Mastering “Go-kento kudasai” in Japanese Business
In the fast-paced world of international business, effective communication is paramount. When dealing with Japanese colleagues or partners, understanding subtle yet important phrases can significantly enhance your professional interactions. One such phrase, particularly relevant in decision-making processes, is “Go-kento kudasai” (ご検討ください).
What does “Go-kento kudasai” mean?
Literally translating to “please consider,” Go-kento kudasai is a polite and professional way to ask someone to review, evaluate, or think about a proposal, idea, or suggestion. It’s often used when presenting options, seeking feedback, or encouraging a deeper look into a matter before a final decision is made. It implies a request for thoughtful consideration rather than an immediate acceptance or rejection.
Pro-Tip for Business Etiquette
Using Go-kento kudasai demonstrates respect for the other party’s opinion and intelligence. It shows that you value their input and are not trying to rush them into a decision. This phrase is a hallmark of collaborative business culture in Japan, where consensus-building is often prioritized.
When to Use “Go-kento kudasai”
You’ll frequently encounter or use this phrase in various business contexts:
- When submitting a proposal or business plan.
- When offering multiple solutions to a problem.
- When asking a client to review a contract or quote.
- When seeking input on a new strategy or project.
- When asking a superior or colleague to think about a potential course of action.
Example Dialogues
Sender A: “Here is the quarterly sales report and our proposed marketing strategy for the next quarter. Please review it.
(四半期の売上報告書と来四半期のマーケティング戦略案をお送りします。ご検討ください。)
(Shihanki no uriage hōkokusho to rai shihanki no māketingu senryaku-an o o-okuri shimasu. Go-kento kudasai.)Sender B: Understood. I will review it carefully and provide my feedback.
(承知いたしました。慎重に検討し、フィードバックを提供します。)
(Shōchi itashimashita. Shinchō ni kentō shi, fīdobakku o teikyō shimasu.)
Manager: We have two potential vendors for the new software. Please look at the details of each and let us know your recommendation.
(新しいソフトウェアのベンダー候補が2社あります。それぞれの詳細をご検討ください。)
(Atarashii sofutowea no bendā kōho ga nisha arimasu. Sorezore no shōsai o go-kento kudasai.)Team Member: Yes, I will compare them and get back to you.
(はい、比較してご報告します。)
(Hai, hikaku shite go-hōkoku shimasu.)
By incorporating Go-kento kudasai into your business vocabulary, you can foster a more collaborative and respectful communication environment, leading to better outcomes and stronger professional relationships.
For more insights into Japanese business communication, explore our articles on “Horenso” (Reporting, Contacting, Consulting), a fundamental communication rule in Japanese companies, and mastering “O-moushiwake gozaimasen” (Apologies).
