Scott Smigler's BlogFounder of Exclusive Concepts and Conversions On Demand

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit the Showa School in Boston to speak to a very unique group of college students. The class was composed exclusively of female students from Japan for whom English is a second language. I was asked to talk about entrepreneurship and share my story with the class. It was a great experience indeed.

While I was prepared to receive very few questions from the students (based on anticipated cultural differences between American and Japanese classrooms), I was pleasantly surprised. The students were engaged, asked many dynamic questions, and expressed themselves quite well (no doubt to the credit of their instructors). Their English was better, in fact, than many people who claim English to be their first language!

The highlight of the event for me was when several students showed me how Japanese business men and women share business cards. Whereas the American way lacks formality (the room gasped when, during my demonstration, I received the business card and proceeded to file it away), the Japanese tradition is much more structured. The parties bow to each other, and present their business cards one at a time. The receiving party takes time to review the business card, as if confirming that it contains the all pertinent information.

It was very nice of Elizabeth to invite me, and I received a great note from Chrisann following the speech. Apparently I received “very enthusiastic” evaluations, which is great news! The class also sent me a very nice card. Here are some quotes from the students:

“To Scott: I was impressed with your great success story. I learned about American business from you. Thank you for giving us an amazing speech!!”

“I’m interested in business!! So it was interesting for me. I also want to establish my company if it is possible. Thank you so much.”

“Thank you for speaking a lot of information! It was so interesting and helped my future. Much appreciated.”

And my favorite…

“Thank you for telling your wonderful story. I respect you so much. I’ll be a career woman!! Thank you again.”

I love to see that entrepreneurial spirit!