Adapting to cross-cultural leadership is one of the challenges global companies face. The impact on interpersonal relationships, flexibility and communication are some that must be addressed efficiently. With the long history of partnership of Philippines and Japan reveals the success on surpassing the barriers between cultures.
What is cultural excellence of Japanese companies?
Japanese companies’ reputation has been globally acknowledge focusing on quality, innovation, discipline, and long-term success. The diverse industries they explore is no question why they are often regarded as benchmarks for excellence.
With their excellence, lies the strong foundation of Japanese values that are rooted to their heritage and principles. From their home to conference rooms, they have applied and thoughtfully incorporate these teachings to their success.
I attended Weekly with JC for HR and Leadership Series with the topic on Building a Culture of Excellence: Lessons from Japanese Company Values and Practices. The speaker was Satoshi Matsuo – President & CEO, BPI Tokyo Century Rental Corporation with Panelists Michael Alexander Co – General Manager, Business Development, Marubeni Philippines Corporation
Fumihiko Sato – Former Vice Chairman, ORIX Metro Leasing & Finance Corporation; Curriculum Planner, Aoba-BBT Corporation.
One of the topic Speaker Matsuo-san shared was about bridging the gaps on Filipino worker priority with management values. The management compromised with the workers priority and aligning with Japanese principles and values where it showed the importance of collaboration to drive the company to its goal.
Harmony in the Workplace
Harmony in the workplace is one of the values Japanese put strong emphasis to as they believe that it contributes to the increased productivity and fostering loyalty and commitment in the company.
One strategy about adapting to leadership that Mutsuo-san shared was about embracing the Harmony model: “Filipino Heart; Japanese Discipline” where it integrates Filipino warmth and empathy with Japanese management, approachability and accountability.
Culture is dynamic and evolving, as Panelist Michael mentioned and shared the creed of Marubeni Corporation cited as Sei, Shin, Wa which translates to Fairness, Innovation and Harmony. Being a Filipino working in a Japanese company, he adapted its principles and values with highlight on respect, and politeness. One of the Japanese decision-making process their company practices is the Ringi System, rooted in their culture, from which it emphasizes trust and open communication with the team.
Panelist Fumi-san amplify the values on trust and the importance on interpersonal relationships in the workplace. Japanese management ensure to celebrate every win in the company as it will help to boost employee morale and fulfill its role to social responsibility.
Japanese Culture of Excellence is a Competitive Edge
Kaizen in Japanese means continuous improvement. Small acts – if consistently done, would create a huge impact on one’s goal.
Organizations can adapt to Japanese values and align it with their strategies to building a culture of excellence.
- Practice and Foster Respect and Politeness
- Build a Culture of Trust
- Value Interpersonal Relationships
- Fulfill Corporate Social Responsibility
Embracing Japanese values like trust, politeness, and human connection—alongside Filipino values—fosters a respectful, adaptable, and high-performing workplace culture.
Build a Culture of Excellence in Your Workplace
Ready to integrate Japanese company values into your leadership strategy? At John Clements Consultants, we help organizations bridge cultural gaps and elevate workplace performance through tailored HR solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can support your journey to leadership excellence.
