1 Module 2.2 Culture notes
Culture notes: bowing and exchanging business cards in Japan
Bowing
Body language should always go with spoken language. In Japan, bowing (お辞儀, おじぎ, Ojigi) is commonly used to express one’s gratitude, respect, or apology.
One can bow while standing, sitting, or kneeling on the tatami or floor.
When meeting someone for the first time, it is common for people to greet each other while bowing. In the business world these days, however, it is also common for people to shake hands.
The deeper the bow is, the more respect one shows.
(Image source: Irasutoya.com)
Exchanging business cards in Japan
A business card, 名刺 (meishi), is exchanged when meeting someone for the first time in a formal setting and is a part of the business culture and etiquette.
The purpose is to observe ranks in the hierarchal Japanese society. Be prepared to exchange business cards and greet counterparts, with two hands or with one hand giving out one’s own card and the other hand receiving one in return. Read the cards carefully and have the card in front of you during the entire meeting.
After the meeting, put the business cards in a business card holder, which is also considered etiquette.
Business card exchange, using two hands with a bow
(Image source: Adobe Stock Photo)
めいし