Menu
Expat.com

Successful job interview in Japan

Post new topic

Julie

Hi,

passing a job interview in Japan can be a stressful moment, especially you are not familiar with the cultural and professional codes of the country.

How to successfully pass a job interview in Japan ?

What happens during the interview ?

What are the do's and don'ts during a job interview in Japan : what to say or not, what to wear, how to behave ?

Thank you in advance for sharing your experience with us !

Julie

Glenski

Wear the most professional looking business attire possible.

How to pass an interview is impossible to teach. Like every other interview in the world, learn about the company beforehand so you know what you are getting into and can ask sensible questions. Japanese job interviews are usually conducted in a panel style, with the prospective employee facing 3 or more people at once.

For more, you are going to have to describe what sort of job you are interested in.

Armand

Hi Glenski!

Thanks for your advice ;)

Armand

yoseyo

hi,

it highly depends the kind of job you looking for. did you have already a pre-interview in your country and the final to be in Japan ? what kind of company ? international or 100% japanese company? are you already based in Japan ?
dress code and manners are mandatory, do not think at all the interview will be the same as in Europe or US. if you have no experience of japanese culture and behavior, that could be a challenge, this is all I can say.

Harmonie

:top:

JapaneseRuleOf7

I've successfully interviewed at several companies in Japan, in both English and Japanese, and the process does not strike me as that different from a Western-style interview. 

It's a given that you should dress well and act professional.  And of course have any documents that might be necessary for the interview, such as a resume, passport, and copies of (or even the originals) college degrees. 

Beyond that, I wouldn't psyche yourself out too much.  I wouldn't approach it thinking, Oh these people are Japanese and therefore I have to behave differently.  They're just people.  Use good manners and you should be fine.  But as I said, that's true anywhere.

Ken

Harmonie

Thanks for your contribution Ken!;)

Harmonie.

Varushen

Different countries have their own dressing codes for interviews. But I do believe that in Japan, dressing code play a much vital part in the communication process when going for an interview, compared to other countries. Obviously, it is not recommended to wear: unkempt clothes, jeans or athletic shoes. The attitude that you adopt and the way that you respond to questions give a glimpse of your personality.

sumittandon1987

last month i faced interview in japan it was great experience for me they did not ask any specific thing it was totally related with work profile. take care and best of luck for your interview. Hope for best.

Mouh1978

Japan as an advanced country has its strong personality and character. Accordingly, the interviewers take into account the nationality of the interviewee. Therefore, they may be tolerant towards certain acts provided that willingness to adapt to the nature of work is demonstrated...

yiopw2325

Each country has different working style and interview as well.It's experience life in Japan first, come to know their culture and then apply for a job. By then you would have probably gone through culture shock and learn necessary manner code before going to the interview!

Nassim1976

spontaneity, just relax :D

services

Just be yourself !

Go Go Go ...

Go and get for the Gold , I mean JOB !

We are the champion my friend !

Articles to help you in your expat project in Japan

  • Internships in Japan
    Internships in Japan

    Are you dreaming of doing an internship in the Land of the Rising Sun but don't know how to go about it? You ...

  • Finding a job in Sendai
    Finding a job in Sendai

    It is known as "the city of trees". Sendai, the capital of Miyagi Prefecture, is also the most populated ...

  • The Japanese labour market
    The Japanese labour market

    Japan's labor market has gradually recovered after the pandemic. In 2023, the wage increase rate surpassed ...

  • Working in Japan
    Working in Japan

    Thanks to its unique culture and developed economy, Japan has always been a dream destination for many of us. ...

  • Become a digital nomad in Japan
    Become a digital nomad in Japan

    If you want to travel around Asia as a digital nomad, Japan should be at the top because it differs from its ...

  • Starting a business in Japan
    Starting a business in Japan

    Are you considering relocating or starting a new business in Japan? You may wonder if setting up a business in ...

  • Working in Osaka
    Working in Osaka

    Do you dream of working in Japan? Why not opt for Osaka? The country's third-largest city is known for its ...

  • Working in Kyoto
    Working in Kyoto

    Do you dream of working in Kyoto? The ancient capital of Japan is indeed a fascinating place that attracts ...

All of Japan's guide articles