You have completed an important presentation to several Japanese executives regarding a proposed partnership between your American company and their Japanese firm.Your presentation is greeted by a long silence with the Japanese executives continuing to look at you.This silence probably means that the Japanese executives:
A)didn't understand what you were saying.
B)disagree with your proposal and can't think of a polite way of telling you about their rejection.
C)weren't listening to your presentation.
D)are so overjoyed by the proposal that they are speechless.
E)are contemplating what you have just said and are showing respect for your presentation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In Japanese culture, silence is often used as a sign of respect and contemplation. The executives may be taking time to process the information and think about the proposal before responding. It is important to be patient and not interpret the silence as disinterest or disagreement. It is also customary for the highest-ranking executive to speak first, so it may take some time before a response is given.

You Have Completed an Important Presentation to Several Japanese Executives