Important Japanese Business Phrases
You might think business Japanese is on a whole other level in terms of formality, but it is actually not so much. This is at least how I feel, probably because Japanese language itself for everyday use is pretty formal already. Let’s master just 4 Japanese business phrases in case if you ever plan to work with Japanese people or in Japan. This will be a key to make or break your success in the Japanese workplace. Not really:) Japanese people don’t expect much from foreginers, but surely it would be a huge plus if you know these phrases and manners.
お世話になります。
Osewa ni narimasu.
“sewa ni naru”, 世話になる means “to be taken care of”.
This commonly-used phrase has a meaning along the lines of, “thank you for your support, kindness, work, etc”. You use it to show appreciation for someone’s continued work or service, or future work or service. “Sewa”, 世話 means “care” and You use it on the phone or in person business contacts and you always say it after the initial greeting before beginning your conversation.
For example: Osewa ni narimasu, Naomi desu.
This is Naomi, thank you for your work/service/taking care of me.
My vendor ‘s email still starts with “Osewani narimasu” every single time. I sometimes still write it, sometimes just write Hello or even write in English, or just go straight to the point. He knows me already, and in his eyes, I am American anyways.
お疲れ様です。or お疲れ様でした。
Otsukaresama desu. or Otsukaresama deshita (past tense)
疲 is the kanji for tiredness or fatigue.
These phrases are used extremely often and they mean, “Thank you for your hard work”. For example, you say it to your colleagues at the end of a project. Or instead of good bye, you can use “Otsukaresama deshita” after each shift to acknowledge their work and how tired they must be before leaving for home. You can also say “Otsukaresama desu” to your colleagues during the day in place of a greeting like konnichiwa, こんにちは. Here, you speak only in present tense since they are continuing to work.
頂戴いたします。
Chōdai itashimasu.
The verb “chōdai, 頂戴” means “receiving” in formal Japanese.
This is said in response to receiving something and it means, “I humbly receive”. A common situation where you would use this is when exchanging business cards. After saying your name and presenting your business card, you would then take the other person’s card in BOTH hands (very important - stand straight, receive the business card with both hands, and give a little bow to the business card) and say: “Chōdai itashimasu”. It is frequently followed by “yoroshiku onegai itashimasu よろしくお願い致します”, meaning “please look after me”.
承知しました。
Shōchi shimashita.
The verb “shōchi, 承知” means “knowledge” or “awareness”.
This is the polite way to say, “Okay, got it” to express that you have understood something. Normally you would say ryōkai desu 了解です to your colleagues, however “Shōchi shimashita” is better when responding to bosses, clients and when writing emails.
There is so much more to learn when it comes to business Japanese and understanding business culture in Japan. I was an executive assistant to CEO at a fortune 500 comapany (a Japanese bank) in NYC until my son was born. I know how to open the door, which one to serve a cup of tea first from where they sit in the meeting room, how to arrange a luncheon meeting, and all kinds of manners. But let’s just start with these 4 business Japanese phrases and you’ve got a good foundation to work with (as a gaijin).
