In our increasingly globalized world, it is more important than ever to be able to communicate effectively in a foreign language. This is especially true in the business world, where email has become the primary mode of communication for many companies. If you are doing business in Japan, or with Japanese companies, it is essential that you learn to write effective business emails in Japanese. Toranomon Language School will be holding a one day workshop which will teach participants how to write simple and effective business related emails to their Japanese colleagues or customers. To sign up for the workshop, click here.
There are a few key things to keep in mind when writing business emails in Japanese. First, always use polite language. Second, be clear and concise. Third, use formal titles and honorifics when addressing your contacts. And fourth, use proper grammar and punctuation. Let’s take a closer look at each of these points.
Use Polite Language
In Japan, politeness is highly valued. This is reflected in the way people speak to one another, as well as in written communications such as email. When writing a business email in Japanese, always use polite language. This includes using formal verbs and honorifics when appropriate. The 12PM workshop on December 14 at Toranomon Language School will address just how to use polite Japanese in your emails even if you’re not a keigo expert.
Be Clear and Concise
Japanese people generally prefer to get straight to the point when communicating both verbally and in writing. When writing a business email in Japanese, be clear and concise. Get to the point quickly and avoid lengthy introductions or small talk. For example, if you are emailing to set up a meeting, simply state the purpose of the meeting and desired date and time rather than giving a longwinded explanation.
Use Formal Titles and Honorifics
When addressing someone in a business email, it is important to use formal titles and honorifics. For example, if you are emailing your co-worker, you would address him or her as “Tanaka-san” (Mr./Ms./Mrs. Tanaka). If you are emailing someone who is senior to you in rank at your company, you would address him or her as “Sato-sama” (highly revered person). And if you are emailing someone who is junior to you in rank at your company but whom you are on good terms with, you would address him or her as “Suzuki-kun” (Mr./Ms./Mrs. Suzuki). Toranomon’s business workshop will also address this point and clear up any questions you might have about honorifics.
Use Proper Grammar and Punctuation
It goes without saying that proper grammar and punctuation are important in any written communication, but this is especially true for business emails. In Japan, attention to detail is highly valued, so it is important to take care when writing business emails in Japanese. Make sure to double check your grammar and punctuation before hitting send! The workshop will go over common mistakes people make when writing emails in Japanese and how to fix them.
Writing effective business emails in Japanese requires careful attention to detail and adherence to certain etiquette rules. However, by following these simple guidelines and attending our workshop on the 14th, you can be sure that your communication will be well received by your Japanese contacts.