Intern : Cultural Points About Internships in Japan
By: Patrick Claydon Wednesday February 08 2012
Map: Home | Intern - Date Submitted: 2011-10-08 15:28:40 - Views: 229
Any foreigner coming to Japan is faced with a land both very modern and traditional.T he technologically advanced nation is home to many multinational corporations, and boasts the 3rd largest economy in the world (recently overtaken by China). Completing an internship in the country looks great on one's resume, adding work experience and leading to better opportunities in future.
Knowing the unique etiquette, business climate and culture of Japan will help to avoiding confusion, and aid in your assimilation into the environment, if you choose to participate in an internship in the country.
The biggest concern for foreigners is the Japanese work ethic, as they are known for working long hours. Working overtime shows dedication, commitment, diligence and a strong work ethic.Depending on the industry, workers may even work for 60 hours or more each week, showing up early, and generally not leaving until after their boss (as a show of respect).
In business settings, Japanese tend to keep an impassive face, and paying attention to nonverbal cues aids in understanding. Dress is conservative in the Japanese workplace - look at what your colleagues are wearing (and how they are wearing it) for a good indicator of acceptable attire.
A hierarchy system is strictly followed in the Japanese workplace. It is generally determined by age and position, but also by other factors to some extent. In business meetings, hierarchy determines the seating arrangement, with the most senior employee sitting furthest from the door and the least senior nearest. Punctuality to business meetings is essential in Japan, though meetings tend to run late.
Bowing is a large part of Japanese culture, while handshakes are not. While they are accepted, they are very uncommon, and besides handshakes, no other form of physical contact is acceptable. When exchanging business cards, pass the card by holding with both hands, and execute a small bow at the same time. One side of the card should be written in Japanese - present the card this side up.
Coworkers may invite you to dinner or drinks after work, and refusing can give an impression of being unfriendly or untrustworthy. It is important to be flexible and accept the offer, as it can be a great way to break the ice and fit in.
You may also find that in the restaurant, your bosses continually fill your glass to drink more. As it is rude to refuse, it is important to learn to pace yourself, and if you really must, it is important to know how to "politely" decline, so as to avoid any offense.
Communal bathing in Japan is common, and an important part of its culture. Ordinary baths (sento) and hot springs (onsen) are popular and foreigners face the possibility of getting naked with neighbors and friends. Coworkers sometimes attend a communal bath together after a work meeting or conference.
Males and females enter separate areas of the bathhouse, which are always strictly separated. Good etiquette requires that you thoroughly wash and rinse to remove all soap before getting into the bath. Baths are a gathering spot, so do not be surprised if coworkers or strangers want to chat while relaxing in the bath.
Size-wise, Japan is about the same size as New Zealand, but is home to over 120 million people. Not surprisingly, living spaces in Japan are cramped. To efficiently make use of space, many apartments, shops and other businesses build up.
Apartments tend to feature space saving designs such as narrower stovetops and sliding doors. Clutter can be a problem in such cramped quarters, but by using hooks on the walls to keep clothing and bags off the floor, and tall narrow furniture, valuable floor space is freed up.
Rice and noodles are Japanese diet staples. Fish and shellfish are used in hundreds of different dishes, often raw, grilled or steamed. Seaweed, tea and vegetables are also popular in Japanese cuisine. Chopsticks are commonly used when eating, and should never be used to pierce food or point at others.
While foreigners inevitably make some etiquette mistakes when first getting settled into their internship in Japan, remaining respectful, and keeping a smile on your face will go a long way towards smoothing over any cultural "faux-pas".
If you're looking for Internships in Japan, we're here to help you. We offer Internship opportunities in the Hotel / Tourism / Hospitality Industry at various Hotels across Japan. Let us help you source, apply, prepare for, and participate in Japan Internships today.
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Any foreigner coming to Japan is faced with a land both very modern and traditional. Knowing the unique etiquette, business climate and culture of Japan will help to avoiding confusion, and aid in your assimilation into the environment, if you choose to participate in an internship in the country. Viewed: 229 Times. Read More ...
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Any foreigner coming to Japan is faced with a land both very modern and traditional. Knowing the unique etiquette, business climate and culture of Japan will help to avoiding confusion, and aid in your assimilation into the environment, if you choose to participate in an internship in the country. Viewed: 229 Times. Read More ...
While doing an internship in Japan is a worthwhile experience, applying for one is of course not as easy as applying for one in your own country. The application process can take several months, so one should start seeking and applying for an internship position as early as possible. Viewed: 452 Times. Read More ...
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