Instructor: Jeffrey Jousan

Communication in your own language with people of your own culture can often be a difficult task. When you add to this the elements of a foreign language, a completely different culture, and a whole new way of doing business - you certainly have your work cut out for you. This seminar will give you the tools to enter the land of opportunity that lies beyond the gates of cultural misunderstanding.

This seminar will cover three main areas: Culture, Communication and Business, followed by the 5 golden rules of communicating and working effectively with the Japanese.

Understanding the People and Culture of Japan
We begin with an understanding of Japanese culture. We will introduce the concept of “cultural filters” that often get in the way of effective communication. We will teach you how to overcome cultural distractions and focus on “real” communication.

• Hi-Context vs. Low Context societies
• The “We’re better” syndrome and how it will work against you
• The interconnectedness of Business and personal life

Specific Communication Issues
We are always communicating. Every communication is a moment of truth by which you, your product, and your service are judged. We begin with the rules of effective communication between native English-speakers. We then show you how those rules suddenly change when you are communicating with a non-native English speaker from a completely different cultural context.

• The many ways to say "Yes" and "No"
• The importance of the relationship
• Why culturally specific jokes aren't funny

Doing Business with the Japanese
As with everything else in our lives, the way we do business is culturally specific. In this section, you will learn about how the Japanese do business and the cultural explanation for why they do business that way.

• Japanese Business etiquette
• The importance of the business card
• The "dynamic" contract

• Patience
• Preparation
• Personal Relationship
• Sincerity / Trust
• Long Term Focus - Short Term Action

Jeffrey Jousan speaks Japanese and Chinese and has been living and working in Japan and Asia for 16 years, as an instructor, system integrator, manager, consultant and entrepreneur. He is the Representative Director of CrossWire, a Japanese company that he formed to help Japanese and foreign companies communicate more effectively. His extensive experience in cross-cultural business situations will give you the insights to understand better and be understood better by the Japanese.