Japanese Business Etiquette & Keigo — Workplace Language Guide
Japanese workplace culture has its own language — keigo (敬語), or polite/formal speech. Understanding business Japanese is essential not just for passing JLPT N3 and above, but for actually functioning in a Japanese company. This module covers the expressions, phrases, and cultural knowledge you need from your first day.
The Three Levels of Keigo
- Sonkeigo (尊敬語) — Respectful language: Elevates the listener's actions. いらっしゃる (to be/go/come), おっしゃる (to say), なさる (to do), ご覧になる (to see/look). Used when speaking about your superior or client.
- Kenjōgo (謙譲語) — Humble language: Lowers your own actions to show respect. おります (I am), 申します (I say/am called), いたします (I do), 参ります (I go/come), 拝見します (I see/look). Used when talking about yourself to superiors or clients.
- Teineigo (丁寧語) — Polite language: The 〜ます/〜です form. This is the baseline for all professional communication in Japan.
Essential Business Phrases
- お世話になっております (Osewa ni natte orimasu) — Standard email/call opening: "Thank you for your continued support."
- よろしくお願いいたします (Yoroshiku onegai itashimasu) — Please treat me well / I look forward to working with you.
- 承知いたしました (Shōchi itashimashita) — Understood / I will do as you say. (More formal than わかりました.)
- 恐れ入りますが (Osore irimasu ga) — I am sorry to trouble you, but… (polite preface for requests).
- ご確認ください (Go-kakunin kudasai) — Please confirm / please check.
- お疲れ様です (Otsukare-sama desu) — Greeting to a colleague during or after work. Said constantly in Japanese offices.
- ご苦労様です (Gokurō-sama desu) — Similar to above but used by superiors to subordinates only. Do not use this to your boss.
Japanese Workplace Culture — Key Points
報告・連絡・相談 (Hōkoku-Renraku-Sōdan) — often called 報連相 (Hōren-Sō): This is the most important concept in Japanese work culture. Report progress to your superior regularly. Communicate any changes or issues immediately. Consult before making significant decisions. Foreign workers who fail to Hōren-Sō are seen as unreliable — even if their actual work is excellent.
Business card etiquette (名刺交換, meishi kōkan): Always receive a card with both hands and a slight bow. Read it carefully before placing it respectfully on the table (never write on it or put it in your pocket immediately). Present your own card face-up toward the recipient with both hands.
This module covers keigo expressions, business email phrases, meeting vocabulary, and workplace culture points — essential preparation for employment in Japan.