Japan Close-Up

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IMMIGRATION Is it the only way to survive?

Japan as we know it – the foreigner-averse economic powerhouse – is doomed. On that point there is general agreement; the demographics speak too clearly. The population is shrinking and aging at a pace that has no historical precedent. Japan must reinvent itself. But how?

Working with Japan

Questions: Normal or Nosy?

By Patricia Pringle

“We Just Met. Why Did He Ask Me How Old I Was?”
In last month's article, “Successful Small Talk,” I identified some differences between typical American and Japanese communication styles and suggested some relationship- building conversation topics. I also pointed out topics that Japanese find uncomfortable, upsetting and even taboo, and recommended that Americans avoid them. Later, I heard from one of my clients. “What if the shoe is on the other foot?” he asked. “What if my Japanese colleagues ask me questions that make me feel uncomfortable? For example, we had a new general manager visiting from Japan. The very first time we met, he asked me how old I was! We had just met! Not only was this a nosy question, but depending on who he asked, could have caused legal problems for our company.”