Recently, we spoke about why Japanese products tend to be some of the most respected and revered on the market – in all lines of living. From their hardware and electronics to their clothing and their cosmetics, Japanese products tend to be safer, more secure and just in general better for you than what you might have been used to.
To this point, last time we talked about some specific reasons or topics, namely the Japanese work ethic, uniqueness, monozukuri and high standards. Today we want to shine a light on why these high standards exist so clearly from a Japanese cultural perspective.
The Art of the Craft
In Japan, it’s vital that a product is always given the right level of time, patience and credibility in development. Typically, Japan favors a meritocratic solution whereby a product will only be made by the right person for the task. A desire to appreciate not just the finished product but the work that goes into it has been a major part of Japanese psyche and culture for generations.
For that reason, most Japanese products are sturdier which can lead to them lasting longer and offering more fulfillment of their original purpose. The reason why is simple – Japanese consumers do not accept second best. If you are looking to make a product, then in Japan it has to be made by someone who can be considered an expert, an artisan, in what they do: otherwise, it’s not worth it.
While that can make it hard for new companies to get on the ladder, in Japan this desire for fine workmanship ensures that service and product providers always need to live up to expectation.
Work is Life
Again, in most nations people get a job because they need money to pay the bills, spend time with family and friends, and have fun. Their job – their chosen profession – tends to be the one that offers the least pressure for the most money. For Japanese workers, having pride in the job is a necessity.
Work is life in Japan, and it shows in most typical Japanese products. Previously, we mentioned that holidays had to be created in Japan because workers don’t enjoy stopping their role. This only helps to exemplify why they are so successful.
Productivity’s biggest fear is the workforce knuckling itself to the ground. The lifestyle for a Japanese worker is to try and always live up to expectation and to work due to their passion and commitment.
A Historical Factor
From the amazing attention to detail in everything from Feudal shines to their detail and reverence in artwork and ornaments, the working culture in Japan is built upon generations of positive, work-minded attitude. The famous Katana blade was the work of many years of refinement and specialization – and that commitment shines through, even today.
Success for a Japanese worker is to follow the historical mean of being accurate, detailed and honest in everything that they do. While some might see this culture as uncomfortable to be a part of, the success that Japan has on most commercial markets can help showcase that such stressful work experiences can pay off.