Working with Japan
Understanding the pauses, patterns, and perspectives behind successful collaboration.
A talk for Management, HR, L&D and sales teams who are currently working, or starting to work, with Japanese customers, partners or investors. What to expect, what to avoid, and why it matters to the deal.
Book a call
attended SIBAT's Japan Seminar held in September 2026, where this talk was delivered.
What the talk covers
Hierarchy
Who decides, who speaks first, and where everyone sits.
Building trust
Why the relationship comes before the contract.
Decision making
How consensus moves through a Japanese company - and why “yes” takes time.
Nonverbal cues
Silence, pauses, and what “that may be difficult” really means.
Written communication
Emails and documents a Japanese partner will take seriously.
Nomikai
The after-work dinner where relationships are actually built.
Kaizen
Continuous improvement - and what it means for your product and support.
In English or Hebrew
Real stories from 25+ years of meetings in Japan - not a textbook.
Formats
One session for a large audience - conferences, company events, all-hands.
Smaller group, with role-play on meetings, emails and negotiation.
For the people flying to Japan next month, built around your actual meetings.
Bring the talk to your team.
Tell me about your audience and I'll suggest the right format. Or email izi@amadolink.com