Japanese vs American work customs, which one do you like more?

Hello readers… new information today is about the difference work customs between two coutries that is Japan and America.

Different countries, different cultures. Including work customs, one of the factors that makes the culture of country A different from country B is the history of each country. Now let’s see the difference of Japanese and American work customs:

1.      Formal vs Casual

Japanese formal uniform

Japanese work customs make workers there more formal than America. Especially in areas with the largest working population such as Tokyo. The major of Japanese formal uniform tends to be dark like gray or black. Women wear white shirts, dark blazers and heels. While men wear shirt with tie.

Unlike America, which has more casual style. According to Deirdre Clemente, an American cultural historian, the way to dress is a form of freedom, a value that has been uphold by the people of America. So, anyone is free to choose an outfit that suits their character and preferences. This applies also in the world of work.

American casual suit

2.      Seniority culture

Japan has a work culture ho-ren-so, short for houkoku (report),  renraku (communication) and Soudan (consultation). In this culture, every employee in japan must report, talk and consult especially to their seniors. This make the juniors really reluctant with their seniors. In other words, in Japanese work custom the element of seniority is very thick. But seniority is clearly not applicable in America. As long as you have good skills, you can just express your opinions without going through senior permission first. Culture in Indonesia isn’t different much with Japan. Eating together with seniors, especially company officials is clearly difficult for ordinary employees.

3.      Individualistic vs Grouping

Japan and Indonesia are countries with a collective culture. Therefore, they tend to have a work customs in group. One of the impact is that Japanese and Indonesian people tend to be cautious in expressing opinions or critisms. They fear that there will be a negative impact. Conversely, even if American workers can work in group, they actually prioritize working alone. American also tend to be more encourageous in expressing their personal opinions even if they contradict senior opinions.

4.      Silent is a gold

In American work custom, meeting are the right time for rainstorming and discussing a project or problem. Disclaimer refuting opinions is a common thing, even among seniors and juniors. While Japanese culture considers meetings no more as an opportunity for reporting. So even though they have different views with their leader or the other person, they prefer to keep it in their hearts.

5.      Socialization after working

Still related to the collective work custom, Japanese employees often hang out or socialize after office hours. This is considered to strengthen relations between employees. Ranging from dinner together or going to karaoke after working. This habit also often happens to Indonesian employees. May be you are one of them..

Workers in every countries may be different. Even though it’s different doesn’t mean that one is better or worse than the other one. Every culture and habit certainly has its own positive and negative sides. Thanks for reading..😊