Mastering Japanese Workplace Greetings: Phrases to Connect with Your Team

2026年8月9日

In Japan, workplace greetings are more than just a courtesy – they’re a key to building strong relationships with your colleagues and supervisors. As someone who’s lived and worked in Japan, I’ve seen firsthand how a simple phrase can make all the difference in breaking the ice and making a good impression.

A Personal Story

My colleague, Tuan from Hanoi, looked completely lost when my boss said (otsukaresama desu) to him on his first day. I realized then that many of the phrases we use every day in the Japanese workplace are not typically taught in textbooks. These phrases are crucial to building relationships and succeeding in your job.

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The Importance of Greetings

Not knowing these phrases can cost you socially and professionally. For example, if you fail to greet your boss properly in the morning, it may be seen as impolite or disrespectful. On the other hand, using the correct phrases can help you build trust and rapport with your colleagues and supervisors.

5 Essential Phrases to Get You Started

Here are some essential phrases to help you navigate common workplace interactions:

(ohayou gozaimasu, good morning) – A simple yet polite way to greet your colleagues and boss in the morning. Example: When Priya from India arrived at the office, she greeted her boss with (ohayou gozaimasu), which helped break the ice and start the day on a positive note.
(konbanwa, good evening) – A common way to greet your colleagues when you leave the office in the evening. Example: When Ramon from the Philippines left the office, he said (konbanwa) to his colleagues, which showed that he valued their time and appreciated their hard work.
(otsukaresama desu, thank you for your hard work) – A phrase that shows appreciation for your coworkers’ and boss’s hard work. Example: When my boss said (otsukaresama desu) to Tuan, he was acknowledging Tuan’s efforts and showing appreciation for his dedication.
(sumimasen, excuse me) – A polite way to interrupt someone or ask for help. Example: When I needed to ask my coworker a question, I said (sumimasen) to get their attention and show respect.
(arigatou gozaimasu, thank you) – A phrase that expresses gratitude to your coworkers and boss for their help and support. Example: When Priya received help from her colleague, she said (arigatou gozaimasu) to show her appreciation.

Practicing Your Phrases

Practice using these phrases by role-playing with a language exchange partner or using them in everyday conversations with your coworkers and boss. You can also listen to podcasts or watch videos that feature native Japanese speakers using these phrases in different contexts.

Bonus: Surprising Phrases That Delight Japanese People

Using the following phrases can surprise and delight Japanese people:

(yoku irasshaimashita, welcome) – A phrase that welcomes guests and colleagues. Example: When Priya welcomed her boss with (yoku irasshaimashita), he was impressed by her politeness and hospitality.
(o-genki desu ka, how are you?) – A phrase that shows interest in someone’s well-being. Example: When Ramon asked his coworker (o-genki desu ka), they were touched by his concern and responded with a smile.
(kanpai, cheers) – A phrase that’s commonly used when drinking with colleagues or friends. Example: When Tuan said (kanpai) during a company dinner, his coworkers were delighted by his enthusiasm and teamwork spirit.

Every week, I share 10 new phrases with paid subscribers – phrases that I’ve gathered from real Japanese workplaces. If you want to learn Japanese faster and sound like you belong, that’s where to be.

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