Differences and Similarities among Japanese, Chinese and Korean CEOs
There are numerous resemblances and differences between Chinese, Japanese and Koreans. As a matter of fact, these people can be interpreted as either belonging to a single society or three different social orders. You have to make comparisons in various aspects before making a conclusion on this matter.
Asian CEOs particularly Japanese, Chinese and Koreans have similarities. Management styles definitely vary. However, there are definitely similarities among these nationalities. Bowing is one trait that seems the same for all three. However, this practice has evolved considerably for each country during the last few years. This shows that you can easily identify executives from Japan compared to Korea or China.
Facial features are also similar since the three nationalities are Asian. Many Westerners will definitely find it hard to tell the difference. However, it is not only the skin tone but the shape of the face and hair structure which are poles apart. Likewise, chopsticks are common utensils for them. Yet, the chopsticks of each race have unique disparities. Chopsticks from China are generally longer and thicker compared to the Korean and Japanese sticks.
Distinct Characteristics
You can easily perceive differences in race because of individual mannerisms. For instance, Japanese and Koreans bow slightly in greeting one another. On the other hand, deeper bows are appropriate in more formal situations. Chinese CEOs are more forward-looking and opt for the handshake as a common form of greeting. You will see a slight nod of the head instead of the customary bow. This proves that the Chinese have been influenced more by Western culture.
Another conspicuous mannerism is the volume and pitch in speaking. Chinese are more inclined to raise their voices and laugh boisterously. This is very different from Koreans and Japanese who prefer to remain relatively silent and limit their laughter especially in public places. Chinese tend to be noisy even in common areas like malls, restaurants, parks, and streets. An American author once wrote that while on vacation in a city of Japan, he chanced upon Chinese tourists who got on a train. Once they started talking, it seemed as if these individuals were miles apart from each other.
Style of Dressing
Fashion is another factor for determining if the chief executive officer is from Japan, China or Korea. Chinese executives go for Western apparel and fashion accessories. CEOs dress more formally compared to those in lower levels who prefer casual clothing. Japanese also dress to impress so expect business suits and classy ties for the typical CEO. Yet, both men and women in Japan pick subtle colors. Likewise, most women will opt for shorter skirts while men pick tighter slacks.
You can expect Koreans to look prim and proper as well for very formal business meetings. However, Korean nationals yearn for brighter colors compared to the Japanese. People from Japan especially those belonging to the corporate class will never go out of the house without being dressed immaculately. On the contrary, Koreans have a penchant for branded shoes, accessories, shoes and clothing
Language Aspect
Language is one aspect where the distinct difference can be seen. Although Americans, Europeans and Africans may not figure out instantly which is Chinese, Nippon or Korean, Asians can better single out who is from China and who is not. The argument will make sense if you become familiar with their diverse cultures and behavior. This is very true since the dialect of a person tells more about his or her culture. You will learn about the person’s ethnic group and upbringing once he or she begins talking.
The Japanese language is made up of only five vowels but 100 different syllables with limited variants. You will notice Japanese speaking without difficulty because of the vowels. Most Japanese words end in vowels or the letter “N”. In contrast, Korean words end in consonants except for “N”. Nevertheless, they have straightforward vowels and syllabic systems just like the Japanese.
China’s language is a lot more different. For example, the official standard dialect of the Chinese (Mandarin) contains various vowel sounds foe every English equivalent. The thing to watch is the qualities and mannerisms of Chinese which are very evident. They increase and decrease tones as well as intonations abruptly. The Chinese also put together consonants which people from Korea and Japan do not.
Westerners and even other Asians can identify a Chinese in a big crowd but will surely make a mistake when it comes to someone from Korea or Japan. The bottom line is you will not find it trouble-free to choose which CEO is from China or Japan and Korea for that matter. Never assume since each one is exceptionally unique. It pays to learn more about the culture, customs, languages, religion, and history before making a guess.
