AICI GL BAL

And the biggest challenge in launching her own
business
“Marketing. I knew it would be the biggest challenge
beforehand. I’d started to learn a lot of marketing
skills on my own — books and workshops, especially
regarding internet marketing — while still at JAL.
“Fortunately, through my sommelier training and
association with the wine lovers’ association, the
Commanderie de Bordeaux à Tokyo, I knew a lot
of doctors. I discovered that there was a real need
in China. When asked about the challenges of crosscultural
training, she didn’t find it daunting at all.
“From my experience, what a person hopes for and
expects regarding hospitality and etiquette is the same,
regardless of country or culture. When I instruct them
in the practices in Japanese hotels and restaurants,
everybody is truly impressed.”
As to where she starts in training staff to adapt to
globalization, Keiko says, “What I understand is that we
all need to learn what is going on outside of where we
“What I understand is that we all need to learn what
is going on outside of where we happen to live. This
is not just relevant to Chinese or Japanese people. It’s
important for all of us, globally, to understand and be
inspired by the various cultures in the world.”
to train hospital staff in hospitality, etiquette, and
communication to better serve their patients and
support the brand reputation of the hospital. There was
also the consideration of use of color within the hospital
setting to support the well-being of the patients and
staff. I focused on this niche in the beginning of my
business and the demand for my services grew.”
Keiko’s business also extends to conducting
customer service trainings and image consultation
happen to live. This is not just relevant to Chinese or
Japanese people. It’s important for all of us globally to
understand and be inspired by the various cultures in
the world.”
In addition to her volunteer roles as president of
the AICI Tokyo Chapter and VP Education for the
AICI Board of Directors, Keiko is dedicated to the
philanthropic duties she believes are incumbent on her
as an image professional.
The Association of of Image Consultants International | | 33