Finding a Job in Japan: Common Mistakes Foreigners Should Avoid

When foreigners are looking for work in Japan, they may often have trouble finding a job due to cultural differences.

In this article, we will introduce some common mistakes that foreigners should be aware of.

Understand the key points when looking for a job in Japan to get through your job search!

Common mistakes

 1.Finding a job is easy if your Japanese is good.

Being able to speak Japanese well is very important for job hunting.

However, that is not all that recruiters look at.

Hiring managers also look for the following skills:

• Appropriate use of honorific and polite language
• Adhere to business etiquette
• Compassionate toward those around them
• Ask questions when you don't understand something
• Cooperative and team-oriented etc

Of course, depending on the type of job and status of residence, skills and experience as well as the ability to communicate in Japanese are necessary.

2.The culture of home country is the same as the culture of Japan

Some foreigners seem to think that their home culture and Japanese culture are the same.

In reality, however, there are working styles and workplace cultures unique to Japan.

For example, hierarchical relationships and teamwork are valued.

Sometimes in interviews, people talk about experiences that don't seem to fit into Japanese culture.

To avoid this, you should familiarize yourself with the cultural differences before seeking employment.

In order to adapt to the culture of the workplace, not only in Japan but in any country, it is important to understand cultural differences.

3.Resumes and interviews are not important.

In addition to resumes, cover letters, and interviews, there are various hiring tests overseas, including demonstration exercises and practical tests.

In job hunting in Japan, application documents (resume and CV) and interviews are important.

To a hiring manager, your resume and CV allow them to learn about your experience and skills.
Therefore, make sure to create something that showcases your experience and skills.

The interview is considered an opportunity for the company and the applicant (you) to get to know each other better.
As the recruiter reviews your resume, he or she will ask questions to learn more about you.
They then determine if the applicant fits the company's values and culture.

As you can see, application documents and interviews are very important in Japan, so make sure you are well prepared.

📎Related article: How to Write a Resume and CV

4.You can get any job with a status of residence.

"If you have a status of residence, you can get any job in Japan."

This is one of the most common mistakes.

When working in Japan, there are restrictions on the work you can do depending on your status of residence.

If the job you want is one that you cannot do with your current status of residence, you will not be able to work unless you switch your status of residence.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the immigration consultation service.

Research and preparation are important

Learn about the job market in Japan.

Foreigners are active in various occupations.

Here are some positions where you can make use of your language skills and experience.

[Language skills and experience are utilized]

• Language Teacher
• Language Interpreter
• Translation
• International trade
• Customer service (hotel staff, food and beverage, etc.)
  and so on.

If you would like to work utilizing your language skills but are not yet at the level of interpreter/translator, you can still find work in overseas sales administration, sales, staff support, etc.

[Utilize your expertise and experience]

• IT engineer
• Machine engineering
• Medical Care
• Financing
• Consulting
• Marketing,
  and so on.

Use the various Job search sites

Many people in Japan use job sites to find new jobs. Therefore, there are many job sites.

There are sites that offer jobs for a variety of occupations, specialized job sites, and even regional job sites.

Consider what the company is looking for

Research carefully the business of the company you are applying for or going to interview with.

In addition, examine the company's values, known as the "corporate philosophy".

Each Japanese company values its own business objectives and corporate philosophy.
Most companies post this information on their websites.

From this information, consider what the company is looking for in an applicant.
It can be found in job postings and on websites. Check it out.

It is important to understand these factors and communicate how you are a good fit for the company in your resume and interview.

Be sure to research and prepare well so that your appeal is conveyed to the best of your ability.

Conclusion

Common mistakes when looking for a job in Japan:

• If your Japanese is good, your job search will go well.
• Culture of home country and Japanese culture are the same
• Resumes and interviews don't matter.
• With residency status, you can get any job you want.

Understanding these mistakes will help you get through your job search.

It is also important to prepare well in advance for job hunting in Japan.
Keep this in mind, along with the common mistakes introduced.

Don't forget to keep learning Japanese and to keep abreast of the latest job opportunities.
Good luck in building your career in Japan!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Do I need to speak Japanese to find a job in Japan?

When seeking employment in Japan, it is necessary to have some ability to communicate in Japanese.

In some industries, English-speaking candidates may have more opportunities to work. However, many companies are looking for people who can communicate in Japanese.

We recommend that you continue to learn Japanese in order to broaden your job options.

Q2. How should I write my resume?

In Japan, a form called a " resume" is commonly used for job-hunting activities.

A resume contains personal information, education, employment history, and other job-related information.

📎Related article: How to Write a Resume and CV

Q3. Should I talk about my experience in interviews in Japan?

No. The interview will include questions about things other than your experience.

[Example]

• Your Strengths and Weaknesses
• Why you are interested in the company
• Why do you want to work or continue to work in Japan?
• How many years have you studied Japanese, etc.

Be prepared to answer these questions and be confident in your interview.