp

You didnt say if you speak Japanese but if you want to make a good impression learn a little Japanese. For a start how to introduce yourself is a good one.

to say, Hello, my name is, <name> pleased to meet you.

try

Hajimema****e, watashi wa <name> Dozo Yorushiku

pronounced

Ha ji me ma shi te wa ta shi wa <name> Do zo Yo ru shi ku

NTT do a really good set of short learn Japanese videos for business. real easy to follow.

Also one thing I learn while living there and dealing with those higher up the command chain is, if you havent got anything sensible to say - keep your mouth shut.

[Davey]

Just be friendly and good mannered. They 'bring them up propper' in the far east! Not a bunch of **** HOLES like us brits