What are some business etiquette norms when doing business in Japan?

Thank you for your question ! Japan has a unique culture and business et iqu ette , and it ' s important to be aware of these norm s when conduct ing business there . Here are some key business et iqu ette norm s to keep in mind : \n 1 . Res pect for hierarchy : In Japan , age and senior ity are highly respect ed , so it ' s important to show de ference to older or more senior colle agues or clients . This means using honor ific language and titles , such as " s ense i " ( te acher ) or " san " ( Mr ./ M s ./ M rs .). \n 2 . G ift - g iving : G ift - g iving is a significant part of Japanese culture , and it ' s custom ary to bring a small gift when meeting with clients or colle agues for the first time . The gift should be nicely wrapped and of a mod est value , such as a box of ch oc ol ates or a small plant . \n 3 . P unct ual ity : P unct ual ity is highly val ued in Japan , so make sure to arrive on time for meet ings and appoint ments . It ' s also important to be respect ful of other people ' s time , and to avoid keeping them waiting . \n 4 . Business cards : In Japan , business cards are ex changed frequently , and it ' s important to have yours ready and in good condition . Make sure to use both hands when receiving a business card , and to carefully examine the card before storing it . \n 5 . E ye contact : E ye contact is important in Japanese culture , and it ' s custom ary to maintain eye contact during meet ings and convers ations . However , avoid direct st aring , as this can be seen as ag gress ive or confront ational . \n 6 . Personal space : Japan is a collect iv ist culture , which means that people tend to stand closer together than in individual ist cult ures . However , it ' s important to respect people ' s personal space , especially when meeting for the first time . \n 7 . Communic ation style : Japanese communication style is often indirect and nu anced , and it ' s important to be sensitive to this when communic ating with colle agues or clients . A void making too direct or bl unt , and try to use more subt le language and gest ures . \n 8 . D ress code : D ress codes in Japan can be formal , especially in business settings . Make sure to dress appropri ately for the occasion , and to avoid reve aling or in app ropri ate cl othing . \n 9 . Table man ners : Table man ners are important in Japan , and it ' s custom ary to wait for the host to start e ating before you begin . A void using ch op st icks to move food around your plate , as this can be seen as imp ol ite . \n 1 0 . Language : While many Japanese people speak English flu ently , it ' s always appreciated when foreign ers make an effort to learn some basic Japanese phr ases . This can help to build rapport and show respect for the culture . \n \n I hope these tips are helpful ! Remember to always be respect ful and consider ate of Japanese culture and custom s , and to be open to learning and adapt ing to new situations . Good luck with your business in Japan ! </s>