Israel Japan | Business Guide | 2023

T he relationship between Japan and Israel has been growing steadily in the recent years, with the two countries engaging in a variety of economic, political, and cultural exchanges. This growing relationship has been beneficial for both countries, as it has allowed them to share knowledge and resources, as well as foster mutual understanding and respect. However, despite this, there are still some challenges that need to be addressed to bridge the gaps in business culture and behavior between the Japanese and Israelis. The business culture and behavior gaps between Japanese and Israelis can be quite significant. Japanese culture is often characterized by a strong sense of hierarchy, formality, with a strong emphasis on respect for authority and group consensus, while Israeli culture is often characterized by amore informal and direct communication, with a greater emphasis on individual initiative and creativity. The Japanese tend to bemore reserved and less likely to express their opinions openly, while Israelis are more likely to speak their minds. The Japanese tend to bemore indirect and subtle in their communication, while Israelis are more direct and forthright. The Japanese tend to bemore patient and willing to wait for the right moment to act, while Israelis are more likely to act quickly. Finally, the Japanese tend to be more formal and conservative in their dress, while Israelis are more casual and relaxed. How to overcome the gaps To bridge these cultural gaps, it is important for both sides to be aware of and respect the differences in their respective cultures. Japanese and Israelis should strive to understand each other’s cultural values and expectations and be open to adapting each other’s ways of doing business. Some ways to achieve this are: 1 . Establish trust ●● Encourage open and honest communication between Japanese and Israelis to build trust, by having regular meetings to discuss any issues arising from differences in business culture and behavior. ●● Create safe spaces for Japanese and Israeli people to share their opinions and experiences without fear of judgment or criticism. 2 . Develop a shared understanding of each other’s culture and behavior, through cultural exchange programs, business seminars, and other activities that allow both sides to learn more about each other. 3 . Building Relationships ●● Develop relationships between Japanese and Israeli people through social events, networking, and other activities. ●● Foster mutual respect between Japanese and Israeli people by recognizing and celebrating each other’s cultures and traditions. ●● Promote understanding by providing educational resources and opportunities to learn about each other’s culture. 4 . Focus on common goals and objectives to bridge the gaps, by setting up joint projects and initiatives that will benefit both sides. 5 . Collaboration is the key in bridging the gaps. Both sides should work together to identify areas of common interest and develop strategies to address them. 6 . Respect differences between the two cultures and be open to learn fromeach other, throughmutual respect and appreciation of each other’s culture and behavior. The business culture and behavior gaps between Japanese and Israelis can be challenging to bridge. By taking these steps, understanding and respecting each other’s cultures, Japanese and Israelis can work together to overcome cultural and behavioral differences and create successful and enduring business relationships. Cultural sensitivity is the key to better Israel-Japan relationships Business culture and behavior gaps between Japanese and Israelis can be overcome by understanding each other’s cultural values and business practices | Sharon Dekel Sharon Dekel is the Chairperson and CEO of AddValue. www.addvalueinv.com Israel-Japan > Business Guide > 2023 22 > General Information > Business Culture