Using coaching techniques at work Part 1: Level 3 Listening / Kūki wo yomu (空気を読む)

Using coaching techniques at work with your Japanese colleagues and clients can significantly enhance communication and collaboration.

As a newly graduated CTI-Trained Coach, I'm of course full of the experience and learning I've had the past 6 months while I was in the program. Some of the learning was new, but some I realized I've been practicing for years already.

One of the coaching techniques I've found to be incredibly effective, especially with Japanese colleagues, is Level 3 Listening. Trust is crucial in Japanese culture, and by employing Level 3 Listening (Active Listening with empathy), I've been able to create a safer space for open dialogue, making my colleagues and clients feel more comfortable.

Level 3 listening involves not just hearing the words being spoken but also understanding the underlying emotions and intentions. In a Japanese context, where indirect communication is often the norm, this technique becomes even more vital. By paying close attention to non-verbal cues, such as body language and tone, you can better grasp the nuances of what your colleagues are trying to convey. The reason why this works so well, is that Level 3 Listening is already part of Japanese culture.

There's actually an expression in Japanese that describes the same thing as Level 3 Listening: Kūki wo yomu (空気を読む) translates to "reading the air" or "sensing the atmosphere." It refers to the ability to understand unspoken social cues, emotions, and the overall context of a situation. Hence, if you're "dense" to unspoken social clues you may be called K.Y. (空気読めない, "Kūki Yomenai"), something we'd all rather avoid!

There's also a profound impact on communication. Reflecting back what you've heard not only shows that you're actively engaged but also helps clarify any misunderstandings. Phrases like, “So what I’m hearing is…” can reinforce that you value their input and are committed to understanding their perspective.

Want to know more? At Japan Consulting Office, we specialize in equipping professionals to thrive in cross-cultural environments. Whether you’re looking for group training or one-on-one sessions, we’ve got you covered!

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