Even though Japan is mostly westernized it remains being traditional Japanese. It
has a hierarchically structured culture and society and contains complex rules for
interpersonal situations and relationships (Kazuo Nishiyama, 2000, p. 1-9). The
Japan culture and society varies from the German. Those differences in cross-
boarder alliances are sources of potential conflicts and misunderstandings in
business relationships (Susan C. Schneider and Jean-Lois Barsoux, 2003, p. 9).
Especially the way of verbal and non-verbal communication: Japan is a high
context culture. Many information lay “between” the lines (in the context).
Germany in contrast to that is a low context culture. They give precise information
in a direct way. Japanese are more introverted and restrained than the Germans.
The importance of face keeping (for e.g. not showing emotions public) is another
main difference. In Japan the status of a person (often linked to its age and
experience) is important (Edward T. Hall and Mildred Reed Hall, 1987, xvi). But
also some little specific differences can cause huge problems. For example the
differing attitude towards bribe and gifts can cause difficult misapprehensions.
This summary of some of the main differences shows that there are many
varieties that can cause problems in business. This gap between the German and
the Japanese culture is unconditionally to considers, important to know in detail
and very helpful to internalize in doing business with Japan as a German
company.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Executive Summary
- Terms of Reference
- Analysis of the current situation
- PEST/PESTEL Analysis
- Political Factors
- Economical Factors
- Sociological Factors
- Technological Factors
- PEST/PESTEL Analysis
- A cultural comparison between Germany and Japan
- Preface
- Power distance
- Uncertainty avoidance
- Individualism
- Masculinity
- Analysis of Japanese business behaviour
- Introduction
- Basic differences in communication
- Initiating Business Contacts and establishing a relationship
- Time and punctuality
- Negotiating, selling and making contracts
- Decision making
- Further worth knowing things making business with Japanese
- Business Cards and Introduction
- Questions one should expect
- Japanese and the German language
- Solution and recommendations
- Forecasts/Outcomes
- References
- Books
- World Wide Web
- Appendices
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This briefing paper aims to provide a German car manufacturer, Wiesmann GmbH, with an overview of Japanese business culture to prepare them for potential joint ventures with Japanese automotive industry suppliers. The paper focuses on cultural differences that might affect business relationships, particularly in communication and decision-making.
- Cultural differences between Germany and Japan
- The impact of Japanese culture on business behaviour
- Strategies for successful business interactions with Japanese companies
- Key considerations for joint venture partnerships
- The importance of understanding Japanese communication styles
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The Executive Summary highlights the cultural differences between Germany and Japan, emphasizing the importance of understanding these differences for successful business ventures. The Terms of Reference outlines the purpose of the briefing paper and the specific needs of Wiesmann GmbH.
The Analysis of the Current Situation delves into the political and economic landscape of Japan. It explores the historical development of Japan's political system, highlighting the impact of post-war American occupation and the recent shift in power with the rise of the Democratic Party of Japan. The section also examines Japan's economic strength and its recent recession.
The Cultural Comparison section explores key cultural dimensions, such as power distance, uncertainty avoidance, individualism, and masculinity, contrasting the German and Japanese perspectives. This analysis provides insights into potential cultural conflicts and misunderstandings.
The Analysis of Japanese Business Behaviour examines various aspects of Japanese business practices, including communication styles, negotiation tactics, decision-making processes, and the importance of business etiquette.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This briefing paper focuses on cross-cultural business, Japanese business culture, communication styles, joint ventures, cultural differences, power distance, uncertainty avoidance, individualism, masculinity, and business etiquette. It highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity and understanding for successful business interactions between German and Japanese companies.
- Quote paper
- Sarah Nagel (Author), 2009, Basic guideline for a German company to do business with Japanese companies, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/160758
