Japanes e negotiators, regardless of whether they are in a superior or subordinate or stronger or weaker position in relation to their counterpart, use a number of additional means of influence beyond the provision of information. Central among these is cultivation of positive, trusting, and long-term working relationships. ‘‘The Japanese are not accustomed to the Western system of communicating and negotiating, which lets both sides present conflicting interests and ideas before reaching a conclusion. They prefer to reach a solution as amicably as possible, and there is a tendency to compromise with others by laying