The conceptual trap

I haven't read anything about the role of the interpreter in business settings as a guide to issues that go beyond manner and behaviour. The visiting business person carries with his luggage a set of standard, usually mastered and confident speeches and stances that often crystallise in PowerPoint presentations. When asked by clients before settings, and many clients usually ask questions, I always suggest to avoid as much as possible conceptual speeches, and rather veer toward many examples and narrative that illustrate what they want to sell or push forward. Narratives, stories, that is the trees rather than the forest, have a better chance to get through here in Japan. Avoid the conceptual trap.

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