World without words
Exchanging business cards
Nodding
The simple act of
The Japanese find it difficult voicing
exchanging business
an outright“no”to a question or
cards is more
statement. In fact, as they listen to
complex in Japan
someone speaking, they may nod their
because the business card represents
head as if agreeing but do not take this
not only the person’s identity but also
as agreement.
the station in life. Here are some tips: •
•
•
The business card is held with both
Open mouth
hands, between the thumbs and
Displaying an open
forefingers;
mouth is considered
It is extended forward in a respectful
as rude in Japan.
gesture with the printing pointed
That is one reason
toward the other person. A slight
many Japanese,
bow is made at the same time;
especially the
The Japanese will take the card,
women, cover their mouths when
again with both hands and a
giggling or laughing.
small bow, and then read the card
• •
•
carefully. This may be followed by
Okay sign
another slight bow;
The okay sign in Japan
After this sequence, the Western
may be interpreted as
handshake may occur;
the signal for money,
When Westerners take the business
probably because of
card from a Japanese, they should
the circular shape
avoid checking it casually and
formed by the index
quickly tucking it into a coat or
finger and thumb, which suggests
shirt pocket. They have to look at
the shape of a coin. For example, a
it carefully, then place it on the
Japanese may make a purchase at a
table in front of them for further
food counter and then flash this gesture
reference;
to signal “Give me my change in coins.”
Avoid writing notes on the back of the card. This is considered to be
Smiling
disrespectful towards something
Among the Japanese, smiling often
that represents a person’s identity.
can cover several emotions: happiness, anger, confusion, apologies or sadness.
Presenting a gift should happen in the same way. 99