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Silence
In
Japan, silence is just as important as speaking. It is a
designated moment to understand what has just been
communicated. It is a moment to think and an opportunity
to respond in a well thought out manner. In the West,
silence is considered as an awkward moment and we try to
mask this uncomfortable feeling with words. It is best
not to try to break the silence as you might appear
insincere. It would be better to relax and appear
patient with your Japanese counterpart. You should be
considering the value of what has been said.
Silence
or what is not said can be just as important as what is
said. If one point is said, the listener is expected to
understand the others points that are not said. You must
read in between the lines or pick up on what has been
implied. Often the subject of a sentence is not stated
in so many words; it is just understood "who"
or "what" is being referred to.
FACIAL
GESTURES
THE
UNCOMMITTED FACE of the Japanese is very common. It is
considered rude to overtly express your emotions in
public. The "Poker Face" is used to cover up
negative emotions as well as used as a shield to protect
your privacy.
THE
SMILE can often be an expression that conceals
embarrassment, pain, or anguish. In an uncomfortable
situation it is not uncommon for the Japanese to give a
nervous laugh or awkward smile to conceal the true
emotion.
EYE
CONTACT is often a Western signal for confidence or
sincerity. In many cases, the Japanese consider direct
and constant eye contact a rude gesture that means
defiance or challenge. The Japanese may shift their eyes
or look down to show respect to another.
TOUCHING
In
the beginning, it is best to refrain from forms of
physical contact such as a pat on the back or a hug. The
Japanese do not show signs of affection or emotions in
public. Young couples may be seen holding hands, but it
is embarrassing to see spouses kiss in public.
SHOWING
RESPECT TO OBJECTS
Material
objects or items from someone are shown just as much
respect as the person might be. Business cards are not
folded, written on, or fiddled with. A guest's coat is
not thrown over a chair but instead hung up carefully,
sometimes taking care to brush away imaginary lint. The
wrapping paper on a gift that has been graciously
presented is not crumpled up insignificantly, rather it
is gently folded and the ribbon often retied around the
paper or placed carefully on top of the wrapping paper.
At a traditional Japanese restaurant or home, the
guest's shoes are placed together and turned around so
that the guest can easily put his or her shoes back on
when leaving. Furniture is used |
General Section
