My 2026 Focus: Strengthening U.S.-Japan collaboration

What happens when two business cultures, one rooted in harmony and consensus, the other driven by speed and individual accountability, come together? That’s the question I’ve been passionate about answering throughout my career, and it’s at the heart of my focus for 2026.

As Japanese companies expand their presence in the U.S., the opportunities are enormous … but so are the challenges. From communication gaps to differing expectations around work styles, bridging these worlds takes more than translation, it takes cultural insight, adaptability, and trust.

This year, my mission is clear: help Japanese organizations thrive in the U.S. by creating HR strategies that honor both cultures while driving global success.

Here’s what that looks like:

1. Building Cross-Cultural Communication That Works

Language is just the starting point. True collaboration means understanding how decisions are made, how feedback is given, and how trust is built. In 2026, I’m focused on creating frameworks that go beyond vocabulary, helping teams navigate cultural nuances so they can work together seamlessly.

2. Balancing Japanese Harmony with U.S. Speed

Japanese companies value consensus and harmony, while U.S. workplaces often prioritize quick decisions and individual accountability. My goal is to help organizations find the sweet spot, preserving cultural identity while embracing practices that resonate with American employees.

3. Designing Hybrid Work Models Across Cultures

Hybrid work is standard in the U.S., but Japanese firms often prefer in-person collaboration. This year, I’m working on flexible solutions that meet U.S. expectations for autonomy while maintaining the team cohesion Japanese companies value.

4. Expanding Diversity and Inclusion for Global Teams

D&I isn’t optional in the U.S. market, it’s essential. I’m helping Japanese organizations broaden their approach to inclusion, addressing ethnicity, age, neurodiversity, and more, while staying aligned with both U.S. regulations and Japanese cultural principles.

5. Introducing HR Tech Without Losing the Human Touch

Technology can streamline HR, but Japanese companies often approach automation cautiously. My focus is on integrating HR tech in ways that enhance efficiency without compromising the relationship-driven approach that defines Japanese business.

Why This Matters

Japanese companies operating in the U.S. face a delicate balancing act: staying true to their heritage while adapting to a fast-paced, diverse market. My mission for 2026 is to help them navigate this balance and build workplaces that thrive globally without losing their cultural soul.

Want to learn more about Japanese business practices and how to succeed in cross-cultural environments?

Join one of JCO’s programs and gain practical insights into Japan’s unique business culture, communication styles, and strategies for collaboration. Together, we can create more opportunities for global success.

If you want to learn more about bridging language and cultural gaps in Japanese business, why not join one of our sessions! Here’s the link to upcoming sessions (make sure to select your timezone)