Learn more about Japanese Workplace Culture According to Expats at the end of this story or jump there through this link.
COUNTRY |
China |
EDUCATION |
Bachelor in Japanese Language and Literature, Shanghai International Studies University |
COMPANY |
World’s leading manufacturers of agricultural machinery |
SUMMARY |
Initially considering working in Shanghai, she realized the need for a more independent lifestyle during a year-long exchange program in Japan. Captivated by Japan’s clean environment and inclusive culture, she decided to pursue a career there. Through the support of FAST OFFER International, she navigated the job search process, securing interviews and ultimately an offer from a major manufacturing company in Tokyo. The story highlights the differences between Chinese and Japanese interview styles, emphasizing the importance of personality and adaptability. |
How My Dream of Being Part of Japanese Workplace Culture Began
When I first entered university, I considered working in Shanghai after graduation. The convenience of living in Shanghai made it seem like a good choice. However, I gradually realized that such an arrangement might make me overly reliant on my family and keep me from the independent lifestyle I yearned for.
This idea was confirmed during my year-long exchange program in Japan in my junior year. It was my first time living alone in a foreign country. Although I was initially apprehensive, I was quickly captivated by Japan’s clean and orderly environment and its open and inclusive learning atmosphere. More importantly, this experience made me realize that the Japanese way of life suited my personality very well: life here emphasizes boundaries, and people maintain a respectful distance in interactions, yet they are warm and polite. In contrast, living at home, though comfortable, lacked challenges and novelty.
Perhaps most importantly, I observed the unique aspects of Japanese workplace culture. During a short internship at a Japanese company in Shanghai, I experienced firsthand the meticulous attitude towards work and the simple and efficient interpersonal relationships. Japanese workplace culture values punctuality and dedication, which I found both challenging and rewarding. This atmosphere solidified my goal of working in Japan after graduation to lead a truly independent life.
Starting My Job Search in Japan with ASIA to JAPAN‘s FAST OFFER International
From the beginning of my graduate studies, I started preparing for job hunting. Initially, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to choose Japan, but as I delved deeper into my exchange experience, I gradually made up my mind: to go to Japan, pursue a more independent life, and explore diverse career opportunities. Through a domestic video platform, I learned about the job search services of FAST OFFER International and immediately registered for a job search account. Its advantages were clear:
- Transparent Information: FAST OFFER International holds a monthly interview event. If selected by three companies, you can go to Japan for in-person interviews. If you receive 1-2 interview invitations, you can participate in online interviews. Before each interview event, the staff would inform me whether I was selected, and which companies selected me, and provide company information and a list of questions, alleviating the anxiety caused by information gaps and making the process more reassuring.
- High Communication Efficiency and Quick Response: Although communication was through email, the staff usually responded within three working days. You could schedule a meeting time through online meeting software, which was very convenient. These detailed and thoughtful supports helped me maintain a stable mindset while preparing for interviews. Eventually, I secured online interview opportunities with two Japanese companies through the platform.
Interviews Are Not Exams, Learn to Adapt
The interview process is a challenge to self-analysis and expression skills. After receiving the list of questions, I began drafting my interview script. I combined online experience posts and company backgrounds for self-analysis. During the actual interview, interviewers tended to delve into my answers. They not only asked “What did you do” but also further examined my motivations, i.e., “Why did you do it.” This made me realize that besides thorough self-analysis, one must adapt during the interview to truly showcase their thought process. Both companies I interviewed with had two rounds of interviews: the first round was usually with HR, and the second round was with HR and higher-level managers or the president.
Securing My Desired Offer and Starting a New Life
In the end, I received an offer from a major manufacturing company in Tokyo. This company’s global business and the position offered allowed me to fully utilize my multilingual skills in Japanese, Korean, and English, collaborating with colleagues from different countries. I am full of anticipation for my future work and deeply grateful for all the efforts and support during my job search journey.
The Chinese and Japanese Workplace Cultures’ Key Differences
Previously, I had also looked for internships in China and participated in some autumn recruitment. Therefore, during the interview process, I noticed some differences in interview styles between companies in the two countries.
- Serious vs. Gentle: Japanese interviews are more like a conversation, with no sense of hierarchy between the interviewer and the student, creating a relaxed atmosphere. In contrast, Chinese interviews are more rigid, and interviewers tend to be stricter.
- Skills vs. Personality: Chinese companies focus on the interviewee’s academic background, certificates, and whether they already have specific professional skills. Japanese companies, on the other hand, have training programs, so they do not have high expectations for fresh graduates’ abilities but place more emphasis on whether the candidate’s personality fits the company’s culture.
Interview Insights and Tips for Learning Japanese
Japanese company interviews are quite different from those in China. Here are some insights I gained during the interview process:
- Show Potential and Attitude: Japanese companies care less about what you can do at the moment and more about whether your personality is suitable and if you have the ability to learn new things and adapt quickly to new environments.
- Prepare Real and Specific Examples: Interviewers have limited time, but specific experiences can quickly help them understand your working style and strengths.
- Maintain a Positive and Enthusiastic Attitude: Energetic expressions, clear speech, and a passionate attitude will make interviewers feel your enthusiasm.
For those learning Japanese outside of Japan, I believe the key to improving speaking skills is to create a “Japanese environment”:
- Continuous Input: Engage with Japanese programs, songs, or radio daily. Even if you don’t speak, you can become familiar with the language’s expressions.
- Shadowing: Choose suitable audio materials, mimic the pronunciation and intonation, and continuously correct your pronunciation and sense of language.
Long-term Planning and Preparation for Life in Japan and Adapting to the Japanese Workplace Culture
Currently, I am preparing for my upcoming work in Japan as a Chinese national. From visa applications to driver’s license conversion, every step fills me with anticipation for the life ahead. Understanding Japanese workplace culture was crucial in adapting to my new job environment in Tokyo. The meticulousness and orderliness of Japanese society make me feel very reassured, and the multilingual and multicultural exchange platform provided by the company gives me great confidence in my future work.
FAST OFFER CAREER GUIDE: Japanese Workplace Culture According to Expats in Japan
Japanese Workplace Culture has a reputation all over the world. Japanese workplaces are well-known for excellence, strictness, punctuality, and teamwork. It’s also notable though, how Japan’s workplace culture is also rapidly changing to adapt to modern sustainability goals as they take in more global talents to meet their local skilled labor shortage. We took a look at the stories of FAST OFFER International’s talents who are working in Japan today to help us paint you a picture of Japanese workplace culture in light of all these societal changes.
Disclaimer: Not every item in the list below will apply to all Japanese companies. Every company, Japanese or not, will always have its own identity and unique practices. These are some of the common threads we’ve come across.
Japanese Workplace Culture According to FAST OFFER Success Stories of Expats in Japan
1. Fighting Overtime
Many Japanese companies are actively working to combat overwork. This talent’s company implemented measures like “No Overtime Day” and provide ample paid holidays, including “Golden Week.” Women receive additional support, such as paid leave for reproductive issues and extensive maternity leave.
2. Foreigner-Friendly Environment
Japanese companies are becoming more global and accommodating to foreigners. While Japanese communication can be indirect, locals are patient and willing to help foreigners understand the nuances.
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3. Accommodation for Religious Practices
Some Japanese companies provide accommodations for religious practices, such as prayer rooms for Muslim employees. It’s important to inquire about these facilities during the job application process.
4. Efficiency and Systems
Japanese workplaces are characterized by fast-paced, group-oriented work supported by rigorous systems. While initially seeming restrictive, these systems help prevent mistakes and ensure smooth operations. One example widely used by engineering companies is the 5S system and the;
5. Hourenso (報連相)
Hourenso, an acronym for reporting, communicating, and consulting, is a crucial practice in Japanese workplaces. It ensures transparency and minimizes mistakes by keeping superiors informed at all stages of a task.
6. Emphasis on Training
Training is a significant aspect of Japanese work culture. Before you enter the workplace, they will train you on what it means to be a good Japanese Salaryman. New employees often undergo extensive training, including job coaching and hands-on experience in different departments. This is particularly true if you start as a fresh grad.
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7. Stricter Rules and Boundaries
Japanese workplaces have stricter rules compared to some other countries. For example, using phones during work hours is generally not allowed, and there are clearer boundaries between workmates.
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8. Respect and Equality
Japanese workplace culture emphasizes respect and equality. Seniority is not flaunted, and employees interact on an equal footing. For one of our talents, this translated to regular meetings with mentors and HR to ensure that employees’ concerns are addressed.
9. Cleaning Culture
Japan is a notably clean country and this extends to their offices. A unique aspect of Japanese work culture is still seen in some companies’ practice of cleaning the office. Employees, regardless of their position, participate in cleaning tasks, fostering a sense of responsibility and teamwork.
10. Nomikai (Drinking Tradition)
After-work drinking sessions, known as nomikai, are common in Japan. While they can be enjoyable, they may also pose challenges to work-life balance.
Are you ready to take part in Japanese Workplace Culture? You can find out more about finding a job in Japan from our career guides.