We've found there are some differences between business manners in the US and Japan. Firstly, we were surprised at the way people exchange business cards! It's done very casually! People don't always use two hands, it's very relaxed, not formal and often people introduce themselves with just their first name and a strong handshake. This is what happens in the real world.
Secondly, in the office at Birkman, we keep the doors open. It's very friendly, everyone talks to each other, greets each other. In Japan, sometimes people work in a big open office yet no one talks to each other! In the USA in the office we are working in even the CEO keeps her door open. It feels really nice to communicate with people!
Thirdly, flexi time is a big part of the American working day. This means that people can work flexible schedules. For example, they could work from 6:00am until 4:00 pm if they are early birds! Or even from 10:00 am until 7:00 pm depending on their schedule, e.g. If they have to take kids to school or have other duties. This is very flexible and makes the workers very happy! It's very convenient. Everyone gets their work done and not so many people need to do overtime.
I got surprised too at my office. Everybody left work at 5 o'clock! No overtime work.
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