10 Cultural Faux Pas You Should Never Make in Japan

From language mishaps run amok--"I once said 'That's wonderful' when a person said her uncle died," confesses businessman Ron McFarland--to blowing your nose in public, there are many faux pas people unknowingly make when doing business in another culture. And Japan is rife with opportunities for Westerners to make mistakes.

Those mistakes could be what's standing between closing a big deal that will help your company weather the current economic storm--or not. Can you afford to leave anything to chance? (Don't miss 6 Cultural Faux Pas You Should Never Make in Russia, 10 Cultural Faux Pas You Should Never Make in India and 11 Cultural Faux Pas You Should Never Make in China.)

Below is a list of 10 common faux pas that you shouldn't make when in Japan as submitted by international business people.

1. Wait to be introduced. And while it may be customary for you to shake hands, the traditional form of greeting in Japan is the bow--the deeper you bow, the more respect you show.

2. As in China, treat the business card you receive as you would the person: receive it with both hands, examine it carefully and put it in a safe place after the meeting. It's a good idea to have one side of your card translated into Japanese; if you do, present your card with that side facing the receiver.

3. Wait to be told where to sit; protocol is important.

4. Realize that every member of the team is important and needs your respect, including the older gentleman in the corner snoozing through your presentation and the most junior facilitator. When presenting, do so to the senior member of your client's team.

5. If you decide to give a gift, the way it is wrapped is very important. Quality chocolates or small cakes are good options, but steer clear of white flowers and potted plants, except for bonsai trees. Present it to the most senior person at the end of the meeting.

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