Formal to Client
Workplace · Greeting
はじめまして。お目にかかれて光栄です。 — How do you do. It is an honor to meet you. (Workplace · Greeting, Formal to Client, JLPT N2)
You
はじめまして。お目にかかれて光栄です。
はじめまして。おめにかかれてこうえいです。
How do you do. It is an honor to meet you.
Romaji: Hajimemashite. O-me ni kakarete kōei desu. / Reply Romaji: Kochira koso, yoroshiku onegai itashimasu.
Reply
こちらこそ、よろしくお願いいたします。
こちらこそ、よろしくおねがいいたします。
Likewise, it's a pleasure.
Gesture & etiquette
Bow at 30-45 degrees for very senior contacts. Exchange business cards immediately after this greeting. Maintain a composed, respectful expression — avoid overly casual smiles which can read as unserious in high-protocol settings.
A step above the standard 'hajimemashite' — 'お目にかかる' is the humble form of '会う' (to meet), elevating the other party while humbling yourself. Use this with executives, VIP clients, or anyone of significantly higher status to signal deep respect.