Joris Brand: Nemawashi

When I came to Japan, I learned a lot of new things. 

The business culture differs considerably in some respects from what I was used to in Germany.
In particular, the way decisions are made here influences my daily work.

In Germany, we discuss things directly.
We address issues openly, sometimes even harshly. 

At some point, a decision is made—and then we move on.

In Japan, things work differently.
There is a concept called nemawashi.
Literally, it means:
Move around the roots.

Before a decision is made, you talk to everyone involved. Not in a big meeting — but beforehand. Individually. Personally.

You listen.
You understand the perspectives.
You take concerns seriously.

Only when the roots are exposed, you move the tree.

At first, I thought:
That takes too long.

Today, I see it as a great strength.

In Germany, we often make decisions more quickly.
But this sometimes leads to new discussions or conflicts later on.

In Japan, it's the other way around.
The path to a decision takes longer — but once it's made, everyone stands behind it.
Because everyone was involved in the decision-making process.

And that's exactly why decisions are then implemented consistently.

In my role at Körber in Tokyo, I work precisely between these two ways of thinking.

Our projects are complex.
Many people worldwide are involved:
customers, management, engineers, project planners.

I talk to individual participants, clarify misunderstandings, listen carefully, and try to understand what expectations and perspectives are on the table.

This is because in Japan, much of the actual coordination takes place before the meeting.

During the meeting itself, usually only the decision made is communicated among everyone.

Working in Japan has shown me how important patience, respect, and harmony are for sustainable decisions.

At the same time, we bring something equally valuable from Germany:
clear communication, structure, and strong implementation skills.

When both perspectives come together, something new emerges.
Not the German way of working.
Not the Japanese way of working.

But a collaboration that combines the best of both worlds.

The principle nemawashi stays with me to this day.

Those who try to simply cut down a tree cause damage.
Those who first understand where the roots lie and expose them can move it without destroying anything.

For me, this image describes very well how good collaboration works.

You listen.
You build trust.
You understand where the roots lie.

And only then do you move the tree.
Together.