How to Improve Your Japanese: Language Skills for Working in Japan

Understanding the Importance of Japanese in the Workplace

If you work in Japan, speaking Japanese is essential. In most workplaces, Japanese is needed for communicating with co-workers, understanding the workplace, and advancing your career. Whether you plan to move to Japan or are already working in a Japanese-speaking environment, it is very important to continually study Japanese.
This article will show you how to improve your Japanese for the workplace.

Importance of Language Skills for Working in Japan

Working in a foreign country is a great opportunity for growth through cross-cultural experiences. However, to succeed in a Japanese workplace, good Japanese language skills are crucial. Being fluent in Japanese helps you communicate with co-workers and customers and understand Japanese culture and rules.

Is English Acceptable?

In Japan, some international companies use English. However, most companies use Japanese. Therefore, Japanese is essential to adapt to the work environment. The better you speak Japanese, the better your chances of getting a job. Many companies value fluency in Japanese because it shows you are easy to work with and willing to learn about Japanese culture. Some companies also use Japanese proficiency in performance evaluations. Continuing to study Japanese can increase your chances of career advancement.

What Level of Japanese is Required?

The level of Japanese required depends on the company and the job.

Quick Reference for Japanese Skills by Job Fields:

• Clerical work (trading, interpreting, translating): N1 or native level
• Engineer: N2 level and up
• Sales and customer service: N3 level and up
• Manufacturing and light work: N3 level and up

In addition to language skills, relevant work experience and skills may be required.

Understanding Japanese Language and Culture

Characteristics of the Japanese Language

Japanese has unique characters: kanji, hiragana, and katakana. Learning these characters is essential for reading documents and creating emails. In Japanese, the way of speaking changes to a polite form based on age and relationship, known as "keigo." Keigo is used to address seniors, superiors, and customers. If you work in Japan, be sure to learn it.

Understanding the Culture

Learning about Japanese culture will help you understand communication in Japanese. Language and culture are deeply connected. Japanese manners and social rules affect communication. Understanding them helps you know what is considered "good behavior" and "bad behavior," making it easier to create appropriate workplace topics.

Understanding Business Manners and Workplace Culture

Familiarize yourself with Japanese business etiquette, including how to bow, exchange business cards, and behave during meetings. Hierarchical relationships are important in Japanese workplaces. Avoid interrupting or arguing with co-workers or superiors. Observing and imitating others' behavior is a quick way to learn business manners and workplace culture.

How to Improve Your Japanese Conversation Skills

To communicate with Japanese colleagues, it is essential to improve your conversational skills. Here are some tips:

Practice Conversations with Japanese People

Take online courses or local Japanese language classes and practice conversation with Japanese people. Focus on work-related topics to practice conversations useful at work.

Participate in a Language Exchange Program

Language exchange programs allow you to study with Japanese people learning your native language. Practice speaking both languages with a partner, encouraging regular practice and mutual support.

Enjoy Japanese Content

Watch Japanese TV shows or listen to podcasts. It helps you learn how to have conversations and creates conversation topics.

Participate in Cultural Activities, Homestays, and Other Events

Tea ceremony, calligraphy classes, and cooking classes are great ways to use Japanese while learning about the culture. Homestays allow you to experience daily life in Japan with a Japanese family. Both provide opportunities to practice Japanese and engage in cross-cultural exchange. Local governments often offer these activities; check your municipality's website for information.

Write a Diary in Japanese

Writing a diary is a great way to practice describing familiar and everyday things, even though it may seem unrelated to speaking.

How to Improve Your Japanese Reading and Writing Skills

Reading and writing are important for proficiency in Japanese, especially for reading manuals, writing emails, or preparing documents.

Learn Kanji and Increase Your Vocabulary

Kanji is one of the most challenging aspects of learning Japanese. Start with JLPT N5 to N3 kanji. Use vocabulary books or apps to memorize kanji like a game. Focus on vocabulary needed for daily life and work. Reading books and news will help you get used to reading.

Learn Grammar and Writing

If you need to write emails or documents for work, learn grammar. Ask seniors or supervisors to check your writing. Writing short sentences or diary entries daily is also good practice. Improving reading and writing takes time and effort, but it will pay off.

What is Important for Japanese Language Study

Don't Be Afraid of Making Mistakes

Making mistakes is part of learning. Don't be embarrassed; it's essential for improvement. Practice listening comprehension and participate in conversations to reduce mistakes. Celebrate small achievements, like ordering a meal in Japanese or having a short conversation.

Set Goals and Stay Motivated

Maintaining motivation is crucial for language learning. Set specific goals like passing a proficiency test, conversing with Japanese people, or reading Japanese novels. Find enjoyable ways to study, like watching anime or reading manga. Reward yourself when you achieve goals. Learning a language should be fun and rewarding.

Conclusion

Clear communication is important in any workplace. To ensure success and enjoyment while working in Japan, learning Japanese is crucial. The better your Japanese, the more opportunities you'll have. A solid foundation in Japanese language and an understanding of Japanese culture and business manners will lead to personal growth.
Improving your Japanese is a long journey requiring patience and practice. Actively seek opportunities to use Japanese and stay motivated. Building strong Japanese language skills will increase your job opportunities and help you understand Japanese culture. Good luck on your language learning journey!