What is different about working in Japan

I have been working in Japan for over a year now. Although I am on a scholarship for foreigners, I am the only foreigner in my office. Also, my work requires engaging with other stakeholders outside my office, who are all Japanese.

For these reasons I have a privilege to experience Japanese work environment in a sheltered but quite authentic way. Work culture in Japan is also a popular topic that comes up when I talk with  other foreigners working here, so I thought I will add my two cents on the topic.

There are some of the things that slightly differ in Japan from other countries I have been working in (New Zealand, Poland):

1. Business cards

Japanese use business cards when they meet for the first time, always. If during the meeting people sit around the table, the business cards are placed in the order of sitting. This makes it easy to address people by names, and to remember what background, position or function of each person is. It is easier to remember names of the people you have just met, if you have their business card to take with you.

For me as a foreigner, it may be quite hard to remember the Japanese name after hearing it once. And vice versa, it is probably equally hard for Japanese people to pronounce my name and remember it. Business cards are life savers.

2. Seal (hanko) instead of a signature

In Japan, the role of a signature is taken by a personal seal. These are so pretty. It costs a bit more money for foreigners as we have  to have a hanko custom made. My hanko looks probably way better than my signature anyway.

Hanko is usually kept in a special case which also contains an ink pad. Therefore, it is not nearly as problematic in use as you would imagine. I will write a separate post about hanko.

3. Long working hours

Japanese are known for staying in the office for a long time. Traditionally, no-one would go home until the boss leaves. The boss is usually heavily involved in many things, therefore he is working long hours, so everyone follows. This is changing however, especially for foreigners.

Interesting fact: after lunch everyone is brushing their teeth. Even if people intend to have tea or coffee shortly after their lunch, they will still brush their teeth.

4. Social life

Social life In Japan is integrated into work life. In other countries you would maybe meet after work from time to time with people you really like. In Japan, there are many opportunities to meet with coworkers outside of work. For example, at the end of year there is a traditional bonenkai (the end of the year party) where all coworkers eat and drink together. There can be other occasions such as summer party, welcome party for new members and casual lunches or dinner.

5. Relationships

Relationships seem to be very important in a Japanese workplace. Even if you have moved on to another company, you are still considered a part of the previous one. Mentoring younger colleagues is also part of the culture, is well developed, and happens quite naturally.

6. Omiyage – gifts from the trips

It is customary that you bring presents for you coworkers when you go on a trip. The presents are usually some local foods (fruit, condiments) or sweets. This is an opportunity for everyone in the office to experience a little bit of the place you went to.

These are the things that were different in Japanese work environment for me. What are your experiences? Please add your comments below.