Country Description
As a country for analysis, Japan is selected as a unique state with distinctive business approaches and cultural characteristics that create a distinctive image of the country. Traditions and beliefs constitute a significant part of Japanese business politics, which explains the significant differences between its culture and those of Western states. As individual aspects, property issues will be considered, economic indicators will be analyzed, and particular principles of privacy will be assessed. Japanese business culture is an example of the combination of traditional values with modern entrepreneurial practices.
Business Culture Features
The uniqueness of Japanese traditions and approaches to business is determined by characteristic cultural norms. For instance, this state has always promoted the introverted nature of relationships, which also influences the business sphere and interpersonal interaction. According to the country’s traditions, silence is valued more than useless communication, and meaningless actions cannot be considered productive. One of the features is the value of group work, and collective achievements are put above individual ones, despite the personal contribution of employees to the common cause.
Privacy and Labor Issues
For Japanese people, privacy is a no less important aspect of interpersonal interaction than hard work. A hierarchical business model is strictly adhered to, and in most companies, career growth is a consequence of productive activities and diligence. The awareness of individual contribution to common goals is manifested in responsibility for immediate duties, regardless of the importance of the work performed. For the Japanese, overworking is the norm, and getting to work early is a natural occurrence. Being late, in turn, is invalid at any corporate level.
Property Issues
To sell or purchase property in Japan, there is no need to perform numerous procedures. At the same time, there is an important condition to inform the relevant authorities about a specific financial transaction within 20 days prior to its execution. Obtaining approval is mandatory, but, as practice shows, the Japanese do not neglect this rule, and cases of such violations are rare. With regard to intellectual property, the control norms are stricter. In the country, there is a special trademark system that allows preserving the rights of citizens to the products of intellectual work. In case of violations, the law is harsh towards offenders.
Economic Indicators
Despite the high ranking in the list of the world’s economies, Japan has been experiencing an economic crisis since 2008, like many other countries. Inflation is one of the main challenges, and the depreciation of the national currency can lead to losses in the business sector. As a feature of the state, one can note the status of the country as one of the largest car-manufacturing powers globally. With regard to foreign investment, there are few restrictions, but they are tough and require high reporting.
Original Approach to Business
Traditional business customs are prioritized over corporate approaches in Japan. Hierarchy in interaction is to be respected, and some aspects of interpersonal communication should be taken into account. In particular, introducing oneself personally may be considered impolite and a bad taste. Any appointments should be made in advance to avoid inconvenience to both parties. The culture of gift-giving is national, and special standards are encouraged. One cannot refuse gifts, but at the same time, modesty, privacy, and courtesy should be respected.
References
Franklin, S. (2017). Japanese business culture: A study on foreigner integration and social inclusion. Honors Theses. Web.
Meyer, E. (2017). Being the boss in Brussels, Boston, and Beijing. Harvard Business Review. Web.