Fostering Cross-Cultural Understanding Through Comprehensive Protocol Training
The International Protocol Academy of Japan (ICPA) has successfully delivered a specialised Japanese Business Etiquette and Protocol Basic Training programme to the Protocol staff of the US Air Force in Japan. This bespoke training initiative aimed to enhance cross-cultural business communication and relationship-building capabilities.
Programme Overview
- Duration: 5 days (90-minute sessions, total 7.5 hours)
- Format: Live online training
- Participants: US Air Force Protocol staff in Japan
- Lead Instructor: Mari Cecilia Murata (Internationally Certified Protocol Specialist)
Comprehensive Curriculum
Day One: Cultural Foundations
- Cross-cultural Awareness
- Intercultural understanding theory
- Cultural dimensions framework
- US-Japan cultural comparisons
- Historical Context
- Western influence on Japanese business culture
- Modern Japanese corporate practices
- Cultural fusion in contemporary Japan
Day Two: Communication Essentials
- Non-verbal Communication
- Understanding subtle Japanese gestures
- Reading facial expressions
- Spatial awareness and positioning
- Business Etiquette Foundations
- Proper bowing techniques
- Business card exchange protocol
- Professional greeting customs
Day Three: Business Socialisation
- Conversation Protocol
- Appropriate topics for discussion
- Demonstrating respect and humility
- Active listening techniques
- Gift-Giving Culture
- Significance in Japanese business
- Selection and presentation protocol
- Seasonal and occasional customs
Day Four: Relationship Building
- Long-term Partnership Development
- Understanding ‘jinmyaku’ (networking)
- Trust-building strategies
- Maintaining business relationships
- Negotiation Techniques
- Japanese decision-making processes
- Consensus-building approaches
- Harmony-focused strategies
Day Five: Event Management
- Hosting Japanese Guests
- ‘Omotenashi’ hospitality principles
- Seating arrangements protocol
- Event planning considerations
Participant Testimonials
“From the very beginning, the ICPA team was very helpful in designing a course that fit our specific training needs for Japanese Protocol. Their communication and interaction were excellent, and they were a pleasure to work with. The course material was designed with our feedback, and we could tell they were committed to our growth in this field.” — Amber Waldo, Protocol Officer
“Murata-sensei and Ayaka-san are wonderful professionals who aim to teach Japanese culture in a very detailed, yet effective manner. The Etiquette and Protocol course increased my knowledge of customs and courtesies. I have more confidence engaging with Japanese professionals and dignitaries.” — Vianca Peters, Protocol Officer
“From a Japanese perspective, the course demonstrated excellent variety whilst maintaining cohesion. The integration of Japanese traditions and history created engaging content. The structure effectively captured Japanese sensibilities whilst remaining highly accessible to international participants.” — Miho Ohtaka, Cultural Expert
Programme Distinctions
- Practical Application Focus
- Integration of theory and practice
- Real-scenario simulations
- Immediate implementation capability
- Customised Content Delivery
- Tailored to US Air Force requirements
- Scenario-based learning
- Interactive skill development
- Comprehensive Skill Development
- Enhanced cultural awareness
- Practical protocol application
- Strategic relationship building
About ICPA
The International Protocol Academy of Japan specialises in international protocol education, fostering effective cross-cultural communication. With over two decades of experience, ICPA remains committed to building stronger international relationships through cultural understanding and professional protocol training.
