A Starter Guide for Foreigners Who Want to Work in Japan
Table of Contents
1. A Starter Guide for Foreigners Who Want to Work in Japan
2. People who want to work in Japan should use specialized services
3. Let’s prepare the necessary qualifications for working in Japan
4. Summary
5. Similar Articles
6. Comment
A Starter Guide for Foreigners Who Want to Work in Japan
This article is for foreigners considering working in Japan, to guide them on where to start first. Getting specialized support is essential to successfully starting a job in Japan. Let’s work together to make your dream of working in Japan a reality by reading this article!
People who want to work in Japan should use specialized services
When searching for a job in Japan, there are many convenient services available for foreigners. The services introduced here can help you find a job and assist with various preparations until you start working in Japan. If you want to work in Japan, start by exploring the services introduced below.
・Hello Work: A free job search resource
Hello Work is a government-run service in Japan where even foreigners can search for jobs. There is no cost to use Hello Work. You can find job information and get advice at nearby Hello Work offices or online. Some locations offer support in English or other languages, so even those not confident in Japanese can use the service comfortably.
・ Job Search Websites
By using job search websites specifically for foreigners, you can easily find job listings online that are tailored for non-Japanese speakers. These sites often have a wealth of information from companies looking to hire foreigners and are available in various languages, including English, making them very convenient. Some sites also clearly explain the visa requirements and Japanese language proficiency levels needed to work.
When searching for a job on these websites, be sure to check the following:
- Experience in Hiring Foreigners: Check if the company has previously hired foreign employees.
- Visa: Confirm whether you have or need to obtain the necessary visa to work in that job field.
- Japanese Language Level: Ensure that your Japanese language skills meet the level required for the job.
・Comprehensive Support Services, Recruitment Agencies
Comprehensive support services, job placement, and recruitment agencies offer detailed assistance tailored to each individual’s preferences and situation. Staff members who are well-versed in the Japanese job market provide advice suited to your needs. Many of these services also offer support not only in finding a job but also after you start working.
For example, they offer the following types of support:
- Introducing jobs that match your skills and preferences
- Assisting with obtaining the visa needed to work
- Teaching you how to write a resume
- Helping with interview practice
- Assisting with studying Japanese
- Helping you find a home and set up a bank account
Using these services can make finding a job in Japan much easier. They can be especially helpful for those who are unsure about how to conduct a job search in Japan or who lack confidence in their Japanese language skills.
Let’s prepare the necessary qualifications for working in Japan
Here, we will explain what is necessary for working in Japan and what is good to have.
・Absolutely necessary for working: Visa (Residence Status)
The most important thing for working in Japan is having the correct visa. The work visa is the most commonly known type. There are various types of visas, and the one you need may change depending on what you plan to do in Japan.
The general process of starting work in Japan is as follows:
1) Find a job: Look for a job that matches your skills and qualifications.
2) Receive a job offer: Pass the document screening and interview, and secure a job offer from the company.
3) Obtain a visa: Apply for and obtain the necessary visa with the help of the company that hires you.
This process may seem difficult, but many companies and specialized services, such as job search websites, are available to help you.
・ JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test)
The JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) is a test that measures the Japanese language skills of non-native speakers. Many companies look at the results of this test when hiring foreigners. If you want to work in Japan, it is essential to take this test first.
For details on each level of the JLPT
and the study hours needed
before taking the exam,
check out this article!
・ Document Preparation and Interview Preparation
When searching for a job in Japan, it is very important to properly prepare your documents and get ready for interviews. For document preparation, it’s good to know in advance how to write a resume, a work history, and a statement of purpose (why you want to work for that company) in a way that makes you more likely to be hired. Japanese resumes follow a specific format, so it’s crucial to adhere to that format when writing them.
For interview preparation, it’s essential to learn Japanese interview manners, think about answers to commonly asked questions, and practice conveying your strengths. In Japanese interviews, how you bow and sit are also important points to keep in mind.
For example, when asked the common interview question, “Why do you want to work in Japan?” it’s better not to simply say, “Because I like Japan.” Instead, you should say something like, “I want to use my specialized knowledge and skills” or “I want to leverage my ability to speak multiple languages.”
・ Learn About Japanese Culture and Services
To work and live comfortably in Japan, it’s helpful to know the basics about Japanese culture and services. Not only should you be familiar with work etiquette, but it’s also beneficial to learn about daily life customs in Japan. For example, understanding how to ride trains and buses, how to sort garbage, and how to take a bath in Japan can be very useful.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to research beforehand about procedures at city offices, opening a bank account, and signing a mobile phone contract. These procedures are often necessary soon after arriving in Japan, so knowing what documents are required and where to go for these processes can provide peace of mind.
Comprehensive support services and job placement/recruitment agencies can offer detailed guidance on these matters and even assist with the actual procedures. If you need solid support, consider using these services.
Summary
To achieve your dream of working in Japan, it’s essential to obtain a visa, improve your Japanese language skills, and prepare for job hunting. However, if you make a solid plan and take it step by step, your dream will surely come true.
When searching for a job or going through various procedures, services tailored for foreigners can be incredibly helpful. These services can assist you in gathering the necessary information and smoothly handling difficult procedures, helping you start your new life in Japan successfully.
At Enuncia, we offer online Japanese lessons and job search support for foreigners who want to work in Japan. In addition to JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) preparation, we provide comprehensive one-stop support, including interview preparation and Japanese language learning for business and daily life. When preparing to work in Japan, feel free to consult with Enuncia.