Common Interview Questions in Japan

When job hunting in Japan, you will have an interview with the company's representative. During the interview, the interviewer will ask you various questions. Some questions are fairly standard, so it's a good idea to prepare your answers beforehand.
This article summarizes common interview questions. Use it as a reference to prepare for your interview.

Common Interview Questions

Motivation for Applying

This question asks why you want to work at the company. It's a must-ask question. Practice explaining your motivation in your own words before the interview.
If you're having trouble thinking of an answer, consider these perspectives:

• Can you use what you studied or experienced at school?
• Can you improve your skills?
• Is there a connection to your home country?

Work Experience or Educational Background

Work experience refers to your educational background and job history. When asked, "Tell us about your work experience," explain concisely.

• Educational Background: Mention your university, faculty, and major. Interviewers might ask why you chose that major or what your research topic was. Summarizing your studies beforehand can help you answer smoothly.
• Job History: Mention the company names, job roles, and years of experience. Highlight any achievements or results with specific examples. If you've worked at multiple companies, say, "I have worked at two companies," and specify the number.

Work history and educational background often relate to your residence status, so expect detailed questions.

Reasons for Wanting to Work in Japan

Many interviewers will ask why you want to work in Japan. Vague reasons like "I am interested in Japan" or "I want to learn Japanese technology" won't leave a good impression.
If you're interested in Japan, explain what specifically interests you. If you want to learn technology, specify the field and why you want to learn it.

For example, "Japan's company technology is top-notch globally. I want to utilize my experience and work in a cutting-edge field."
Speaking specifically helps convey your message to the interviewer.

Japanese Language Skills and Learning History

In Japan, how well you can speak and understand Japanese is important. Interviewers may ask how long and where you have studied Japanese.
Respond with details like, "I studied at a local Japanese language school for X years," or "I self-studied for X years before coming to Japan and continued while working." Mentioning any Japanese language qualifications you've passed is also beneficial.

Desired Length of Stay in Japan

Unless you obtain permanent residency, foreigners need to renew their residence status periodically to work in Japan. Companies prefer hiring individuals who will stay long-term. Therefore, interviewers often ask how long you plan to work in Japan.
If you aim to obtain permanent residency, mention it to indicate you might be a long-term hire. However, only say what you genuinely intend.

Job and Company Preferences

Interviewers might ask about your preferences, such as:

• Desired work location
• Expected annual salary
• Available start date

Companies with branches nationwide might ask where you want to work. If you're changing jobs, you might also be asked about your desired salary and start date. It's good to organize your thoughts on these topics before the interview.

Interview Tips

• Be Punctual: Arrive at the venue 5 minutes before the start time. If you're running late, always call to inform them.
• Dress Appropriately: If no dress code is specified, wear a suit. Even if casual attire is allowed, avoid wrinkled or dirty clothes and aim for a clean appearance.
• Speak Politely: Use polite language during the interview. If you're not confident in Japanese, it's okay to speak slowly. It's better to speak slowly and clearly than to rush and be unclear.
• Ask for Clarification: If you don't understand something the interviewer says, ask for clarification. It's better to ask than to answer without understanding.

If You're Nervous About Interviews

Foreigners having their first job interview in Japan might feel nervous. If you're a student, use your school's career support to practice interviews. Outside of school, Hello Work also offers interview practice. Hello Work is a nationwide job consultation service in Japan. In Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka, there are Foreign Employment Service Centers specifically for foreigners.

Conclusion

Interviews can make most people nervous. Practice common questions well so you can answer even if you're nervous.
Interviews are not only for companies to learn about you but also for you to learn about the company. While we've introduced common questions, feel free to ask any questions you have about the company during the interview.