Japanese Business Manner Guide

The silly manners adopted in Japan

Japanese business manners are some what different from the manners that are common in other countries. Many of these manners are strict and conservative but are known to be a standard in Japan, especially for the older generations so it is important that you at least know that these manners exist when doing business in Japan.

Looks
Trading Business Cards
Bowing
Jyouza/Shimoza

Looks

Here are some expectations on looks. It should be the same in most countries.

Front hair should not covering your eyes
Long hair should be tied in the back
Beard and mustache should be shaved or at least look presentable
Accessories and jewelries should be basic and simple
Socks should match the color of the suit

Trading Business Cards

Japanese people treat business cards as if it is the card owner's face, so they treat them with extra care and they expect you to do the same.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to exchange business cards in Japan.

Both ends must put their jacket on if they have them
Stand up and face each other
Visitor pulls out the business card first
Visitor holds the business card with both hands
Visitor says the company name followed by their name
Visitor hands it to the receiver with the business card facing towards them
Pause and stare at the business card and ( pretend to ) memorize the information
Store the business card in a safe place
Now the receiver repeats the steps above

When exchanging with multiple people, exchange the business card in their order of importance of the visitor. If there are people high in rank assisting you, allow them to exchange with every visitor first.

Bowing

There are three different types to bowing and each one should be used according to the specific occasion.

For a simple greeting, a person is expected to do a "kaishaku" ( 会釈 ) or a small bow. This is done by bowing forward about 15 degrees.

For a normal greeting, a person is expected to do a ”keirei" ( 敬礼 ) or a bow. This is done by bowing forward about 30 to 25 degrees. Commonly used to greet a customer or a visitor.

For an important greeting, a person is expected to do a "saikeirei" ( 最敬礼 ) or a low bow. This is done by bowing forward 45 degrees or lower. This is known to be the most polite way to bow. Commonly used to apologize or to thank a customer.

Jyouza/Shimoza

上座・下座
This is directly translated to Upper seat and lower seat.
These are positions or seating orders for business persons that are applied in rooms and public transportation.
Here are some examples. Numbers go from most important person to least important person.
Taxi / Public Car