Business Manners and Hospitality
This domain tests visible professionalism: greetings, posture, bowing, seating,名片 exchange, phone manner, and the small anticipatory actions that define Japanese hospitality. The exam rewards correct sequence and awareness of relative position.
Core rules and concepts
- 身だしなみ, a clear greeting, and eye contact set the tone. Bow from the waist with a straight back; roughly 15° for casual greeting, 30° for business courtesy, 45° for apology or deep respect.
- 上座 is the seat farthest from the door or with the best view; 下座 is near the door. The host sits at 下座; the guest takes 上座.
- In elevators, hold the door, let guests enter first, and stand near the control panel. On stairs and corridors, guide from the guest’s side, slightly ahead, with an open palm.
- 名刺交換 uses both hands, text facing the receiver, and a brief read of the card. Do not write on a card in the owner’s presence.
Worked example
Ushering a guest into a meeting room. Reasoning: knock, announce, open the door while facing the guest, gesture them in first, indicate 上座, wait until they sit, then take 下座 near the door. Say “失礼いたします” when leaving. The sequence shows respect for position and avoids turning your back.
Traps that cost marks
Bowing while speaking so words are lost; walking ahead of the guest; pointing with one finger; saying “お疲れ様です” to a customer; sitting at 上座 as host; exchanging cards with one hand.