Free Essay

International Management Japanese Business Culture

In: Business and Management

Submitted By cannyeo
Words 876
Pages 4
Yeo Kian Seng
SCSJ-0012635
International Management (BA 317) Spring 2014
Individual Assignment (20%)
Ms. Kristen
Segi College Subang Jaya

Case Questions 1. What specific errors did Warren and Carol Oats make during their first week in Japan?
Before getting started, Oats should have done some research in Japanese ways of doing business. Particularly on their meeting etiquette and social interaction; they are well-known for their politeness and it is probably the defining factor whether Oats is able to secure the business.
First off, Oats should have presented his name card upon the first meeting even before he started to present his proposal. To Japanese, name cards represent an individual, Oats should have a cardholder specially cater to that. Introduction of himself and the company is also important, possibly this should be the only of the objective of the first meeting instead on going straight to the point.
Secondly, Oats should have brought an assistant or more peers along with him on the first meeting. Seeing the Japanese attend the meeting in group means they are prepared to ask specific question per their expertise. Silence did occur during the meeting, it simply means that reflection is taking place; Oats should not have break the silence.
As for Carol Oats, her approach in job search is wrong. She should have informed the executives prior before approaching them. A cover letter and updated resume is the basic, else there are nothing for the executives to refer. Ask for a formal job interviews and await their reply patiently, Japanese are really careful at choosing the right person for the right job.

2. Compare the business culture of the United States of America with that of Japan using ‘Confucian Dynamism’.
In terms of integration, Japan has bigger takes on solidarity with its employees; group consensus is important before making any decision for the company. United States of America on the other hand only take the opinion of the superiors into account. Superiors also give some great leeway to subordinates so that they can decide and make decisions quickly.
For human-heartedness, Japanese tend to be really patient compared to Americans who make quick decision. Courtesy is what Japanese are famous of, they are taught since young to be in manners; thus their rarity in vulgarities. Americans tend to have more freedom in doing things.
As for Confucian work dynamism, Japan are greatly affected by this. Their warriors of ancient times perform “Seppuku” to preserve their honor. They have great sense of shame whereas Americans seek happiness based on their vanity in human rights.
Finally, all Japanese are morally disciplined. Their priority is on the work life; it is given work is the center of life. However in America, family and personal time is the priority; work-Life balance is a must.

3. If you were talking to a non-U.S. business person making a first contact with an American company, what advice would you give?
Firstly, the preparation. Invest on a fine tailored suit and a tuxedo, the suit is for the impression while the tuxedo is for all other social occasions which are mostly party, to be precise, business party. Business card is not that appealing to Americans, instead the way you look and the conversation you lead. Other than suit, have a pair of nice leather shoes and socks that match your suit. With those, you’ll get more than just business.
When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Don’t just wear like them, talk like one too. In case you are not familiar with how the Americans talk, watch some American shows like “How I met Your Mother”, there are a lot of ideas and humors which you can get from there. Learn their slang and their body language, or else you might miss out some hidden message. In all occasions, be candid as much as they do; Americans believe that being direct is a virtue. Americans ask for what they want, say what they mean, and expect you to do the same.
Business plan or proposal should be written as concise as possible, it should be presented straight to the point that it would not take more than 20 minutes. Americans can’t stand long meeting, just show all the numbers and figures that are proven and they are satisfied. Do persist and continue to convince them with strong words and promises that are sensible, it is alright to be aggressive.
“Business is business”, Americans do not do business based on personal relationships, it goes back to the values that your company can provide not personal values. In other words, it is not important to develop a personal relationship in order to establish a long and successful business relationship. Offer good payment terms and always do a little more than promised, that way, you’ll be able to retain them into buying your business in the future.

On the meeting etiquette, never be late more than 5 minutes. Always be at the meeting venue 20 minutes earlier to get familiar with the place. The most important of all, smile! It is considered unfriendly not to smile, or to refuse to shake hands, when you meet someone. In general, Americans smile more than most other businesspeople.

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