Japanese Introductions: Workplace Etiquette & Family Meetings
Learn essential Japanese introduction phrases for workplaces and family meetings. Master hajimemashite etiquette, self-introductions, and cultural tips for lasting first impressions.
April’s New Beginnings in Japan
As April arrives in Japan, you’ll frequently hear the phrase 初めまして (hajimemashite)—the go-to greeting for first meetings. This aligns with 新年度 (shinnendo), the fresh start for schools and companies, making it prime time for new connections. Whether welcoming colleagues or adapting to cultural norms, mastering introductions is key to strong 第一印象 (daiichi inshō, first impressions).
Workplace Introductions: A Formal Dialogue Example
Scenario: New colleagues Carter (international hire) and Nakamura (PR team member) meet:
カーター:
初めまして。カーターと申します。イギリスから参りました。よろしくお願いいたします。
中村:
広報部の中村です。よろしくお願いします。今日からご入社なんですね。
カーター:
はい。広報部に配属されました。早く慣れるよう努力します。
Translation:
Carter: Nice to meet you. I’m Carter from the U.K. Pleased to work with you.
Nakamura: I’m Nakamura from PR. Welcome aboard! You started today, correct?
Carter: Yes, I’m assigned to PR. I’ll strive to adapt quickly.
Key Phrases for Professional Settings
- Humble Self-Introduction:
Use ～と申します (~to mōshimasu) instead of 私の名前は～です. Example: 「デザイン部のカーターと申します」
(I’m Carter from the Design Team). - Mentioning Affiliation:
Lead with your department/company: 「ジャパンニュースの中村です」 (I’m Nakamura from Japan News). - Passive vs. Honorific Verbs:
- 入社された (nyūsha sareta): Honorific for "joined the company."
- 配属されました (haizoku saremashita): Passive for "was assigned."
Personalizing Your Introduction
- Origin: Simplify with ～出身です (~shusshin desu). Example: 「ロンドン出身です」 (I’m from London).
- Name Preferences: Clarify with 「カーターかカートと呼んでください」 (Please call me Carter or Curt).
- Hobbies/Skills:
- 趣味は写真撮影です (My hobby is photography).
- 特技は料理で、和食を学んでいます (I specialize in cooking and am learning Japanese cuisine).
Building Connections Through Common Ground
At networking events like 歓迎会 (kangeikai, welcome parties), ask:
- 「山田さんとはどちらでご一緒されましたか？」 (How do you know Yamada-san?).
- 「プロジェクトで頻繁に連携されるんですか？」 (Do you collaborate often on projects?).
Meeting a Partner’s Family: Formal Introductions
Sample Dialogue:
初めまして。ゆりさんと交際しておりますカーターと申します。本日はお招きいただきありがとうございます。
Translation:
Nice to meet you. I’m Carter, dating Yuri. Thank you for inviting me today.
Key Tips:
- Use humble language: お付き合いさせていただいております (I’ve been privileged to date…).
- Express gratitude: 「お忙しい中ありがとうございます」 (Thank you for your time amidst your busy schedule).
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