WorldBusinessCulture.com (2009) notes, "Meetings are often preceded by long, non-business polite conversation . . . Do not become exasperated by this use of your time, as it is an essential element of the relationship-building process" (p. 1).

Though Japanese business etiquette demands respect for those involved in business ventures, one area that is still dated is the treatment of women in business. In Japan, women are often discriminated against in the workplace. Author Charles Darwent (2008) notes, "If you - or any of your vital staff are female, then Japan is very probably not a place in which you will necessarily want to do business" (p. 126). It is noted that "the average annual income for women in Japan stands at around 50% of the male level -- which is a powerful statistic" (WorldBusinessCulture, p.5). This is one custom that may be difficult for many traveling into Japan to handle....
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