Punctuality

Attitudes and behaviour. Etiquette.

Japanese in Europe have reluctantly learned to use first names but feel more comfortable when addressed by the last name followed by son. Senior people may be addressed by their title plus san instead of last name. First names are reserved for family and close friends.

Titles, modes of address and language are carefully measured to indicate relative status, as are the other subtle status symbols of office life such as job titles or the positioning of desks in an open office. For example, seniors would have their backs to the windows where they could enjoy the privilege of natural light, in contrast with the fluorescent lighting pervading Japanese offices. While very sensitive to fine distinctions of rank, the western use of material goods to communicate achievement and authority are noticeably lacking. Offices are workmanlike, cars are unostentatious and soon.

More important than the actual forms of language and behaviour is pervasive politeness and a concern to avoid embarrassment to oneself or others. Displays of temper or any other uncontrolled emotions are seen as a sip of weakness.

Japanese manners are based on reciprocation, a sense of mutual indebtedness. To many westerners the excessive deference of a subordinate to a superior is less surprising than that it is returned in kind. Relationships between all levels are built on exchange, whether gifts, courtesies, help, information and so on.

Extreme politeness does not exclude openness in relationships. Europeans, especially women, may be surprised at the personal nature of conversations. This is usually because Japanese need to know people well before they can be comfortable with them. In some European countries you need not trust people to work with them as long as they do their job. In a Japanese environment there is a higher tolerance of professional and human frailty, but it is compensated with a greater demand for loyalty and trust.

Japanese are very punctual when politeness requires it and especially with senior people. Otherwise time is fluid. A meeting will carry on until it is finished or interrupted by the demands of a senior person outside. The working day can be very long, reflecting a demanding work ethic and a high level of commitment. Being the first to leave, even if you have no work to do, is a snub to the group and an embarrassment to your senior. As in Japan, Japanese may regularly work on Saturdays, rarely take more than a week's vacation or their full entitlement, and count sick days as holiday.

Дата добавления: 2014-11-29