Public Programs for Individuals / Working with Japan

"Having a Japanese-national instructor is vital to understanding the subtleties of Japanese culture. In hindsight, I now understand much of the "mysterious" behaviors of my Japanese counterparts in our two previous negotiation meetings. Thanks - I'm looking forward to using what I learned in the role plays in my next meeting in Tokyo.”   - J. P., APAC Sales Manager

Course Description:
The better you understand Japanese identity, cultural values, attitudes and behavior the more likely you are to be successful doing business in Japan. This workshop will help you gain strategies and tactics to be successful in meeting business, operational and management goals; and practice effective intercultural communication with Japanese counterparts.

Learn communication strategies to improve your business effectiveness with Japanese counterparts. Avoid offending them by understanding their cultural values, country background, social and business etiquette. Japanese meeting practices and negotiations are covered; tips for more effective E-mail and teleconferencing. Excellent preparation for business trips to Japan and hosting Japanese.

Learning Objectives:
In this program, participants learn:

I. Cultural Values
Key Japanese cultural values, beliefs, customs and traditions that shape their business and social behaviors (e.g., group orientation, honne vs. tatemae, uchi and soto, kata, wa and others)

II.  Business and Management Practices
Understand hierarchy (roles, titles) in Japanese companies; proper introductions, first impressions, meishi, and business protocol; the importance and process of relationship building and face; Japanese negotiation strategies; concept of time, punctuality and decision-making processes; gaining personal contacts and professional credibility (with special focus for businesswomen); gaining buy-in and commitments; conflict resolution; motivating and delegating to subordinates.

III.  Corporate Contrasts
Similarities and differences between Japanese business culture and your corporate culture (values and business practices), i.e., customer orientation, quality, relationship building, risk-taking, innovation, loyalty, etc. are viewed or practiced in Japan.

IV.  Fundamentals
Essential briefing on "must know" facts about Japan, focusing on its history, people, and national identity in the region and world; current events, economy and business climate; demographic variety (regional, generational, religious, etc.); and the education system and learning styles that shape workplace behaviors of Japanese professionals.

V.  Communication Style
Learn how to work effectively with Japanese communication style, way of organizing and processing information, giving feedback, negotiating, questioning and persuading. Learn techniques in conducting effective meetings, using E-mails and teleconferencing. Learn conversation openers and topics to avoid; interpret gestures, body language, and personal space.

VI.  Business Travel
Packing, dress code; personal safety; hospitality, business entertainment (karaoke) and social etiquette with Japanese businessmen; foods, drinking; holidays; transportation; laws and dealing with local authorities.

Target Audience:
Employees working virtually with global coworkers, suppliers and customers. Anyone who conducts business in Japan should absolutely attend.

Course Cost:
Member: $895
Non-member: $945

Duration:
One day 9:00 am - 4:30 pm

Dates / Location:
Directions will be sent with your confirmation

• July 15, 2008   Portland, OR

This program is available online.

LSA Public Classes can be customized and delivered onsite at your company. To speak with an LSA Global Expert about your customized on-site options, please contact us.