Unless you have been living in Japan for an extended period of time, it is unlikely that a Japanese person would expect you to speak amazing Japanese. Furthermore, if you are doing business in Japan, you most likely will be accompanied by an interpreter or be working alongside someone from the host organisation who can speak English. However, showing affinity with Japan is appreciated and simple versions of polite Japanese phrases will go a long way to strengthen relationships with Japanese business and social partners. 

 

We are assuming that you are a total beginner at Japanese so we won’t confuse you with all the super polite bells and whistles, just be genuine and gentle!