Warning: ganbaru can be dangerous to your health
The widely used term "gambatte" is often poorly translated into English, but remains an essential part of the Japanese work ethic...
Japanese business keywords
Omoiyari: anticipating a customer’s needs
The ability to anticipate someone else' needs and fulfill them before they ask is highly prized in Japan....
Chosei: the Japanese art of “coordination” in business
Japanese often say "coordinate" when they mean "chosei," a key part of how Japanese companies get things done...
Saihatsu boshi – learning from mistakes to prevent repeat problems
How Japanese companies analyze errors and implement countermeasures...
Itabasami: negotiating between a cultural rock and a hard place
What happens when an overseas manager is caught between the Japanese parent company and the U.S. operation...
Aisatsu: a happy start to the new year
New year's greetings build stronger relationships with colleagues, customers and suppliers...
Breaking through an impasse with a Japanese firm
How to overcome a sticky impasse with Japanese and get results...