Understanding and overcoming business etiquette differences in Japan, Turkey, and the United States of America

Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to utilize both Forsythe’s Ethics position questionnaire and the Big-5 Mini-Markers ten-item personality scale to analyze their relevance in determining business etiquette differences in three nations. Design/methodology/approach – Samples from Japan (n = 73), Turkey (n = 95) and the USA (n = 128) were surveyed using these two resources. Generally, the results of these surveys support the research presented in this paper characterizing the USA as idealistic with a focus on individualism, while Japan stresses respect and agreeableness. Findings – Interestingly, members of the Turkey sample found it inappropriate to reveal views on ethics, and failed to answer several questions. In turn, the 0.069 level of significance of the regression formula for the Turkey analyses did not meet the less than or equal to 0.05 level to declare a relationship as significant. Research limitations/implications – This research discusses whether Forsythe or the Big-5 Mini-Markers surveys provide relevant information to companies that are looking to educate employees on challenges when interacting in a global market. By looking at several aspects to the typical business meeting – from the initial handshake to how to properly exchange business cards – each country has developed a specific set of cultural norms. By incorporating the results of Forsythe and Big-5 Mini-Markers surveys, a comprehensive approach is being used to present the differences. Originality/value – The resulting paper is a detailed analysis focusing on the behavioral and ethical reasons why a particular nation might stress certain business etiquette procedures more than another. A business that understands these core differences gains a worldly perspective and the power to succeed in the international market.