From April 14 to 27, 2025, I embarked on a strategic business trip to Japan, visiting key cities including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Yokohama. The purpose of the trip was to conduct relationship reviews with our major clients and explore opportunities to secure larger job orders—a move that underscores our organization’s commitment to growing its presence in the Japanese market.
Strengthening Relationships Through Annual Visits
For me, this was more than just another overseas assignment. I make it a point to visit Japan every year, ensuring that client relationships are nurtured through consistent, in-person engagement. These annual visits are part of my personal approach to partnership-building, rooted in trust, transparency, and a shared vision for long-term success. By being present, I can have deeper conversations, understand evolving client needs, and align recruitment strategies that support mutual growth.
Key Meetings and Strategic Alignment
Throughout my trip, I conducted key meetings with partners to review ongoing projects, assess future workforce requirements, and present client-specific solutions. These discussions strengthened business alignment and paved the way for potential expansion across various sectors.
Personal Touch and Cultural Engagement
My wife, Sanne, also joined me during client lunches, dinners, and cultural tours. Her presence brought a warm, personal dynamic to the interactions, which was greatly appreciated in Japan’s relationship-centered business culture. These shared meals and casual moments helped foster closer ties with clients, building not just professional connections but genuine friendships as well.
Exploring Japan’s Cultural Treasures
Outside of business engagements, we took time to explore some of Japan’s most iconic destinations. In Kyoto, we walked along the tranquil Kyoto River, taking in the city’s natural and historic beauty. In Osaka, we visited the renowned Osaka Castle, a cultural treasure that reflects Japan’s spirit of resilience and tradition. One of the most memorable highlights of the trip was attending a live basketball game featuring the Kyoto Hannaryz. The energy of the crowd and the excitement of the match offered a unique glimpse into Japan’s vibrant local sports scene, making it a fun and engaging cultural experience.
A Country Close to My Heart
Japan holds a very special place in my heart. It remains one of my favorite countries to visit—not only for its hospitality and professionalism, but also because of the long-standing relationships and meaningful experiences that continue to grow with each visit. My consistent presence in Japan reflects both personal fondness and strategic commitment.
Pathways to Expansion
Drawing from the insights gathered during the trip, I have identified several areas of opportunity to expand operations in Japan:
- Strengthening Client Engagement – Maintaining annual visits and continuous communication to build lasting trust.
- Customized Workforce Solutions – Adapting services to each client’s industry needs and recruitment challenges.
- Partnership with Local Institutions – Working closely with sending organizations and training centers to develop a reliable talent pipeline.
- Efficiency Through Innovation – Improving documentation and deployment processes with a focus on speed and accuracy.
This year’s visit reaffirmed EDI’s dedication to the Japanese market—a place that continues to be both a strategic priority and a personal favorite for me.
Let’s Build Stronger Partnerships Together
Inspired by our Japan business visit, John Clements Consultants continues to foster meaningful client relationships and deliver tailored workforce solutions. Ready to explore opportunities with us? Contact us today.
