Language is defined as the sounds of communicating, how sentences are formed, the meaning and combination of words, and how these aspects are used. Language is also a barrier in communication. Worldwide, changing demographics have resulted in the need for businesspeople to deal increasingly with a multicultural population. Language barriers can cause unsuccessful communication of even the minimum amount of information necessary. Nonverbal language or communication is even harder to depict that spoken words. Aspects such as gesture, body position, facial expression, eye contact, and physical distance all have different variations and meanings across cultures. The ability to understand these cultural complexities is a key to successful business communication.
Japanese Culture and Etiquette.
To understand the business culture of the Japanese, we must understand their day-to-day culture and etiquette. The Japanese are very group-oriented and homogeneous. Japanese will think of the group first rather than themselves. No one is completely independent in Japan; they must always be conscientious about others (Condon 9). Americans are more individualized and focus on themselves before the group. The Japanese prefer to have unanimous agreement rather than agreement by the most votes. They believe in negotiating until agreement emerges and if unanimity does not materialize it is better to defer making the decision. .
There are several virtues highly valued in Japan. Harmony is of paramount importance to the Japanese. People will sacrifice their own feelings at times in order to maintain harmony. Politeness, honor, and integrity are highly important attributes. Education is highly adhered to as well. The higher the University that you attended, the higher importance you will carry the rest of your life. Other important Japanese virtues include perseverance without complaint, assumption of responsibility, hard work, modesty, and humility.
