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Networking in Japan: What’s Holding Pros Back and How to Fix It
It’s not just shyness — it’s history, hierarchy, and habit.
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A Moment That Stuck with Me
At a networking event in Tokyo last year, the room seemed divided. On one side, Japanese professionals exchanged business cards (meishi) and chatted in structured, familiar groups. On the other, international attendees filled the space with energy and open conversations; you could hear their voices from across the room.
In the middle of it all, I noticed a young Japanese woman standing alone, holding her drink and glancing around. She didn’t approach anyone. I walked over, said hello, and after a bit of small talk, she opened up:
“It’s hard enough to approach someone in Japanese — doing it in English feels even more intimidating.”
The moment stayed with me. I’d seen this pattern before at other events and wondered: why is this hesitation so common? I spoke with people in my network to better understand what networking means in Japan.
