by Randall CraigFiled in: Blog, Business Development, Communication, Make It Happen Tipsheet, ManagementTagged as: Meetings, Objections
In Japanese culture, there is a cultural practice to avoid causing others to lose face. In business meetings, this often means that objections are not raised, and decisions are made apparently without a thorough discussion. While this is what appears to an outsider, the reality is far different.
The Japanese have a concept called Nemawashi. This is the process of laying the foundation for consensus by addressing issues one-on-one before the group meeting. The group meeting, then, becomes a final validation and the venue for public “buy-in” from the meeting attendees. When western-style meetings might end decisively, there may not be full buy-in. At the worst, bad feelings may cause participants to passively sabotage the goal. Time then must be spent monitoring progress/addressing new concerns.
While we may socialize an idea before a meeting, becoming a Nemawashi master means much more: It means the ability to develop the “right” solution by addressing the issues and requirements of key stakeholders beforehand. The meeting is then focused on the nuances of execution.
Every time you meet with a group of people – and it applies equally at the workplace or at home – be a Nemawashi master. Explore the issues, lay the groundwork, and seek consensus with each individual beforehand.
Business Development Insight: This same concept absolutely applies during the business dev process. Spending time collaborating with each participant beforehand can yield far more enduring results than “nailing” the big presentation itself.
Does this topic resonate? Reach out to Randall: he can present it to your group. (More presentation topics) Download Randall’s professional credentials: Speaker credentials one-sheet or Management Advisory credentials.
Content Authenticity Statement: 100% original content: no AI was used in creating this content.
@RandallCraig (Follow me for daily insights) www.RandallCraig.com: Professional credentials site.
Each week, get Randall’s 60-second action-oriented insights on building your business. Curious? Read 600+ past articles.
If you are interested in receiving these each week (there is no cost), fill in your name and address below.
Δ
Contact us for more on Randall’s topics, availability, and audience fit.