[How did you come to know about the FAST OFFER International Program (formerly Study Go Work JAPAN Program? What about the application procedure?]:
When I was a 4th year university student, I started looking for all the information related to Job hunting. Just right in March there was a large online job-hunting event that took place for free at my college. Many companies from various fields were offering lectures, free consultation, and interviews. At that time, ASIA to JAPANwas also offering free online lecture, and giving tips for during an interview, which is also when FAST OFFER Int’l appealed to me. I had heard that at this event we get trained about the techniques of the interviews at the mendans by mentors free of charge. I think it is a legitimate and reliable company that can hold courses at the university. Even if you fail after participating, it does turn out to be very informative and a good experience anyways. For that, I started to want to try it and submitted my resume and application form on that day.
After submitting the documents, there was a small and easy Skype mendan by ASIA to JAPAN to check my Japanese proficiency, wishes, etc. In addition to it, after I had submitted documents stating my reason for wanting to work in Japan, a minute long self-introductory PR Video, etc. later, all I needed to do was wait till I got any notice about interviews.
[Interview preparation process]:
First of all, the people in-charge from ASIA to JAPAN provided us with the details of the interviewing company. Then, through online orientations with them, I could check all the important points regarding the interviews and introducing myself minutely. Kawai san and Akabane san were the people in-charge for me. They’re very kind and responsible which relieved me. I received many advice from them because of which, thankfully, I became confident enough for the interviews.
Also, there were mentors assigned for guiding us in the interview preparation. It was Suzuki san who guided me at that time. He is a very experienced person who listened to my mock interview answers and gave me very keen opinions and advice on how to improve. He clearly pointed out various questions that could be at the time of the interview and what kind of answers the companies would expect. We talked for about 2 hours. This time’s mentor mendan really helped me a lot. Not only did I get better prepared for the interview, but I also improved the way I expressed things, and became more aware of the purpose of the interview.
[Participating in interviews]:
Due to the impact of the spread of covid-19, it’s not possible to go to Japan for interviews. But due to that, we get an opportunity to take part in interviews even if it’s for one company. Previously, I heard that we could only interview if we were selected by three companies, but I think this is just a lucky break. The interview was done online, but when ASIA to JAPAN’s well-arranged day’s interviews were over, we got to know if we passed or failed and if we had the opportunity to proceed to the final interview. The first round of interview was of around 30 mins., where 5 interviewers were interviewing me. Meeting these 5 interviewers online from home through a laptop, and not in person, helped me be less nervous than I thought I would be. The interviewers were also very polite and seemed to be interested in the reason why I was learning Japanese. I think in the first interview, interviewers emphasize more on getting to know our personality and check whether are suitable for their company.
Fortunately, I passed the first round. There was a final interview two days after the first interview. Kawai san and Akabane san gave me some advice and a final note before the interview. Thanks to that, I wasn’t as nervous. Thank you so very much.
[Things I would like to tell my juniors about job hunting]:
If you’re willing to work in Japan, I strongly recommend you to take part in the ASIA to JAPAN’s events. This event not only provides interview guidance, by also makes it easy to contact Japanese companies. One of my friends wanted to work in Japan, but applied by herself due to some occupational problems, and the process was very hard. It felt like she was competing with the other Japanese people. Submitting the documents, and taking an exam is all very troublesome. With the help of an expert, I was able to successfully prepare for the interview. Participating in this event is really profitable and harmless. Even if you make a mistake, you will gain experience, reflect on your shortages, grow yourself, and prepare for your next opportunity.
If you think you’re lost, don’t be afraid to take the first step. Try to challenge the world while you are young.