Business habits on a trade show
In Japan as in any other overseas country you will find specific business habits. When you are not familiar with these, you shall behave as with any other business contact. However, here are some tips which you may find helpful when talking to Japanese customers during the trade show.Stand decoration
You are free to choose your stand layout and stand decoration. However, the walk-on package based on a shell scheme stand is practical and trade visitors in Japan will consider this as appropriate. We recommend decorating your stand with typical photos and pictures showing your company and/or your production process.
Language
In Japan English is not as widely spread as in Europe. Even when speaking English, Japanese visitors tend to be too shy to practice in front of Western people. An interpreter will ease the understanding of each other. In addition trade visitors will recognise that at your stand there will be no communication problem since you were considering this problem in advance and are caring that Japanese visitors feel at ease at your stand. The interpreter is an investment that will pay off easily.
Name cards
are very important in Japan. They shall be translated into Japanese and also clearly explain your rank and responsibility. When receiving a business card, yours will be expected in return. Name cards are the first step when getting into contact and shall be handled with care. You should give them with both hands making sure that your name is not up-sidedown for the visitor. You should study them briefly and keep them on the table during the business talks. It is regarded as very impolite to make notes on the name cards or to put them into your pockets before sitting down for talking. Translation and print services are offered through NürnbergMesse Group.
Bowing
In Japan people are greeting each other by bowing rather than by shaking hands. The way of bowing depends on the relationship and is very difficult to understand for Non-Japanese.Thus it is sufficient if you smile and indicate a bow by a deeper nod.
Dress code
Business men in Japan tend to dress in a conservative way. Trade visitors will look at you as a representative of your company and therefore it is recommended to avoid extravagant clothes and loud accessories (ear rings for men, fancy neck-ties). Your attire should underline the professional image and seriousness of your company and staff.
Information materials
Decisions in Japan are taken by a group of people. Therefore make sure to have a sufficient number of information brochures available. However, it is not necessary to translate your complete brochures into Japanese. English versions are sufficient when including a Japanese fact sheet with the basic product and company information. This can easily be photo-copied on site when necessary and is another gesture to show that you are considering the language of your future customers. Print and translation service can be ordered through NürnbergMesse Group.
Stand catering
Visitors will not expect a lavish catering service. Offering drinks as refreshment is sufficient and we recommend considering the various local tea drinks which are very popular in Japan.
