Business Success Japan
88 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 2 months ago -This podcast is made for those who want to develop or strengthen the communication skills, cultural savvy, insights into current trends and conditions, and mindsets essential in a Japanese business environment. The helpful, practical suggestions and engaging insights offered here provide listeners with the in-depth cultural context to achieve their own version of success while collaborating with their Japanese counterparts.
Support the podcast here: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan
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Episodes
Preventing Cross-Cultural Miscommunication and Leadership as Parenting with Chie Schuller
February 22, 2021 10:00 - 52 minutes - 48.4 MBIn today's conversation, I speak with Chie Schuller of THK Manufacturing of America, where she is a leader in international relations and cross-cultural engagement with a focus on US-Japan relations. She shares insights from her long history of working as a "bridge" between Japan and the United States. We also discuss the importance of sharing cultural context in situations with potential miscommunication, emotional intelligence in the workplace, the importance of setting clear expectations ...
Finding Your Niche, Succeeding Socially, and Navigating Bureaucracy in Japan with Richard Mort
February 08, 2021 05:00 - 1 hour - 61.3 MBIn today's episode, I talk with Richard Mort, an international communication specialist who has decades of immersion in Japanese language and culture, cross-cultural understanding, and fluency in French and German. He shares his experiences, and we discuss finding your niche in Japan, finding family and woman/friendly companies, navigating the Japanese education and healthcare system when you need special accommodations, and why trying to master Japanese may not be the best use of your time....
Why You Should Found Your Startup in Kobe with Masanori Nagamine
January 25, 2021 05:00 - 45 minutes - 42.1 MBToday, I chat with Masanori Nagamine, a Japanese municipal official working to attract global startups, accelerators, incubators, and Venture Capitalists in IT and Life Science to the city of Kobe. Tokyo had better watch out, because Kobe is just one of the cities across Japan are fighting to attract international talent and startups. The city of Kobe is one of these Strategic Economic Zones, and in this week’s episode Masanori tells us a bit more about what support and obstacles foreigners ...
Diversity, Inclusion, and Cross-Cultural Leadership in Japan with Takahiro Shikano
January 11, 2021 05:00 - 43 minutes - 40.1 MBToday, I talk with Takahiro Shikano, a global marketing strategist and partner solutions leader specializing in launching and growing sales of cutting-edge technology products across Fortune 500 partner networks who is currently a Global Account Marketing lead at Microsoft Corporation. In today's conversation, he shares his insights into what diversity and inclusion looks like in a Japanese professional context, as well as what his experiences have shown him it takes to be an effective leade...
Navigating Gender, Race, and Culture in the Japanese Workplace with Jessica Kennett Cork
December 21, 2020 05:00 - 1 hour - 58.1 MBIn today's episode, I share a conversation with Jessica Kennett Cork, Vice President of Community Engagement and Communications at YKK Corporation of America. In this week’s episode of the podcast, Jessica Kennett Cork shares her experiences as a foreign woman working in Japanese companies, as well as her insights into how to successfully navigate cultural expectations regardless of your gender or race. She also explains how decision-making functions within Japanese companies, and why it’s s...
Successfully Navigating Your Tech Career and Avoiding Burnout in Japan with Paul Roberts
December 07, 2020 05:00 - 57 minutes - 52.4 MBToday, I chat with IT recruiter and consultant Paul Roberts, a Tokyo-based IT recruiter with over twenty years of experience in the industry. He shares his own career and life experiences in Japan, and he touches on many interesting and practical topics such as work visas, networking, entrepreneurship, just to name a few. Today's Word: めいし me-i-shi meaning: business card Paul's Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulrobertstokyo/ Personal Blog: paulroberts.jp Company Websit...
Opportunities for Disruption and Collaboration in Japan and Germany with Johannes Budkiewitz
November 23, 2020 05:00 - 1 hour - 59.7 MBIn today's conversation, NIHHON founder Johannes Budkiewitz shares his insights into a wide range of topics, including how the Japanese education system offers opportunities for disruption alongside the rise of startups, as well as the unique opportunities that exist for collaboration between Japan and Germany. He also speaks about sustainability issues and initiatives in both countries, as well as what mindsets are necessary to find lasting success in Japan. Today's Word: サークル sa-a-ku-ru...
On Being an Effective Communicator in Japan with Anthony Griffin
November 09, 2020 09:00 - 58 minutes - 53.2 MBIn today's episode, I chat with Anthony Griffin of Saga Consulting about his experiences helping Japanese professionals gain the skills needed to be successful in an increasingly globalized world. Be sure to listen in to learn more about what skills are essential for finding professional success in Japan, as well as to hear more about the role of LinkedIn and other social media in Japanese networking. Today's Phrase: がんばってください ga-n-ba-tte-ku-da-sa-i Meaning: "Please do your best." (typic...
Pursuing Mastery of the Japanese Language with Graeme Lawrence
October 26, 2020 08:00 - 1 hour - 61.1 MBIn today's episode, I chat with Graeme Lawrence, an award-winning Japanese specialist with years of experience in translation and interpretation. He shares his own experiences working in Japan and using Japanese professionally outside of the country, as well as his insights into the process of learning Japanese. For anyone who is considering taking their own Japanese studies seriously, no matter their current level or past experiences in the classroom, this episode is a must-listen. Graeme'...
Meetings in Japan: Honne, Tatemae, and Nemawashi… Oh My! with Ken Okamoto
October 12, 2020 08:00 - 57 minutes - 52.4 MBIn this week's interview, I chat with Ken Okamoto of Ken One World Consulting. We chat about the importance of a healthy work-life balance, why that can be so difficult to achieve in Japan, and we delve into the topic of Japanese business meetings. Be sure to listen in to some insight into what you will likely encounter, and how to put in the work ahead of time to set yourself for success in Japanese meetings. Today's Word: たてまえ ta-te-ma-e Meaning: one's official opinion or stance (thou...
Understanding the Japanese Marketplace with Natalie Meyer
September 28, 2020 08:00 - 52 minutes - 47.7 MBIn today's conversation, I chat with Natalie Meyer of Tokyoesque, a localization and market research company. In the episode, Natalie shares her insights into some unique aspects of the Japanese marketplace, as well as common difficulties foreign companies face when entering Japan, and vice-verse. Today's Word: ほんね ho-n-ne Meaning: one's true opinion, real intention, motivation Natalie's Links: Tokyoesque LinkedIn Book Recommendation: The Culture Map Related Episodes: Faye-Sensei ...
Discovering Ma: Finding Success in Japan by Learning to Pay Attention with Byron Barón
September 14, 2020 17:33 - 52 minutes - 48.1 MBIn this week's episode, I chat with Byron Barón of Contactojapon about the importance of a concept called "ma" to effective communication in Japan. Since "ma" means time, pause, or space, it can be a difficult concept for many speed-obsessed Westerners to wrap their heads around at first. However, an appreciation of Japanese art, as well as cultivating quiet and space in your own life may hold the key to not only surviving, but thriving in this unique aspect of Japanese communication. Als...
Cultivating Creativity in Japan: Succeeding by Being Radically Yourself with Angel Guevara
August 24, 2020 08:00 - 1 hour - 59.1 MBIn today's episode, Angel Guevara shares his observations on the interplay between self-confidence, individuality, and creativity in the Japanese market. How can you master the art of honoring your host culture while being true to your passions? Be sure to listen in and find out. Today's Word: かいぜん ka-i-ze-n Meaning: betterment, improvement Angel's Links and Suggestions: His Company: Hypermilk His Movement: Nightcrawlers personality assessment Related Episodes: Anil Raj on Entrepre...
Tourism and Covid-19: Effects and Opportunities in Japan with Bonson Lam
August 10, 2020 21:16 - 1 hour - 59.3 MBIn today's episode, I chat with Bonson Lam about his research into the effects of the current Covid-19 situation on tourism, as well as the possible opportunities that could arise in the industry both during and after the crisis. Today's Word: りょかん ryo-ka-n Meaning: a traditional Japanese-style inn Bonson's Links: Japantravel check out Metropolis Bonson's Story of the Kimono Chest Bonson's Story at the Soba Shack Related Episodes: Sébastien on Omotenashi and Special Diets in Japan...
Managing Professional Relationships and Gaijin-Cards in Japan with Mac Salman
July 26, 2020 19:33 - 58 minutes - 53.3 MBIn today's episode, I chat with Mac Salman, founder of the Japan-based travel company Maction Planet. He shares his experiences moving to and falling in love with the country, as well as his practical insights into how best to build and maintain relationships in Japan. We also discuss an important concept for foreigners living and doing business in Japan to know called the "gaijin-card," so you definitely won't want to miss out on this week's conversation. Today's Word: がいじん ga-i-ji-n Me...
Anil Raj on Entrepreneurship and Mentorship in Japan
July 13, 2020 08:00 - 46 minutes - 42.8 MBIn today's episode, I interview Anil Raj, a serial entrepreneur in Japan. He shares his experiences, advice for successfully navigating entrepreneurship in Japan as a foreigner, as well as his views on the importance of mentorship in the country. Today's Phrase: かんぱい ka-n-pa-i Meaning: "Cheers!" [used while drinking] Related Past Episodes: Business Meeting Basics Making the Most of a Nomikai Groupism and Nommunication: Minae-san on Building Strong Business Relationships in Japan Ani...
Anne Hooghart on High- and Low-Context Cultures
June 29, 2020 21:26 - 57 minutes - 53 MBIn today's episode, Anne Hooghart walks us through the differences between high- and low-context cultures, as well as the common misunderstandings that commonly occur between people from cultures on different ends of the spectrum. Today's Phrase: わかりません wa-ka-ri-ma-se-n Meaning: I don't know/I don't understand Previous Episodes to Learn More: Japanese Body Language Groupism and Nommunication: Minae-san on Building Strong Business Relationships in Japan Suggested Links: Anne’s Book ...
Sébastien on Omotenashi and Special Diets in Japan
June 15, 2020 08:00 - 53 minutes - 48.9 MBIn today's episode, I chat with Sébastien about his experiences in Japan. As the community manager of Japan Travel, Sébastien is passionate about helping others through making Japan more accessible even to those with nonstandard diets. Vegetarians, vegans, and those with religion-based dietary restrictions have frequently voiced their frustrations about how difficult it is to find the food they need in Japan--an issue that can be especially dangerous for those with allergies. Sébastien share...
Getting Around Japan II: Buses
June 08, 2020 08:00 - 6 minutes - 5.95 MBIn today's episode, I go into more detail about taking buses in Japan. Although the system is a bit more complicated than subways and trains, buses are still a very convenient way to get around in Japan. And for people traveling on a budget, highway buses and bus passes are by far the most cost-effective way to get around the country. Be sure to listen in to learn more. Today's Phrase: ごちそうさまでした go-chi-so-u-sa-ma-de-shi-ta Meaning: "It was a feast." Usage: set phrase for after a meal ...
Faye-Sensei on Culture Shock and the Power of Open-Mindedness
June 01, 2020 22:53 - 43 minutes - 40.1 MBToday I chat with Faye Valtadoros, a Japanese teacher in Michigan who lived in Japan and taught English there through the JET Program. She shares her experiences, what she's learned, and what she teaches her students about how to make the most of their time in the country. This episode will be particularly useful to anyone looking to move to Japan for any length of time, though her stories and thoughts are worth listening to for anyone with an interest in Japan. Today's Phrase: いただきます i...
Getting Around in Japan I
May 25, 2020 08:00 - 7 minutes - 6.9 MBIn today's episode, I talk about some basics information that'll be useful for navigating the transportation system in Japan. Honestly, it can be complicated and overwhelming at times, but having an idea of the situations you'll face will go a long way to making sure you end up in the right place. But when in doubt, don't be afraid to ask for help. And be sure to take advantage of resources like the JR Pass, one-day passes, and Suica/Pasmo cards to not only save money, but help avoid unneces...
Identity and Relationships: Kimi Sugiyama Shares Her Experiences Working in Japan
May 18, 2020 08:00 - 41 minutes - 37.9 MBToday I chat with Kimi Sugiyama, a travel consultant with a focus on and love for Japan. She shares her experiences navigating business relationships and identity in Japan. We also discuss the intersection of culture and language in really understanding Japanese culture and effectively engaging with people in the country, so be sure to listen in. Today's Phrase: おつかれさまでした o-tsu-ka-re-sa-ma-de-shi-ta Meaning: "Great work today." "You worked hard." Kimi's Links: blog photography podcas...
Winning at Karaoke
May 11, 2020 08:00 - 7 minutes - 6.72 MBIn today's episode, I teach you how to make the most out of a karaoke event in Japan. As karaoke is a common destination after an afterword nomikai, or "drinking meeting," it's another great opportunity to further develop your business relationships in Japan. Today's Phrase: おさきにしつれいします o-sa-ki-ni shi-tsu-re-i-shi-ma-su Meaning: Excuse me for leaving before you. To Learn More: Making the Most of a Nomikai Groupism and Nommunication Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-...
Groupism and Nommunication: Minae-san on Building Strong Business Relationships in Japan
May 04, 2020 08:00 - 57 minutes - 53 MBIn this interview, Minae-san explains the concept of Groupism in Japanese culture, as well as the importance of Nommunication in a Japanese business setting. We explore how Japanese professionals work to develop and maintain relationships, as well as how it ties into Japanese cultural values as a whole. Interested in helping an organization dedicated to improving Japan-US relations? Check out Minae-san's links below to get in contact. Today's phrase: とんでもありません to-n-de-mo a-ri-ma-se-n M...
Making the Most of a Nomikai
April 27, 2020 08:00 - 8 minutes - 7.47 MBIn today's episode, I walk you through what to expect at a Japanese "nomikai" or "drinking-meeting." What should you expect when you're invited to go to an after-work dinner with your Japanese counterparts? What's the point of these after-work activities? And, most importantly, how can you make the most of the time you spend at a nomikai? Today's Word: いいえ i-i-e Meaning: No To learn more: -Business Meeting Basics -How to Behave in a Business Meeting If you found the information here ...
Kasia on Hourensou: Improving Communication in Japan With... Spinach?
April 20, 2020 23:06 - 50 minutes - 46 MBIn this episode, Kasia explains the unique approach Japanese companies have toward communication called "hourensou." While the most common definition you'll find for the word is probably "spinach," in business, it takes on a whole new meaning. Today's Phrase: はい ha-i Meaning: Yes To learn even more about hourensou, check out Kasia's awesome blog post: https://www.ikigaiconnections.com/hourensou-it-does-a-business-good/ Learn More/Job Board:https://www.ikigaiconnections.com/ LinkedIn: ...
Kasha on Hourensou: Improving Communication in Japan With... Spinach?
April 20, 2020 23:06 - 50 minutes - 46.5 MBIn this episode, Kasha explains the unique approach Japanese companies have toward communication called "hourensou." While the most common definition you'll find for the word is probably "spinach," in business, it takes on a whole new meaning. Today's Phrase: はい ha-i Meaning: Yes To learn even more about hourensou, check out Kasha's awesome blog post: https://www.ikigaiconnections.com/hourensou-it-does-a-business-good/ Learn More/Job Board:https://www.ikigaiconnections.com/ LinkedIn: ...
Volunteer with Minae and GEN-J
April 13, 2020 19:50 - 4 minutes - 3.74 MBIn today's mini-episode I highlight an opportunity to help further Japan-US relations. Minae-san, an interviewee in an upcoming episode, is working at an organization called GEN-J, whose goal is to further the relationship between Japan and parts of the United States. If you're interested in helping out or learning more, check out some of the links below and reach out to Minae. Ideas for ways to help: volunteer dancers for Bon-Odori, Japanese traditional summer dance in Ann Arbor Japan Wee...
Shopping in Japan
March 16, 2020 09:00 - 7 minutes - 7.06 MBWhile in Japan, you will more likely than not have to go shopping at some point. And if you're lucky enough to have some spare time, you may decide to pick up some souvenirs for yourself, your coworkers, or loved ones back home. In today's season finale, I walk you through a few important things to know before heading out to make any purchase, big or small. Today's Phrase: [item] をください ~o ku-da-sa-i Meaning: Please give me [item]. Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi p...
Dining in Japanese Restaurants
March 10, 2020 14:23 - 7 minutes - 7.13 MBWhile you're in Japan, you'll hopefully get the chance to dine out at least a few times. But if you want to do so stress-free, you'll need to be aware of a few key differences and manners. Today we look over some distinct features of Japanese restaurants that will help you focus on what you really want to do: enjoy the food. Today's phrase: すみません su-mi-ma-se-n Meaning: "excuse me," "I'm sorry" [polite, not honorific] Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help m...
Surviving Japan: Bathrooms and Safety
March 02, 2020 15:53 - 7 minutes - 7.19 MBIn order to minimize stress and be more effective abroad, it's important to be prepared for the day-to-day situations you're likely to encounter there. Today, I'll share some more information on a few important topics for navigating Japan: bathrooms, crime, and police boxes. Trust me when I say that you don't want to be caught off guard in these areas. Today's phrase: [place/item]はどこですか 〜wa do-ko-de-su-ka Meaning: Where is [place/item]? Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's k...
Surviving Japan: Taxis and Money
February 25, 2020 14:18 - 6 minutes - 6.13 MBIn order to minimize stress and be more effective abroad, it's important to be prepared for the day-to-day situations you're likely to encounter there. Today, I'll share some information on a few important topics for navigating Japan: dealing with money, and taking a taxi. We will cover additional topics in future episodes, to be sure to subscribe to make sure you have all the essential information you need to survive in Japan. Today's Phrase: おはようございます o-ha-yo-u go-za-i-ma-su Meaning: G...
Japanese Body Language
February 18, 2020 10:00 - 6 minutes - 6.22 MBToday we'll go over some of the basics of nonverbal cues in Japan. While they're not unique to business situations, being more aware of this topic will help with all of your interactions in the country. Many of them are quite a bit different than in the West, so please listen and practice as I teach you about Japanese body language and a few important manners. Today’s phrase: こんばんは ko-n-ba-n-wa Meaning: Good evening. Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help me...
How to Behave in a Business Meeting
February 11, 2020 15:51 - 8 minutes - 7.42 MBIn the previous episode, we looked at some of the more technical aspects of business meetings in Japan. Today, we will continue digging more into the topic, focusing mostly on the more subtle behaviors you should be aware of in a meeting. Non-verbal and social cues are quite different in a Japanese business context than in western countries. So, the more of these details you know and expect to see, the more successful and effective your meeting will be for all involved. Today’s phrase: こんに...
Business Meeting Basics
February 06, 2020 13:33 - 9 minutes - 8.24 MBIn today’s episode, we cover some of the basics of what you should expect at a meeting in Japan. While some of the etiquette is probably just common sense in your own country, there are quite a few details that are unique to the Japanese way of doing business. While most of what is covered today wouldn’t be considered a deal-breaker if done incorrectly, it will help your meeting go as smoothly as possible. Also, demonstrating cultural awareness can only help as you work to strengthen your re...
The Basics of Bowing
January 28, 2020 21:28 - 8 minutes - 7.38 MBToday we look at another essential part of making a good first impression in a Japanese business: bowing etiquette. If you have ever been to Japan or watched anything from or about the country, you may have noticed just how frequently Japanese people bow in social situations. Some of the more common situations where bowing takes place include salutations, apologizing, gratitude, and, of course, when introducing yourself. So today I will walk you through the basic mechanics of how to bow wel...
Exchanging Business Cards in Japan
January 21, 2020 13:52 - 7 minutes - 6.56 MBToday we’re going talk about something else central to making a great first impression: business cards, or めいし (me-i-shi) in Japanese. While exchanging business cards may be pretty simple in your country, that’s not the case in Japan. Essentially, one’s business card is seen as a representation of the person who is giving it to you, as well as their company. All of the rules associated with business card etiquette discussed in this episode stem from that respect. New phrase: ちょうだいいたします ch...
Japanese Self-Introduction
January 13, 2020 15:10 - 10 minutes - 9.51 MBWe all know that making a good first impression is essential in business. So, if you want to make a positive one in Japan, what better way than to introduce yourself in Japanese? Today, we will look at how to introduce yourself politely in Japan. はじめまして。 Companyのyour nameです。 よろしくおねがいします。 ha-ji-me-ma-shi-te [company] no [your name] de-su yo-ri-shi-ku o-ne-ga-i-shi-ma-su Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help me stay well-caffeinated enough to keep the conte...