1BUSINESS ETIQUETTE: JAPAN Etiquette may be defined as the set of manners and the code of conduct, which areaccepted by convention in social and professional relations. Derived from the French term“étiquette”(Meaning label), the word etiquette, in broad sense means maintaining respect and anoverall good behavior in the society. In the professional sphere of any individual, maintaining aproper code of conduct is mandatory, as directly or indirectly the etiquette showed by theindividual, in his or her work place leads people in making assumptions about that individual’scredibility and efficiency as a professional (Okoro2012). Japan, with Per-capita Gross National Income of more than USD 45,000, is the fourthlargest economy in the world. With huge technological innovations, large import demands, thecountry is emerging as one of the most lucrative markets for businesses from all over the world.However, known for its rich, deep rooted culture, maintained through generations, Japan is acountry of strict etiquettes, which they diligently maintain both in their personal and professionalspheres (Martinand Chaney2012). If Emily plans to expand her business in Japan, she needs to know about their basicbusiness etiquettes even before venturing in the Japanese market. The essay tries to analyze thebusiness etiquettes, which has to be kept in mind while meeting Mr. Hamasaki for the first time,in order to create a positive impression(Tanakaand Kleiner2015). During their first meeting with Japanese clients, especially in the country itself, severaletiquettes are to be kept in mind as though appearing small or trivial; these hold hugesignificance in building up a successful business relationship. Foreign investors, especially thosefrom Non-Asian countries need to stress on knowing about these business etiquettes as there arehuge cross culture differences between them and their potential clients(Americanexpress.com,2017). First impression-In any kind of communication, first impression holds a key impact. Itmay not necessarily be the last impression, but it considerably contributes in image building of aperson. Japan maintains a strict formal culture in business communications. Mr. or Mrs. ismandatory in addressing people, followed by their surnames. Use of first names is specificallynot recommended. To make a good impression, business cards (Meishi) play a key role and howit is received or given also is a matter of etiquette (Hurnand Tomalin2013). Treating aged people- In Japan, age is related to seniority and experience. An agedperson, by default, deserves to be shown more respect and attention than the younger onespresent. Therefore, in this case as Mr. Hamasaki is an aged man, treating him with moredeference, greeting himfirst and offering him her professional card before offering the same tothe younger people present, can be treated as good business etiquette(Americanexpress.com,2017). Conversations- Conversations during a Japanese business meeting is an area wherebusiness etiquettes are valued substantially. Japanese people value silence more than excessivetalking as silence is related to credibility, professionalism, self-control and wisdom (MartinandChaney2012). Unlike many Non-Asian countries, where an outgoing attitude helps in facilitatingcommunications, in Japan, especially at the beginning of a formal relationship, a silent,introverted approach is preferred more as silence is given significant importance in the Japanese

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