How to Write an Effective Resume and CV to find a job in Japan

Introduction to Job Search in Japan

Finding a job in Japan can be an exciting and rewarding opportunity for individuals who want to live in Japan.

However, navigating the Japanese job market can be a unique challenge that requires a tailored approach, starting with an effective resume and CV. In this article, we will explore the essential elements of writing a compelling resume that stands out in Japan.

From understanding the Japanese resume format to highlighting relevant skills and experience, we will provide valuable insights and practical tips to help you make a strong impression on potential employers.

Whether you are a recent graduate or an experienced professional, mastering the art of resume writing in Japan is crucial for securing your dream job in this culturally rich and prosperous country.

🔗 Take a look at this as well: Dressing for Success in Your Interview.

Introduction to Job Search in Japan

The Job Market in Japan

First, let's learn about job hunting!
 
When looking for a permanent job in Japan, many companies may require you to apply and go through multiple interviews.
In popular industries such as technology and finance, the competition for hiring is more intense.
Therefore, it is important to effectively demonstrate your skills and qualifications in your application to advance to interviews.
 
If preparing application documents and going to several interviews is too hard for you, you can register with a staffing agency and wait for job offers.
🔎Search Jobs in Japan

Understanding the Japanese Resume Format

Overview of Japanese Resume (履歴書/Rirekisho)

The Japanese resume, known as "Rirekisho(履歴書)," differs significantly from the standard Western CV format. A Japanese resume generally includes personal information such as name, address, education employment history, as well as other relevant information.
 
A particular requirement for a resume is to include a photo of your face.
You should take your photo wearing a suit or jacket, not casual clothes.
You can take a photo with your smartphone, but a professional photo or a photo taken with a photo machine will be much nicer.

Characteristics of Japanese Resumes

A characteristic of Japanese resumes is that information is written in chronological order. In Japanese resumes, information is written in chronological order from the oldest to the newest.

Work history and qualifications/licenses should be written in chronological order.

Structure of the Education Background and Work Experience Sections of the Resume

Educational Background

When writing your educational background on your resume, you will need the following three pieces of information.

• Year and month of enrollment
• Name of school and department (for universities and vocational schools)
• Year and month of graduation

In addition to high school, vocational school, and university, write any other schools you attended.
For example, schools you studied abroad or schools you attended to obtain qualifications.
Be concise and focus only on what is necessary.

Employment History

Your employment history should be written in a clear and organized manner.

• The year and month you joined the company
• Company name and department
• The year and month you retire the company, and the reason why you quit.

If you left the company for personal reasons, write "Left for personal reasons(一身上の都合により退社)”.
 
Do not include details of your work or experience in your resume. Write them in your work history.

Showcase your Language Skills and Cross-Cultural Adaptability

Importance of Language Skills

Language skills are highly valued when foreigners seek employment in Japan.
Therefore, highlighting your ability to speak Japanese can increase your chances of finding a job.
If you have language-related qualifications, such as the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), be sure to include them in the skills section of your resume.
It will serve as proof of your language skills.
 
You should also mention how long you have been studying Japanese and whether you have used Japanese in your previous jobs.

Demonstrate your ability to adapt to different cultures

If you have lived or studied in Japan, you can demonstrate your understanding of and ability to adapt to Japanese culture.
Hiring managers will be looking to see if you can speak Japanese and adapt to the workplace culture in Japan.

How to Write an Eye-Catching Resume

Importance of a Resume

A resume is a concise summary of your skills and experience.
Creating a clear and eye-catching resume will help the recruiter confirm that your background is a good match for the position.

How to write a resume

There are two ways to organize your work history.

1. In chronological order from oldest to newest
   This is more common and easier to read because it is the same order as your resume.
2. In chronological order from newest to oldest
   This is better if the most recent job is the most attractive

First, include the company name, title, and date of hire.

Next, write a description of each job you have held.

If any of them are related to the job you are applying for, highlight them.
Try to quantify your accomplishments as much as possible so the hiring manager can see what you have experienced and how active you have been!

Tips for Writing a Resume

It is important to tailor your resume to the position you are applying for.
Read the company information and the job description carefully to find out what kind of person they are looking for and what the requirements are necessary.

Even if your work experience is not directly related to the position you are applying for, you can include skills and experience that are applicable to any industry, such as "quick to learn", "adaptable", "good at working in a team", or "good at problem solving".

Tips for Writing a Resume and CV in Japan

Keep the following in mind

• Write in a clear and legible format.
• List your education, work experience, and skills in order from oldest to youngest.
• Use a mug shot taken while wearing a suit or jacket.
• Qualifications and personal PR should include Japanese language qualifications and how long you have studied Japanese.
• Write your accomplishments in your work history in numerical form as much as possible.
• Check for typos and omissions before submitting your resume.

​​​​​​​What not to do

• Use the spoken language.
• Do not include a lot of personal information.
• Use a photo of yourself wearing casual clothes.
• Write false information
• Send a resume and CV in English only, unless otherwise specified.

Your resume and CV are the first step in making a good impression on the hiring manager.
Writing a well-written resume and CV is essential to finding a job in Japan.

By understanding how the job search works in Japan and preparing an application that will make a good impression on hiring managers, you can greatly increase your chances of success in your job search.

Remember to highlight your language skills and intercultural adaptability, as well as your experience!
Knowing these methods will help you approach your job search in Japan with confidence.

Do your best to open the door to a promising career!