Japanese Work Environment: Cultural Challenges Faced by Foreign Workers

The work environment in Japan has a different culture than in other countries.

When foreigners work in Japan, they sometimes do not know what to do because the Japanese culture is different from their own.

This article explains the differences in the way foreigners often have trouble working in Japan and how to overcome them.

How to work in Japan

Here are some Japanese ways of working. Some of the ways of working may be unfamiliar to you.

Be on time.

In the Japanese workplace, there is a culture of punctuality.

Some cultures in the world have no problem with being a little late for an appointment.
Therefore, you may be surprised at how strictly everyone is punctual in the japanese workplace.

In Japan, there is a belief that not being punctual is taking up other people's time.

Therefore, when you go to work or to a meeting, be on time for the start of the meeting. It is good to get into the habit of getting ready early.

Do exactly the job you're given.

In Japan, it is normal to do exactly the tasks assigned to you.

Therefore, depending on the company and the job, supervisors and senior staff often give detailed instructions about the work.

For those who have often had to think and work on their own, it can be difficult to know how much freedom to take.

In such cases, it is important to consult regularly with the person who gave you the task to make sure that you are doing the job correctly.

For example, when preparing materials. Don't make everything at once. Make an outline and then check with your supervisor to make sure the contents are correct.

Value cooperation and teamwork.

In the Japanese workplace, there is a culture that values cooperation and teamwork.

We emphasize cooperation with people who have different opinions and ideas in order to achieve the same goal.

Those accustomed to a culture of working individually may have difficulty adjusting to a japanese culture that values cooperation and teamwork.

If this is the case, there are two things to keep in mind.

1. Value the opinions of those you work with.
   
2. Be useful to the team by doing what you do best.

Be aware of 1 and 2 and try to contribute to the team.

Differences in communication methods

It is said that Japanese communicate indirectly, as if conveying opinions in a roundabout way.
It is the same with work.

People who are used to expressing their opinions clearly may not understand what you are trying to say if you are indirect.

In such cases, ask questions until you clearly understand the content.
You should also pay attention to their attitude and facial expressions.

There are many other ways to communicate in the Japanese workplace.
For more information, see the following article.

📎 Related article: Communication Strategies for Foreigners in the Japanese Workplace

Differences in corporate organization

The organization of a Japanese company is basically a pyramid of hierarchical levels.

Generally, the structure is as follows: at the top are the president, directors, and other people involved in management, followed by department heads who are responsible for their respective departments, and then section managers, section chiefs, and general employees, in that order.

In this type of organization, be courteous to your superiors and seniors and follow their instructions.

If you are accustomed to a culture where people assert their opinions regardless of their position, you may find it difficult to express your opinions in this type of japanese organization.

When you want to express your opinion within your department or team
Express your opinion while respecting the opinions of your supervisor or senior staff member.
It is better if you can convey your opinion based on data and facts.

When you want to convey your opinion to the entire company
First, give your opinion to your own senior or supervisor. It is common practice to have your supervisor tell the supervisor above him/her.

It is not a good idea to share your opinion with a supervisor further up the chain without consulting your own supervisor.

Differences in working style

Concept of work-life balance

There are countries where you can take lots of paid vacations, work remotely, and have flexible work arrangements.

On the other hand, more and more companies in Japan are adopting flexible work systems, but they are not yet common.

Some people may not be able to take a month or so long vacation as they used to, and this may cause stress.

If you want to take a longer vacation, talk to your co-workers or supervisor. If you avoid busy seasons, you may be able to make it happen!

It is also a good idea to choose a company with a large number of holidays when looking for work.

Concept of Overtime Work

In many countries, it is considered better to have little or no overtime work, as the balance between work and private life is important.

Therefore, when you see your colleagues working overtime in Japan, you may not understand why they are working overtime.

Not so good, but Japan is known for its long working hours.

But now it is different. Both the Japanese government and companies are working to reduce overtime work.

To not work overtime:
Remember to manage your time well and prioritize.
When the workload becomes too much, or when an urgent job becomes available, it is important to ask for help from others if necessary.
Remember that you can take your own measures in this way.

When colleagues are working overtime:
Ask "Is there anything I can do to help?".

Finally

It may take some time for foreigners to get used to the Japanese way of working.

However, it is an opportunity for you to grow through a different way of working.

If you know the Japanese way of working that we have introduced, you may find it easier to work for a Japanese company.

When working abroad, it is important to understand the culture of the country.
It is the same in all countries, not just in Japan.

Remember to consult with those around you when you have questions.