Is it Difficult to Find a Job in Japan?
Table of Contents
1. Job Search Process and Strategy Information
2. Reasons Why Finding a Job in Japan is Difficult
3. Understand the differences and prepare accordingly
4. Learn about job hunting in Japan
5. Preparation for Job Hunting in Japan
6. Resources for Gathering Information on Job Hunting in Japan
7. Make sure to prepare thoroughly by utilizing support services
8. Similar Articles
9. Comment
[For Foreigners and International Students]
Job Search Process and Strategy Information
Since job hunting in Japan differs from that in other countries, it can be challenging for foreigners and international students. This article clearly explains the characteristics of job hunting in Japan, how to prepare, and useful information to help you succeed in securing a job in Japan.
Reasons Why Finding a Job in Japan is Difficult
Job hunting in Japan differs significantly from that in other countries. As a result, it can be difficult for foreigners to find a job in Japan.
・Is the employment rate for international students low?
According to statistics from 2022, the employment rate for Japanese university students is 97.1%, a high figure. However, the employment rate for foreign international students is 44.3%, a much lower number.
These figures indicate that it is challenging for foreigners to find a job in Japan.
References:
JASSO “2022 Survey on Career Paths of International Students“
Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) “Survey on the Employment Status of University Graduates in 2022“
・Job Hunting Unique to Japan
Job hunting in Japan has many aspects that differ from those in other countries.
- Hiring at the same time: Many companies conduct their recruitment activities during the same period.
- Valuing personality: Not only technical skills but also whether you can work well with others is evaluated.
- Long selection process: There are multiple interviews, and the process takes time.
- Written exams: There are exams that test general knowledge, and a certain level of Japanese language proficiency is also required.
Additionally, on the company side, there may be issues such as not being prepared to accept foreigners or having limited job opportunities for them.
・Issues with Job Seekers
There are also issues on the part of job seekers themselves that make it difficult for foreigners to find jobs.
- Preferring large companies: They often focus only on famous companies, which can limit their job options.
- Different approaches to negotiating salary and time off: While negotiating salary and time off may be common in other countries, it is not as common in Japan.
- Japanese language proficiency: Many companies require a relatively high level of Japanese language ability.
If you want to find a job in Japan, understand the differences and prepare accordingly
To find a job in Japan, it is important to thoroughly understand the differences between job hunting in Japan and your own country and to prepare accordingly to fit the Japanese way. Job hunting in Japan is usually done in a set period. If you miss this period, it becomes difficult to find a job, so thorough preparation is key to success.
Learn about job hunting in Japan
I will introduce some characteristics of job hunting in Japan. Please use this as a reference when job hunting in Japan.
・Hiring recent graduates together
Many companies in Japan hire recent graduates all at once. This is because there is a culture in Japan where people work for the same company for a long time. Rather than hiring people with skills from the beginning, the focus is on training new employees, which is why companies hire recent graduates together.
・Many companies recruit at the same time
In Japan, many companies conduct their recruitment activities during the same period. While this allows you to apply to many companies at once, if you miss this period, it can become difficult to find a job, so you need to be careful.
・Job Hunting Schedule
In Japan, the typical job hunting process for university students begins one year before their final year of study. The usual schedule is as follows:
March to May:
- Submit entry sheets
- Attend company briefings and joint company information sessions
- Take written exams
From June:
- Attend interviews (there are several rounds)
- Receive informal job offers (内々定) and formal job offers (内定)
An informal job offer (内々定) is when a company expresses its desire to hire you, but it is not yet a formal offer. The formal offer (内定) is the official hiring decision, which usually follows sometime after receiving the informal offer.
・Residence Status for Working in Japan
To work in Japan, you need a residence status. There are residence statuses that allow you to do any kind of work (e.g., permanent resident, spouse of a Japanese national), and others that only allow you to do specific types of work (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services).
Be aware that without the appropriate residence status, you may not be able to work.
Preparation for Job Hunting in Japan
Job hunting in Japan is conducted within a specific time frame, so it is important to prepare in advance. Start early with the following preparations to increase your chances of finding a job:
・Know yourself well
Clarify your strengths, weaknesses, values, and future goals. This will help you when writing documents or attending interviews.
・Research the industry and companies
Thoroughly research the field you want to work in and the companies you want to apply to. This will not only help you choose the right job but also assist you in writing your reasons for applying and answering questions during interviews.
・Make good use of connections
By talking to seniors who work at Japanese companies, you can gain valuable information. This is also known as OB/OG visits. It’s a good idea to ask about the actual workplace environment and culture.
・Prepare for the selection process
Your resume and entry sheet must be written correctly in Japanese. When preparing for written exams, you will need to study not only Japanese language skills but also the knowledge related to the exam. Also, make sure to prepare for the specific manners required in Japanese interviews and practice answers to commonly asked questions.
・Improve your Japanese skills
Taking the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) or the Business Japanese Test (BJT) can help you appeal to companies. For the JLPT, it is recommended to have at least an N2 level, which ensures you can handle business conversations without difficulty.
・Prepare clothing and necessary items
In Japanese job hunting, you will wear a suit. You will also need a bag, shoes, and ID photos, so make sure to prepare these in advance.
Resources for Gathering Information on Job Hunting in Japan
Here are some services that can help you find a job in Japan.
・Job Hunting Guide for International Students
The “Job Hunting Guide for International Students” created by the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) contains a wealth of information, from the basics of job hunting to residence status. Be sure to read it.
Reference: Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) “Job Hunting Guide for International Students“
・University Job Placement Support
Many universities offer services to help students find jobs. By using your university’s services, you can receive individual consultations and obtain information about job fairs and employment events.
・Public Services
Hello Work is a public service in Japan that helps people find jobs. In Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, and Fukuoka, there are also dedicated offices for foreigners.
・Job Posting Websites
Make active use of job posting websites, which contain a wealth of job information. In addition to websites specifically for foreigners, also check general job search websites aimed at Japanese students to find more opportunities.
・Company Information Sessions
Company-hosted information sessions and joint company information sessions, where many companies gather, are valuable opportunities to speak directly with company representatives. Participate actively to gather information and deepen your understanding.
・Internships
Internships in Japan do not necessarily lead to immediate employment, but they provide valuable opportunities to experience the Japanese workplace. Therefore, it’s important to participate actively in them as well.
Make sure to prepare thoroughly by utilizing support services
Job hunting in Japan is quite different from that in other countries. To succeed in finding a job in Japan, it is essential to understand the process and prepare thoroughly.
At Enuncia, we offer a wide range of one-stop services for foreigners and international students who want to work in Japan, including JLPT preparation, interview strategies, and improving Japanese language skills. If you are considering job hunting in Japan, feel free to consult with us!
