Mastering Japanese in general settings is an accomplishment, but navigating conversations with Japanese colleagues presents a unique challenge. Let’s look into three indispensable phrases commonly used in professional settings:
1. OTSUKARESAMA DESU (お疲れ様です) – This phrase is a staple in Japanese workplaces. It is used to greet colleagues and express acknowledgment of their hard work. Unlike “ohayou gozaimasu” or “konnichiha,” “otsukare sama desu” can be used at any time of the day, making it versatile for morning, afternoon, or evening interactions. While “ohayou gozaimasu” is still appropriate upon arrival in the morning, it is recommended to avoid using “konnichiha” or “konbanha” in business settings. In my nine years of working a corporate job, I have never heard anyone at work say “konbanha,” and probably only once or twice “konnichiha.”
2. OSEWA NI NARIMASU （お世話になります）- This phrase serves as a respectful opening in emails, particularly when addressing clients, customers, or employees from other companies. I’ve observed that in some cases, colleagues from different divisions within the same company use it. It signifies gratitude for the recipient’s support or assistance. The bottom line is, it’s important to note that “osewani narimasu” should be reserved for external contacts and not used with your immediate colleagues, as it may create a sense of distance.
3. YOROSHIKU ONEGAI SHIMASU （宜しくお願いします)- Commonly heard during self-introductions, “yoroshiku onegai shimasu” has multiple meanings depending on the context. Primarily, it is used when requesting a favor or asking someone to do something. For instance, you might use it to politely ask a colleague, “Can you submit this report by tomorrow? Yoroshiku onegai shimasu.” Additionally, in business emails, it functions as a courteous closing, akin to “best regards” or “sincerely yours.”. In this case, the politest version “yoroshiku onegai itashimasu (宜しくお願いいたします)” is commonly used.
There are many other commonly used business phrases, such as “otsukare sama deshita” (past form of otsukaresama deshita), “osewa ni natte orimasu”, and “osewa ni narimashita” (present continuous and past forms of “osewa ni narimasu”, respectively), which I’ll cover in my future posts.
Incorporating these phrases into your workplace communication can enhance professionalism and foster positive relationships with colleagues and clients alike.
Thank you for reading, and feel free to reach out if you need further examples or explanations. Have a productive day!
TANPOPO 