All You Need To

Know About
Job Hunting in
Japan!
Job Hunting
Guide for
International
Students

2026
Independent Administrative Institution
Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO)
Job Hunting Guide for International Students 2026 is available as PDF
data. If you wish to download one, please access the listed URL.

Japanese（外国人留学生のための就活ガイド）
URL:https://www.jasso.go.jp/ryugaku/after_study_j/job/guide.html

English（Job Hunting Guide for International Students）

URL:https://www.jasso.go.jp/en/ryugaku/after_study_j/job/guide.html
Contents

Before Starting to Job Hunt in Japan 2

Job Hunting in Japan 4

Employment and Training System in Japan 6
Employment Situation of International Students 7
What Japanese Companies Expect 8
COLUMN ❶ What you need to know to work in Japan 9
Job Hunting Schedule 10
Recruitment Selection Process and Application Guidelines 12

Preparing for Job Hunting Activities 14

Self-analysis and Evaluation 15

COLUMN ❷ Collecting Information on Job Hunting 19
Researching Industries 20
Researching Companies 24
Researching Job Types 26
COLUMN ❸ Make Full Use of Employment Support 34
Companies and Websites for International
Students
Visiting Alumni 35
Internships 36
Job Hunting Manners ❶ Manners to Make a Good Impression ① 38
Job Hunting Manners ❷ Manners to Make a Good Impression ② 40
COLUMN ❹ Cost of Job Hunting 42

From Application to Document Screening 43

Applications 44
Company Briefing Sessions 45
Application Documents 47

From Screening Tests and Job 53

Offers to Joining a Company
Written Tests 54
Interviews 58
COLUMN ❺ Tips for the Second Half of Your Job 64
Hunting Process
Job Offers to Joining a Company 65
Before Starting Work 66
The Voice of Former International Students 68

Changing Your Status of Residence 69

Application for Change of Status of Residence 70

Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services 71
Designated Activities 74
Job Hunting Activities after Graduating 75
Specified Skilled Worker 76
COLUMN ❻ Points-Based Preferential Immigration Treatment 77
for Highly-Skilled Foreign Professionals

Job Hunting Reports 78

Before Starting to Job
Many aspects of job hunting in Japan are unfamiliar for international students, hence they are often at
a disadvantage compared to Japanese students.
Before starting to job hunt, make sure you understand the following two points.

POINT POINT
1 2

Understand Japan’s Acquire Japanese language

unique job hunting activity and schedule skills for business settings

First, start by understanding the What companies look for in international

uniqueness of job hunting in Japan and students is their "Japanese language skills"
how the process is different from your and "communication skills". Japanese
own country. Although the schedule varies language skills are essential in order to
by each company, job hunting activities explain yourself properly at interviews.
in Japan usually start with applications,
company briefing sessions, written tests,
■ Skills/traits which employers consider
and other activities in March the year to be important when hiring
before graduation—while still in school. international students
Manufacturing
Preparation such as internships, industry Skill/Trait
industry（%）
Nonmanufacturing
industry（%）

research, and self-analysis should start Japanese language skills 64.8 75.7
Communication skills 55.2 65.4
even earlier. It makes a difference to Vitality 41.9 33.6
understand the job hunting process, how Enthusiasm 28.6 29.0
Specialization 26.7 22.4
job hunting works early on, and to start English language skills 19.0 11.2
necessary preparations. Imagination 14.3 14.0
Leadership 9.5 7.5
University attended 4.8 3.7
University academic record 1.9 1.9
From Survey on Career and Retention for International Students
(Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, 2012)

As you can see from the graph on the next page, international students who experienced job hunting
were troubled in areas such as "not understanding the system of Japanese job hunting" and "not
knowing how to research industries and companies". They also felt a lack of language ability.
Please use this guidebook to get a head start on your job hunting in Japan, and work on gaining
Japanese language skills.

2
Hunt in Japan
Difficulties experienced during job hunting What international students felt they were
lacking while job hunting in Japan
Didn’t know about the job 33.8
hunting system in Japan Lack of linguistic skills 54.4
Didn’t know how to research
industries or companies 29.0 Lack of understanding about
Japanese corporate culture 28.3
I was unclear about my work
duties after entering the 22.7
company There was no acquaintance 18.8
I didn’t know what kind of
people the company was 24.8 Knew of hardly any companies
looking for that could utilize them as an 33.8
employee
I didn’t know how to write 19.8 Didn’t know basic rules and
documents in Japanese processes associated with job 25.2
hunting
I found Japanese aptitude and 32.2 Lack of understanding about
proficiency tests difficult the skills Japanese companies 34.7
expect employees to have
I found interviews conducted 25.5
in Japanese difficult Other 2.5
There are few employment 38.5
offers for international students Unknown 1.1
The level of Japanese required 12.2
by the company was too high 0 20 40 60（%）

No difficulty in particular 7.0 From Research on Employment Support for International

Students by Japanese Universities(Ministry of Health, Labour,
Other 3.0 and Welfare, 2014)

0 10 20 30 40（%）
From Survey on Career and Retention for International
Students(Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, 2015)

Recent Job Hunting Situation

Some companies combine face-to-face job hunting with online job hunting using the
Web. You need to understand how to use IT equipment and be well prepared for job
hunting.

Online company
Online internship Online interview
briefing sessions

3
Job Hunting in Japan
Job hunting activities in Japan are very unique and very different from job hunting in your own
country. In order to succeed in job hunting in Japan, it is important to know about the job hunting
circumstances in Japan.

Features of Job Hunting in Japan

■ Simultaneous job hunting

Many companies in Japan commence their recruitment activities with the same schedule. The job hunting
schedule for the employment of graduates for 2026 starts with accepting applications forms on March 1st,
2025. The selection will start on June 1st.

■ Simultaneous Recruitment of New Graduates

The employment of people who recently graduated from university, graduate school, vocational schools
and other schools, and who are seeking employment for the first time is called “Simultaneous recruitment
of new graduates”. Job hunting activities in Japan involve this unique style of recruiting new graduates, and
the recruitment method adopted by companies involves the simultaneous recruitment of students who are
scheduled to graduate every year. Companies commence their recruitment activities while the students are
still studying at school. In "recruitment of past graduates" , the number of companies that you can apply to
and the number of applicants may decrease greatly.

■ Joining the Company in April ■ The key points in the selection process (choose five)
In Japan, st udents generally star t their Communication Skills 82.4
studies in university and vocational schools Individuality 64.3

in April and graduate in March. Because Spirit of Challenge 48.9

Cooperativeness 47.0
of this, students in Japan who graduate in
Integrity 43.4
March join a company and begin working
Stress Tolerance 35.2
from April 1st.
Logical Thinking 23.6
Sense of Responsibility 22.1
■ Potentiality-Based Recruitment Problem-Solving Skills 19.8

T he potent ialit y-based recr u it ment Leadership 17.1

Flexibility 15.0
means hi r ing person nel based on thei r
Potential 13.5
p ot e nt ial for g row t h af t e r joi n i ng t he
Expertise 12.0
company, even if they can't play an active
Creativity 11.1
role immediately with work-ready skills. Reliability 10.9
T he refore, compa n ie s t h i n k h ig h ly of Common Sense 6.5
communication skills, individuality, spirit Language Skills 6.2

of challenge, and cooperativeness that they Course History / Academic Grade 4.4
Overseas Study Experience 0.5
have. In "recruitment of new graduates", the
Other 3.9
"potentiality-based recruitment" is adopted
0 20 40 60 80 100（%）
more often than "mid-career recruitment"
that requires work-ready skills. From FY2018 Survey Into Graduate Employment
（The Japan Business Federation）

4
 Japanese Employment Culture

■ Lifetime Employment System

The lifetime employment system refers to the style in which a person is employed by the same company from the
time they are still new graduates until retirement (60 years old, although this differs between companies). Although
this is not clearly stated within employment contracts under normal circumstances, it is customarily expected in
Japan that new recruits and companies tacitly agree to this. That's why it is important for new graduates to join the
company immediately after graduation, and "hiring new graduates" has become the mainstream in Japan.

■ Seniority-Based System
This refers to a system in which employees are assigned positions and salary increases in accordance with
the number of years they have worked for the company and their age. The system is based on the prerequisite
that employees will accumulate work skills and know-how the longer they work for the company and the
older they get, and that these skills and know-how will be reflected back on the company performance in
the long run. However, recently there have been many companies switching to a performance-based system
after a certain period of time.

Changes in the Japanese Employment System

The employment culture described above is a common practice in Japan, but there is a movement to review
the traditional employment system.
Some companies have changed from the conventional "Membership-Based Employment" approach, in
which work is assigned to employees, to "Job-Based Employment" in which people are assigned to work.

■ Membership-Based Employment
A style of employment that does not limit duties, place of work, or working hours. The main feature of
this style of employment is that people are evaluated in accordance with their ability to perform all duties
as generalists. This is a style of employment typical in Japan in which companies offer unlimited work
in exchange for stable employment and treatment. Companies employ large numbers of new graduates
simultaneously, provide OJT (On-the-Job Training) and internal training courses to ensure that they have
the knowledge and experience necessary to perform their jobs. The main feature of this style of employment
is that the jobs and workplaces they are assigned are not predetermined, so they can be relocated to any
position at the discretion of the company. Owing to this, there is a possibility that recruits will not be
assigned to the job and workplace that they desire. This style of employment means that the jobs offered in
employee recruitment information are titled as “general work”.

■ Job-Based Employment
A style of employment that limits duties and place of work, etc. The main feature of this style of employment is
that the job description is clearly defined and that capabilities are evaluated by skill levels as specialists. The
continuation of employment and treatment is determined according to job continuity and job performance,
and it is the most common style of employment in Western countries. It enables companies to secure capable
workers with high levels of expertise. However, because workers are on a contract basis covering a specific
area of work, contracts may be terminated without the workers being reassigned to other work in the event
that the duties they perform are no longer required due to changes in the company’s financial status or
policy. Hence, workers in job-based employment are at higher risk of losing their jobs than workers who are
working in membership-based employment.

5
Employment and Training
System in Japan
Employment type refers to the type of employment contract between a company and an employee. The
length of contract, the benefits, and the way they work differ in each contract. For permanent employment,
it is sometimes divided into types such as General Position, Clerical Position and Technical Position. While
the employment type describes the way of working involved in an employment contract with a company, the
recruitment type refers to the framework for the type of job position at the time of hiring and future career path.

Employment Type Recruitment Type

T hey a re expected to t a ke on
It is a type of direct employment a w i d e r a n g e of d u t i e s a n d
Permanent contract with a company for an
indef inite period of time, and
General ga i n ex pe r ie nce i n a va r ie t y
Employees i n h e r e n t l y s t a ble w i t h go o d Position of de pa r t ments. Ca reer pat hs
commonly lead to future managers
benefits and promotion system. and executives of the company.
It is an employment type in which This position focus on routine clerical
the employee signs a contract with duties and suppor t tasks. They
Contract a company for a f ixed period of Clerical require no special qualifications or
Employees time, and whether employment will Position skills but perform a wide range of
be continued or not is determined duties. Promotion to management
upon the contract renewal. positions tends to be rare.

In this type of employment, you Those in this position can make

Outsourced or make a contract with a temporary the most of specialized skills and
Temporary agency a nd work f or a client Technical knowledge they have gained. They
Employees company. The temporary agency Position work primarily in science fields,
is your employer, and the contract such as engineers and researchers.
period is usually limited.

Training is normally provided in a variety of formats, such as OJT (On-the-Job Training),

classroom lectures, group work, and e-learning. Effective training is a critical component of
a company because it promotes employee growth and contributes to improved business
performance.
■ OJT(On-the-Job Training)
It is a form of practical education training conducted through actual work in the workplace. New
employees acquire skills and knowledge through daily work experience in the department to
which they are assigned, under the instructions of senior employees and supervisors.
■ Group training
All new employees participate in this program to learn the company's basic philosophy and
business manners. Most companies introduce group training and it usually takes place over a
period of a few days to a few weeks immediately after the employees join the company.
■ Off-JT(Off-the-Job Training)
This is a specialized training conducted outside the workplace to learn industry knowledge and
specific skills. For example, employees systematically learn practical knowledge such as laws
and regulations and how to operate systems necessary for their work.
■ Mentorship
This is a system in which senior employees provide individual guidance and support to new
employees to help them become accustomed to the company. This creates an environment in
which new employees can receive emotional support as well as business support.

6
Employment Situation of
International Students
Number of international students employed in Japan
The number of international students employed ■ Employment for International Students in Japan
in Japan has been steadily increasing for about Number of students employed in Japan

10 years. In 2020, the number decreased due to Number of int'l students graduated (excl. who attending higher educ. in Japan)
Domestic employment rate of int'l students graduated (excl. who attending higher educ. in Japan)
Covid-19 and other factors, but in recent years, the
number is once again increasing. In 2022, 26,795
out of 50,253 international students who graduated
(excluding those going on to higher education in
Japan) were employed in Japan, and the domestic
employment rate was 53.3%, the highest in the past
10 years. (According to Japan Student Services
Organization, JASSO)
Source: Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), "Results
of the Career Status Progress Survey for international students
in Japan, 2022".
Heisei26 Heisei27 Heisei28 Heisei29 Heisei30 Reiwa1 Reiwa2 Reiwa3 Reiwa4
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022

Sizes of companies where international students find employment

Since international students prefer to work for ■ Percentages of international students engaged
a large company, many of them aim to enter a in employment by company size
famous company. according to the data in the 1 to 49 employees
graph on the right, approximately 80% find 6.5% 50 to 99 employees
employment at small-to-mid-sized companies 100 to 299 employees
which have less than 1,000 employees and about 9.3%
300 to 999 employees
the half of them find employment at small-to- 1,000 to 1,999 employees
5.1%
midsized companies with less than 100 employees. 2,000 or more employees
In addition to serving as subcontractors for Unknown
43.4%
large companies, many Japanese small-to-mid- 10.3%
sized companies are outstanding, holding world-
leading technologies and the highest market
13.9%
shares. Job seekers can expand their employment
opportunities by researching what companies do, 11.7%
and not focusing only on the size of the company.

From The Employment of International Students by Japanese

Companies in 2022 (Immigration Services Agency of Japan)

Industries and job types at places of employment Note: Participants

were allowed to choose
Many international students ■ Industries and job types at places of employment multiple answers.
work in wholesale and Industry type Composition ratio (%) Industry type Composition ratio (%) job Types Composition ratio (%)

retail industries, and many Wholesale and retail 19.3 Metal product 2.7 Translation/Interpretation 16.1
of them work as translators Academic research, professional and technical services 8.4 Groceries 2.0 Information processing and information and communications 7.7
Information and communications 7.8 Electrical machinery and apparatus 1.9 Planning (Marketing Research) 7.4
and interpretors.. Lodging 6.5 Transportation machinery and equipment 1.4 Management/Administrative work 7.0
Employment placement and labor outsourcing 6.4 Plastic product 1.3 Overseas transactions 6.4
Medical and welfare 5.7 Machinery and equipment for production 1.0 Corporate sales 4.7
Restaurant service 5.7 Textile product 0.5 Planning Affairs (Public Relations and Advertising) 4.4
Education 4.1 Other 4.4 Certified care worker 3.7
Construction 3.1 Manufacturing subt 15.2 Accounting work 3.7
Real estate and goods leasing 2.9 Manufacturing control 3.7
Transportation and Correspondence Delivery Business 1.5 Technology development 3.7
Finance and insurance 0.7 Research studies 2.3
Other 12.5 CAD Operation 1.9
Non-manufacturing subt 84.4 Other 27.1
From The Employment of International Students by Japanese
Companies in 2022 (Immigration Services Agency of Japan)

7
 What Japanese Companies Expect
Reasons for hiring international students
To be able to state, "the international student was hired as a result of conducting hiring activities regardless of the
applicant's nationality" is the first reason why Japanese companies hire international students." T
​ his is in accordance
with the hiring policy, "secure excellent human resources regardless of nationality." The second reason is the concept
of diversity. The companies aim to stimulate their organizations by deliberately securing employees with varied
backgrounds. The third reason is to hire people who can serve as a bridge between the company and overseas, and
develop or expand their business overseas.

■ Reasons for hiring international students

To cultivate and expand overseas business in the home countries of 23.1

international students

To cultivate and expand overseas business in general 44.7

To enhance business by acquiring human resources with specialized 28.1

skills
To stimulate the workplace by increasing diversity within the 55.8
company
They were simply hired as a result of passing the selection process 55.8
without regard to nationality

Because we could not find enough Japanese employees 4.0

Other 1.0

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 （%）

From Survey on Career and Retention for International Students

(Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, 2015)

Level of Japanese language skills required for international students

One of the skills that Japanese companies focus on most in hiring international students is the applicant's Japanese
Proficiency Level. Lots of companies require job-seekers to submit application forms and attend interviews in the
hiring process. Since companies consider interviews to be very important, "the ability to understand explanations
(listening skills)" and "the ability to communicate about oneself (speaking skills)" is necessary. More than 90% of
Japanese companies expect international students without any English skills to be at Japanese Proficiency Level Test
N1 or above at the time of hiring. Although few in number, there are some companies that will hire English speaking
international students with Japanese Proficiency at N2 level.

No level requirement
0.6
■ Required Japanese skill level J3/N2 J4/N3
8.2 2.3
Take the JLPT or
J1+ J2/N1
With English skills 20.5
J1
38.6 29.8 the BJT Test and
J3/N2 J4/N3
get a good score.
1.8 1.8

J1+ J1 J2/N1
Without English skills 25.9 40.6 30.0

0 20 40 60 80 100 （%）

J1+ Able to sufficiently communicate in Japanese in any business setting

J1 Able to adequately communicate in Japanese in a wide range of business settings
J2/N1 Able to adequately communicate in Japanese in a limited amount of business settings
J3/N2 Able to communicate to some extent in Japanese in a limited amount of business settings
J4/N3 Able to communicate at a minimal level in Japanese in a limited amount of business settings
BJT Business Japanese Proficiency Test (J1+ to J5)

From Survey on Career and Retention for International Students

（Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, 2015)
8
COLUMN ❶

What you need to know to work in Japan

One of the important points when it comes to working in a Japanese company is to have a great attitude
towards teamwork and cooperation, to be thorough on reporting, communicating and consulting (in Japan,
we call this HŌRENSŌ), and to understand basic business manners such as punctuality. It is also important
to respect hierarchical relationships and courtesy, and to adapt to the rules and culture of the organization.
In addition, a long­term perspective on career development and attitude toward self improvement is required.
If you have a problem or are unsure about something, you can consult with and rely on your colleagues and
supervisors around you. There should always be someone looking out for you.

Punctuality
Being on time is highly valued in Japanese companies. Late arrivals are considered rude to
others, especially being late for meetings or the start of work is strictly prohibited. You should
allow plenty of time for usual arrival time at work and when visiting other companies.

Teamwork and Cooperation

In Japan, where it is considered important to produce results as an organization, teamwork and
cooperation are highly valued, and everyone is expected to work together to achieve goals, not
only individually. This is why how the workload is shared in Japan is so ambiguous. In addition,
in the Japanese workplace culture, keeping harmony of the entire team is prioritized, so smooth
communication and mutual help are believed to enhance the efficiency and quality of work. This
leads to a hiring culture that emphasizes communication skill and cooperation rather than pre­
employment skills during the interview process.

Report, Communicate and Consult (HŌRENSŌ)

The following are basic communication techniques emphasized in Japanese business culture.
By being thorough, transparency in tasks is maintained and problems can be addressed
quickly when they occur. It is important not to make decisions alone, but to consult with your
supervisor or colleagues and report the results. Also, when someone points out your mistake,
you should apologize honestly.

Report Communicate Consult

Report work progress Share necessary Seek input and
and results to your information about advice from
supervisor and the job and let them super visors and
others. know the situation. colleagues when
problems or
questions arise

Corporate Culture in Japan

In Japan, long­term employment is often assumed and it is expected that the employees will
continue to grow and develop by being reassigned different positions. For this reason, companies
are enhancing OJT (On-the-Job Training) and other training programs for new employees to build
up their skills and aim to develop them into future core members of the organization. In addition,
having attitude toward self improvement will enable each employee to respond flexibly to the
changing business environment and expand their career options. As individuals continue to grow
on their own, their contribution to the company will increase, leading to be trusted.

9
Job Hunting Schedule
Hypothetical Job Hunting Schedule for FY 2026

June, July August September October November December January February

2024 2025

[Job Hunting Schedule]

Participating internships
(P36)

What does "employment in FY 2026" mean?

"Nendo," or the fiscal year, is the annual period established to identify specific goals. Most
Japanese companies define April 1 to March 31 of the following year as the fiscal year. With
regards to this, since hiring activities may run across fiscal years, companies will generally
write hiring schedule in the fiscal year the hired persons start working. For example, college
juniors may start job hunting in the summer of 2024, but actually will not be able to enter
companies until 2026. Therefore, many companies will write them as being "employment in
FY 2026". The information on job hunting websites will also write as "2026." The title of this
guidebook is also titled "2026" as the information about job hunting is hired for positions that
start in 2026.

● JLPT ● JLPT
(Japanese-Language Proficiency Test) (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test)
[University Schedule]
● Periodic test ● Summer vacation ● Periodic test ● Spring vacation

[Getting prepared]
● Register on recruiting websites Self-analysis and evaluation(P15)
Researching Industries (P20),Researching Companies (P24),Researching Job Types(P26), Visiting Alumni

Application documents preparation(P47),

■ Employment for September Graduates

On the simultaneous recruitment calendar, September graduates will take their
employment tests as new graduates at the same time as students graduating six months
later.
With many companies, graduating in September and getting a job offer still means that
the actual start of employment is in April the following year. With some companies, the
start is in October. Make sure to confirm this in advance.

10
 The key is to start early and gather information!
International students tend to start job hunting later than Japanese students. Begin job
hunting activities early. This is the key to successfully finding employment in Japan.
First, let's look at what you need to do and when you need to do it.

March April May June July August September October November December January,
2026
● Start of PR activities ● Start of screening activities ● Start of provision of official job offers

Joint company briefing sessions/ Students that have not

Company briefing sessions
been hired by October
(P45)
1st and companies that
Applications have not been able to
(P44) hire students by that
Submission of your application form
time continue with job
(P47) hunting/hiring activities.

Aptitude tests
(P55)

Written tests and interviews

(P54) (P58)

Provisional job offer Change of status of residence

(official job offers are from October)
（P65） (P69)
● JLPT ● JLPT
(Japanese-Language Proficiency Test) (J a p a n e s e - L a n g u a g e
Proficiency Test)
● Periodic test ● Summer vacation ● Graduate school entrance examination

(P35)

Written Test tips(P54)

Interview tips(P58)

■ Year-Round Recruitment
Most companies recruit new graduates in large number simultaneously (scheduled to
graduate in March), who will start employment in April. However, an increasing number of
companies, mostly foreign and IT companies, are offering year-round recruitment, where
they hire throughout the year. The trend is expected to continue.

11
Recruitment Selection Process
and Application Guidelines
The recruitment selection process in Japan begins with the submission of an entry sheet (application
for m) and resume, and proceeds through stages such as written tests, group discussions, and
interviews. Particularly in the recruitment of new graduates, character evaluation is emphasized, and
cooperation and adaptability are often tested. In the interview process, the applicant's motivation/
reason for applying and self-promotion are important, and compatibility with the company's culture
and values is also evaluated. The recruitment process tend to be drawn out.
※ This process is an example and the actual selection process varies depending on companies. Please check the
application guidelines for details.

Pre-application is the first step to express your interest to a company. This

Pre-applications is done prior to formal entry and allows you to receive information about
(P44) the company briefing sessions and selection process. You can pre-apply
through job search websites and companies' websites.

At t e nd i ng a c ompa ny br ief i ng se ssion is a valu able op p or t u n it y t o

Company briefing sessions u nderst a nd job descr ipt ions a nd a compa ny's cult u re. I n add it ion to
（P45 〜 ) job descriptions and application requirements, you can lear n about the
company's charm.

Application is the process of for mally applying for employ ment. The
recruitment selection process begins when an applicant submits a resume
Applications/ or entr y sheet (ES) written based on the employment information. The
resume・Entry sheet resume includes the applicant's basic information, and the entry sheet (ES)
（P44/47 〜 ) includes the applicant's self-promotion and motivation/reason for applying,
etc. Based on these documents, the company will screen the documents to
determine which candidates will proceed to interviews.

Written tests They are conducted to evaluate basic academic skills and abilities, and
to confirm aptitude for the job through a general common sense test and
(P54 〜 ) aptitude test.

Interviews T he i nter views enable the company to di rectly check the applicant's
personality and communication skills. In many cases, the interviews will
(P58 〜 ) be conducted multiple times.

Provisional job offers notify the applicant of the company's intention to

Provisional job offers
make a job offer before a formal offer is made, while official job offers
・official job offers notify the applicant that the company has made a formal decision to hire
(P65 〜 ) the applicant and has promised the applicant's employment.

Applications for change Depending on the job description, you may need to change the status of
of status of residence residence from “Study abroad” to an appropriate status of residence (such
(P70 〜 ) as “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services”).

A f t e r re ceiv i ng a n of f icial job of fe r, t he appl ica nt mu st subm it t he

Join the company necessa r y docu ments, cha nge t hei r st at us of residence, a nd u ndergo
training before finally joining the company.

12
Application guidelines play a very important role in selecting a company. Application guidelines
includes the company's job description, application requirements, salary, benefits, etc. Through the
application guidelines, you can get a concrete picture of how you would work at the company. It is
important to check the application guidelines well in advance, as the contents vary depending on
companies.

Examples of information found in application guidelines

Item Contents
It explains about the employment type, such as permanent
employment, contract employment, or outsourced/temporar y
Employment type employment. Working st yles and other factor s var y depending on
the employment type.

Type of occupation It describes the positions available, such as general position, as well
as job descriptions after joining the company. Check carefully to see
・Job descriptions if they fit your wishes.

The location of the head office may differ from the location of your
Location・Workplace assignment.

This is a period during which the company evaluates the individual's

work at titude, abilit y, and skills to dete rmine whethe r to formally
Probation period hire the applicant. During the probation period, conditions of
employment may differ, so check carefully.

In addition to sta r ting s ala r y a nd ove r time pay, some compa nie s
Salary offer fixed over time pay.

These are wages paid separately from the monthly salar y, such as
Allowances commuting and housing allowances.

Your salar y can be increased. In Japan, it is common to have regular

Salary increase salar y increases that are generally based on years of employment
and position.

Bonus is an extra amount of money paid separately from the monthly

Bonus salar y. Payment criteria are set by the company.

In addition to the number of annual days off and holidays set by the
Days off ・Holidays company, annual paid leave, childcare leave, etc. are also listed.

S e r v i c e s s u c h a s h e a l t h a n d l i f e s t y l e s e r v i c e s p r ov i d e d b y t h e
Employee benefits c o mp a ny to e mp l oye e s a n d th e i r fa mili e s, a p a r t f ro m s a l a r y a n d
bonus. There are social insurance and retirement benefits etc.

13
Preparing for
Job Hunting Activities
Self-analysis and Evaluation
Job hunting starts with self-analysis and evaluation 15

Researching Industries
Examine companies that belong to the industry you are interested in 20

Researching Companies
Research a company which belongs to the industry you desire 24

Researching Job Types

Learning job types and required skills 26

Visiting Alumni
The best opportunities to hear what working people really think 35

Internships
Internships are valuable opportunities to experience working 36

14
Self-analysis and Evaluation
Job hunting starts with self-analysis and evaluation
Self-analysis and evaluation involve asking yourself questions regarding your strong and weak
points, preferences, expertise, skills, interests, dreams for the future, values, and outlook on life,

Self-analysis and
then organizing your thoughts. In other words, self-analysis and evaluation enable you to learn about

Evaluation
yourself in a deeper sense than ever before by gazing back over your past, reflecting on your current
self, and visualizing your ideal future self. It is important to not choose a company just because it is a
famous or a big company, but to look for a job according to your own criteria.

Objectives of self-analysis and evaluation

Examining Industries
❶ To identify your own criteria for the type of job that you want to do, and the type of
job you are suited to
❷ To find out what you should appeal to on an application form or at an interview

Examining Company
How to analyze and evaluate yourself

Start your self-analysis by looking back on yourself about "Past (so far)" and "Future (from now
on)".

What does my past say Write down specific episodes from your childhood to the present, such
as "things that were fun", "what you work hard on", "things that were
about me?
challenging", and "things that had an impact on you", etc. Looking back

Examining Job Types

→ P16 on why you think so can be a clue to your suitability for future jobs.

What sort of person do I

Consider your goals and aspirations, write down what /where you want
want to be?
to be in 3, 5, and 10 years.
→ P16・17

What does Japan mean A naly ze your self as an international student. "Why did you decide to
study in Japan?" "Why do you want to work in Japan?". Organize your
to me?
thoughts from the past and the future so that you can answe r in the
→ P17 interview.
Visiting Alumni

Another way to "know yourself" is to ask people around you, such as friends, how
you are perceived and your strengths and weaknesses. By doing so, you will be
able to know things about yourself that you didn't realize.
Internships

15
 What does my past say about me? — Create your own personal history —

Find out more about your past by writing down your own history. By gazing back on your past and
writing down what happened in the past, you can learn what you cherish and what you value.
■ How to create your personal history

❶ Write down your experiences and events, what you were good at and what you were not good
at, and so on, during each educational level: elementary school, junior high school, high school,
university, and graduate school.
❷W rite down what you thought, what you did, and what you learned from the experience.

Your personal history - Examples

Experiences, events, what I was good at, Thoughts, actions, and lessons learned
School (Age)
what I was bad at, etc. from experiences and events.

Elementary ・Played basketball with my friends in the ・Learned the joy in achieving something
(6-12) park almost every day as a team

Junior high ・Got a computer for my birthday ・Became interested in games and started
(12-15) learning game programming by myself

Senior high ・S tarted reading Japanese manga ・Became interested in Japan and wanted
(15-18) to learn more about Japan

University ・Went to Japan to study ・Found my positive attitude towards

(18-22) things I was interested in

Graduate school ・Learned about Japanese economy ・Decided to become a bridge between
(22-) system Japan and my home country

At the interview, you should talk not only about events that have had a big impact
on your life, but it's important to describe what you thought, how you responded,
and what you learned from the experience in your own words.
It is important to look back on the past and understand your behavioral traits and values.

What sort of person do I want to be? — Create your own future timeline —

Create your future timeline to help you clarify your goals and aspirations for the future.
Your "Future timeline" should be written chronologically about how you want to succeed in the
company and how you plan your life after graduation.
■ How to make your future timeline

❶ Create a chart, divide your future timeline into specific milestones: 3, 5, 10, 20, and 30 years from now.
❷ List your life plan and work goals at each milestone, regardless of whether they are achievable or
not.
❸ Write down the reasons underlying your choice of goals and how you can achieve those goals.

16
Future timeline - Example
How can I achieve
Time Life plan Reasons Work goals
them?

・E xpand my network ・Want to build ・Learn the basics of ・Act positively and
After good relationships business in Japan attend seminars,
3 years etc

Self-analysis and
・G et married ・Want to build a ・Participate in a new ・Work enthusiastically on

Evaluation
After foundation for life project daily tasks and become
5 years in Japan the person nominated
for new projects.

・Buy a house in the ・Want to live a life ・Become the leader ・Gain experiences and
After suburbs where I am in touch of a project to develop responsiveness
10 years with nature promote a new skills to become a trusted

Examining Industries
business key member of the team.

After
20 years

Figure out your life plan for the next 20 or 30 years.

After
30 years

Examining Company
By setting goals, you can make it clear what needs to be done. Also, you can
answer smoothly when you are asked the reason for applying during interview.

Examining Job Types

What does Japan mean to me? — Why did I choose to come here as an international student? —

In interviews, employers will often ask international students questions such as "Why did you choose
to study in Japan?", "Why do you want to get a job in Japan/work for a Japanese company?".

In the past …… What got me interested in Japan?

In the future …… How and why you would like to engage with Japan in the future.
Visiting Alumni

Organize your thoughts based on things from your past as well as your aspirations for the future, and
prepare your answers for an interview.

Consider the relevance to Japan. Even the smallest idea or motivation can tell an
important story about you. Concentrate less on events or situations and more on
how they affected you or what you felt about them.
Internships

17
 Voices of former The voice of experienced job-seekers regarding how they did
international students
"self-analysis". Some of them said, "My self-analysis helped me
How I analyze myself to finally understand what I wanted to do."

I analyzed my strengths and weaknesses, hobbies, and past experiences. In addition,

I asked questions to teachers and classmates to analyze myself. As for the question of
"Things that were fun and challenging in my school days" which was often asked in the
interview and the application form, I listed each episode and looked back on how I grew
up learning from them. Taiwanese (Female)

I participated in a job preparation class held by the university's Career Center in the
fall semester of my junior year, prepared a self-analysis sheet, and conducted self-
analysis. After that, I used the job hunting application to analyze my strengths,
weaknesses and personality. Chinese (Male)

I summarized the experiences that impressed me and explored why I felt that way and
why I acted that way. I also took an online aptitude test and used it as a reference to
see which profession was right for me. Korean (Female)

I wrote down on paper what I did from high school to now and what I learned. I
wrote it not only once, but again after some time. That helped me to remember a lot
of things I had learned. Vietnamese (Female)

I looked through my diary to find out what I did when I was successful or when I solved
a problem and what my strengths and weaknesses were. Korean (Female)

I looked back on why I decided to st udy in Japan. From there, I analyzed the
sense of values I gained from Japanese society as I lived. We also conducted a
self-analysis focusing on the values I had gained by interacting with people at
universities and par t-time jobs, and the values I had from the inf luence of my
family environment. Bangladesh (Male)

Visiting Alumni was very helpful for self-analysis. I was able to see if I could do the
job and if I was interested in the job by asking the former students who were working
at the company about the kind of work they do. Mongolia (Female)

18
COLUMN ❷

Collecting Information on Job Hunting

In order to succeed in getting a job in Japan, it is important to start preparing early and at the same time
collect information about job hunting correctly.

Visit Alumni
You can talk directly to former students who are presently working. For details, see page 35.

Make use of the Internet

Job hunting Site (See page 44)
Employment support and information site for international students (See page 34)
Website of each company
Chamber of Commerce and Industry
JETRO, etc.

Participate in company briefing sessions

Joint company briefings held inside or outside your school provide an opportunity to gather
information on multiple companies. In addition, some companies hold individual company
briefings. Many companies now organize briefings online. Please check the information on job
search websites or the bulletin board at career centers.

Visit the Career Center or Career Services Division (including International Exchange
Center, etc.) on campus.
Career centers and Career Services Division are places where you can gather information
related to job hunting such as job offers from companies, useful books and magazines,
company briefing session information, and job hunting reports from former students. They
also provide instructions about interviews and writing your resume and application forms. You
should get a consultation frequently during job hunting.

Make use of Employment Service Centers for Foreigners and Hello Work (government
employment service).
Job postings and internship information specialized for international students are available.
They also provide individual job counseling. (Refer to the back cover)

Please do not be misled by information

You need to be especially careful about the reliability of reviews and online
information. Since reviews tends to be highly subjective, and some of the
information on the Internet is incorrect or outdated, it is important to verify the
source and reliability of the information.

19
Researching Industries
Research companies that belong to the industry you are interested in.
“Industry” refers to a broad classification of industrial activities such as manufacturing,
commerce, distribution and retail. The first step in identifying potential employers is to choose
the industry and company you want to work in.
Once your interests are clear through self-analysis, find out what industry suits you. "Industry
research" is the first step in choosing the company you want.

Why research industries and companies?

❶ To find out what industries there are in Japan.

❷ To identify the industries and companies that you would like to work in.
❸T o help you to understand what motivates you to apply for the job. You can use this
information in the job application and initial interview.

How to research industries

In order to conduct industry research, we first learn what industries there are in Japan, then narrow down
the industries you are interested in and investigate them in detail. You can study each industry in detail,
using the following five-step process.

1 Analyze economic and social trends.

Watch and listen to the news.

2 Find out what industries there are. 2

Search on the internet and look through the relevant publications.

3 3
Identify all of the industries that interest you and/or suit your skills.
Look for industries that appear to be consistent with your long-term career goals.

4 4
Also explore industries that are connected with those industries you identified in Step 3.
This will give you a broader range of options for your preferred industry.

5 Now make a shortlist of industries in which you are most interested. Use this
shortlist to conduct more in-depth research into the industries where possible.
Find out which companies are operating in your shortlisted industries.

20
 Relationships between industries

When researching an industry, it is important to understand the connections between the industry you
are interested in and other industries. Even if you want to work in a specific industry, researching a
variety of industries at the beginning of your job hunting will broaden your perspective and the range of
industries you wish to work in. Let's look at the industries related to the retail business as an example.

Self-analysis and
Example of the retail industry

Evaluation
Manufacturing

Manufacturing

Examining Industries
and sales of
products

Transportation
Trading company
industr y
The products manufactured
Wholesale of by the manufact urer are
Finance

Examining Company
transpor ted to trading
products companies or retail stores.
When a transaction of money occurs
in the sale and purchase of products,
both companies and consumers will
be closely involved with the financial Distribution / Retail
industry such as a bank.

Sales of products

Examining Job Types

to consumers
It can be seen that many
different industries are
involved f rom the time a
product is manufactured until
it's introduced to consumers.
Information and communication /
Mass media
Adver tise in various kinds of mediums
Visiting Alumni

such as web, TV, and posters to encourage Consumers

consumers to purchase products.

Popular industries for international students

One of the popular industries for international students is the consulting industry.
The consulting industry is a business conducting a wide range of research and
providing support to accomplish the tasks that the company is facing such as
management strategies and business systems. In addition, many students tend
Internships

to apply to trading companies, as well as the Information, Communication and

Mass media industry.

21
 Manufacturing
The ability to predict and
manufacture products to match
the needs of an era is the key!

There are all sorts of manufacturers. They can be divided into many industries such as electronics, automotive,
and food based on what they produce. In addition to producing daily goods that are familiar to us, manufacturers
also produce semiconductors, electronic components, and materials used to produce houses and automobiles.
It is important not only to manufacture high-quality products but also to create products with a story that attracts
and resonates with consumers.

Main industries Main jobs and job types

■ Food ■ Clerical and administrative･･･P26
■ Electronic and electrical equipment ■ Planning･･･P27
■A utomobiles and transportation ■ Sales･･･P27
equipment ■ Technology and research･･･P28
■ Chemicals and petroleum
■ Construction
■ Housing and interior design

Trading companies
Trading professionals connect
people with corporations,
corporations with corporations.

From buying and selling products at stores to purchasing oil, natural gas, or other energy resources, trading companies
serve as channels between corporations and consumers, as well as between corporations.
There are two prominent types of trading companies: general trading companies that handle diverse products, and
specialized trading companies that only handle specific products. The former type features comprehensiveness, and the
latter expertise. Since there are opportunities to do business with various countries, the ability to work globally is required.

Main industries Main jobs and job types

■ General trading companies ■ Clerical and administrative･･･P26
■ Specialized trading companies (food) ■ Planning･･･P27
■ S pecialized trading companies (iron, ■ Sales･･･P27
steel, and metals)
■ Specialized trading companies (textiles
and apparel)

Finance
From where there is a surplus to where
there is a shortage, this is the 'lubricant
of the economy' supporting Japan

The finance industry advances money from those with a surplus to those experiencing a shortage to adjust temporary deficiency and excess.
Japanese financial institutions include public sector financial institutions whose objectives are economic development and stability of national
life. They also include private sector financial institutions that engage in indirect financing of loan corporations with funds (accumulated in the
form of deposits) and direct financing of intermediate trading of stock certificates and bonds. In addition, there are credit and loan companies,
as well as lease companies for lending store equipment.

Main industries Main jobs and job types

■ Banks ■ Clerical and administrative･･･P26
■ S ecurities and investment trust ■ Planning･･･P27
management ■ Sales･･･P27
■ Credit, loans, and leasing ■ Specialized･･･P29
■ Insurance ■ Finance･･･P31
■ Credit associations

22
 Services Providing intangible goods
to create an enriched life

"Services" is an economic term that refers to intangible goods that provide benefits or satisfaction, and do not leave any
commodity remaining after their sale or purchase. Businesses that handle such goods are considered service industries.
There are many service industries in the world. For example, we use transportation and traffic services, leisure services, food
services, and medical services. Service industries aim to provide convenience and satisfaction to consumers. Considering
the expansion of globalization in recent years, an international perspective is required to provide better services to customers.

Self-analysis and
Evaluation
Main industries Main jobs and job types
■ Consulting and research ■ Clerical and administrative･･･P26
■ Hotels, travel, and sightseeing ■ Planning･･･P27
■T ransportation, distribution, and ■ Sales･･･P27
warehousing ■ Specialized･･･P29
■ Food services ■ Sales and services･･･P30
■ Medical, welfare, and care services
■N onprofit, special, and independent,

Examining Industries
administrative institutions

Distribution The architect of a consumer

and retail
society connecting producers
and consumers

The flow of products from production to consumption is called "distribution", and businesses that sell products to

Examining Company
consumers are called "retailers".
The key to retailing is understanding the constantly changing needs of consumers and responding to them
accurately. Retailers include department stores, which have supported consumption in Japan, supermarkets,
convenience stores, and specialty stores such as electronics retail stores, and mail order businesses.

Main industries Main jobs and job types

■ Department stores ■ Clerical and administrative･･･P26
■ Supermarkets ■ Planning･･･P27
■ Convenience stores ■ Sales･･･P27

Examining Job Types

■ Specialty stores ■ Specialized･･･P29
■ Mail order ■ Sales and services･･･P30

Information, communications, A growing industry where

technological advances have
and mass media a major impact on society with
excellent market potential

The Information and Communications industry makes peoples' lives more convenient through the usage of information and
Visiting Alumni

communication technology (ICT), such as mobile phones and the internet.

The term "mass media" collectively refers to newspaper companies, news service agencies, publishers, broadcasters,
advertising agencies, record companies, production companies, and freelance journalists. They communicate a large amount of
information to a multitude of people. This characteristic of the industry has resulted in a significant impact on opinion-making.

Main industries Main jobs and job types

■ Software and information processing ■ Clerical and administrative･･･P26
■ Game software ■ Planning･･･P27
■ Communications ■ Sales･･･P27
■ Internet technology ■ Specialized･･･P29
Internships

■ Publishing ■ Creative･･･P32
■ Broadcasting ■ IT･･･P32

23
Researching Companies
Research a company that belongs in an industry you prefer
When researching a company, you should study from two key perspectives:
"Management Perspective" including the company philosophy and management, the business
strategy and performance, the management resource, etc. and "Workplace Perspective" including
the human resource and organization, the job assignment, the evaluation and treatment, etc.
Company philosophy Human resources and
and management organization
Management Business strategy and Workplace Job assignment
Perspective performance Perspective
Management Resource Evaluation and treatment

Company size
Ja p a n h a s a p p r ox i m a t ely 3. 38 m i l l io n The percentage of total
businesses and small and medium businesses number of companies
Large
account for 99.7% of the total. International
0.3%
students are often keen to work for large
corporations that are well-known in their The number
Small/
of companies in
home countries. But it is important to consider Japan: medium
Approximately
potential employers of all sizes, as this will 3.38 million 99.7%
businesses
significantly increase your chances of getting From White Pager on Small and Medium
Enterprise in Japan / 2024 (Small and
a job in Japan. Medium Enterprise Agency)

Employers of international
■ Benefits by company size students by size
(companies of unknown ■…Employees：1,000 +
Large ■…Employees：Less than 1,000
size excluded)

●Comprehensive employee training programs Machinery and 465

electronics 526
●Comprehensive employee welfare schemes
52
Food
●Opportunities to be involved in major projects 294
Transportation 189
equipment 114
(automobiles, etc.)
74
Chemicals
Small/medium 85
30
Textiles/Clothing 119
●Employees are given important tasks/duties
from an early stage Commerce and 436
trading 2,620
●Broadly defined roles, with potential to take
on various duties and gain a wide range of Computer- 297
related 1,219
experiences
48
●More likely to adopt performance base Education 369
system, so promotion speed is relatively fast.
Food and drinks 44
industry 448
71
Hotels and Inns 385
47
Travel industry 343

Finance and 104

insurance 92

0 100 200 300 400 500 600 (Number of people)

From The Employment of International Students by Japanese
Companies in 2015 (Immigration Bureau, Ministry of Justice)

24
As can be seen from the left page, most Japanese companies are small-to-mid-sized companies.
Here is a guide on how to conduct research on small-to-mid-sized companies that have less
information available compared to large companies.

Finding a small-to-mid-sized company

■ Search on employment information websites

Self-analysis and
See page 44 for the list of major employment information sites. On page 34 there is an

Evaluation
introduction on how to find employment support companies specializing in international students.
Search companies that meet your requirements using those job information sites.

■ Participate in joint company briefings

Some small-to-mid-sized companies can only be found at joint company briefing sessions held
by universities and local governments. Check out any information from on-campus Career
Centers and on the websites of local governments and chambers of commerce for information on

Examining Industries
company briefing sessions.

■ Register on scout-type recruiting websites

Recently, scout-type recruiting websites have also been attracting attention.Once you register
your account, you will receive scout emails from companies interested in your profile. More
and more companies are using scouting websites because companies can approach potential
employees that match what the companies are looking for.

Examining Company
How to choose a small-to-mid-sized company

● Choose a company that fits your requirements, regardless of the size of the company.
● At small and medium-sized companies, since you are close to the executives, it
is important to determine if their personalities and way of thinking suit you, by going
through the company website and asking questions during the interviews.

Examining Job Types

● See if the company has any future growth prospects.

Corporate research using social media

In addition to their own websites, many companies use various social media to share
information. If you follow the social media accounts of the company you are interested
in, you can learn about the company, the atmosphere of the company, and the people
working there.
Visiting Alumni

Social media are also convenient

as a means to know the situation
of other students. You can see how
they are working on job hunting
and their challenges, so you can
use them as a reference. Also,
there are job hunting sites where
you can read ar ticles about job
hunting experiences and exchange
Internships

information.

25
Researching Job Types
Researching job types and required skills
"Job Type" refers to the type of occupation. Which industry you work in is important, but skills
required differ based on what kind of job you want. This section describes job types and explains
job descriptions for each type of job.

Clerical and administrative

These occupations require contact with all employees, including executives. They support important
decision-making for companies, such as developing corporate frameworks and recruitment, in order to
enhance business efficiency and improve the workplace environment.

General affairs, These occupations support various departments inside companies.

General affairs personnel consolidate workplace environment, organize in-
human resources, and house events, and communicate various messages, etc. Human resources
labor personnel support new employee recruitment, education, and other
manpower-related operations. Labor personnel manage employee working
conditions and arrange for items related to benefits and social insurance.

Finance, accounting, These occupations involve work related to money used in corporate activities.
Finance and accounting personnel manage money that their company
and treasury receives and spends each day and create documents to be submitted to in-
house departments, shareholders, and related government offices. Treasury
personnel conduct budget and account settlement operations, and in some
cases, are responsible for implementing duties in accordance with corporate
strategies, such as negotiations with financial institutions for financing.

Legal affairs, Legal affairs personnel are in charge of legal clerical work in overall
corporate activities. They also contact and consult with corporate lawyers.
screening, Screening personnel check the legality of various contracts that arise during
and patents the execution of business. Patent personnel apply for and register new
products and technologies, and file lawsuits when patents are violated.

Distribution and Individuals in these occupations use information systems to

comprehensively control processes ranging from materials procurement
inventory control to inventory management and product delivery.

Trade clerk and In order for a company to carry out import and export business
smoothly, they are in charge of customs clearance procedures,
overseas clerk declaration of customs duties, arrangement of transportation and
warehouse, payment and collection of payment, etc.

Clerk, secretary, Clerks are in charge of a broad range of work, including handling phone
calls and entering data, as well as buying goods and performing general
and receptionist affairs work relating to employee welfare. Secretaries are required to
perform work ranging from managing the schedule of their superior to
taking care of their superior's daily affairs. Receptionists are in charge of
attending to visitors and directing them to the relevant locations.

What you These occupations provide support to ensure the smooth execution of corporate
business operations, and involve coordination of the movement of people, goods,
should do money, and information. You should assume a leadership role in your seminar
while in class or group to gain experience in being responsible for an organization or
school group, and to develop skills for preventing/solving problems and managing others.

26
Planning
These occupations are required at all types of company. Individuals in these occupations plan and develop new
products and devise sales strategies.

Advertising To promote the sale of products and services and to enhance corporate
image, advertising and public relations personnel communicate financial
and public relations results, corporate policies and other company information to the world.
The work is conducted in cooperation with advertising agencies.

Self-analysis and
Research studies These occupations involve the study of market trends. Individuals in

Evaluation
these occupations use the results of their studies to develop sales
and marketing strategies for products and services and to develop new products. In
addition to products, they analyze advertisements, sales strategies,
and distribution channels, etc., in a comprehensive manner.

Planning and These occupations involve understanding the needs of customers in order
to create products. Individuals in these occupations repeatedly create
product development

Examining Industries
prototypes and conduct monitor surveys to develop distribution channels
and sales strategies. Collaboration with research divisions and production
divisions is indispensable, because they are the ones that actually
commercialize products based on targets set for pricing, etc.

Corporate planning Corporate planning personnel utilize their expertise in corporate planning to
support presidents, executives, and other members of top management.
They have many opportunities to interact with management and are
entrusted to make important decisions affecting the future of their company.

Examining Company
What you You need to have the ability to collect, organize, and analyze information and grasp
should do trends. You also need to have the ability to actualize your ideas. You should use
activities inside and outside school to develop communication skills and the ability
while in to propose ideas. It is also important to develop thinking skills through planning
school events, writing reports, or pursuing graduation work.

Sales

Examining Job Types

Individuals in these occupations target companies and individuals to propose and sell company products and
services. They listen and respond to customers' demands in order to acquire the trust of the customer, which
leads to sales. They also formulate and lead systems to produce profits.

Sales (mainly Individual sales representatives visit homes to introduce and sell
company products, while corporate sales representatives visit
new customer companies to obtain contracts. New customer development involves
development) visiting companies/individuals inside an assigned area.

Sales These sales representatives target regular customers and client

Visiting Alumni

companies. It is fundamental for both individual and corporate sales

(mainly existing representatives to establish trust with their customers. In addition, they
customers) are required to proactively gather information, etc., and make cutting-
edge proposals, based on a relationship of trust.

Sales promotion Sales promotion personnel assist in setting goals for each division, office,
or sales representative, developing tools and providing data. Merchandising
and merchandising personnel communicate product characteristics and other information to
sales channels in order to provide ways to effectively sell products.
Internships

What you As a way to train yourself to listen carefully to what others say, you should
develop communication skills and the ability to accurately understand the
should do other party's demands. It is also useful to build a wide network of personal
while in school connections.

27
Technology and research
These occupations involve researching new technologies and creating products in
collaboration with sales and production divisions, within a predetermined schedule.

Basic research Basic research personnel develop new areas with the expectation
of creating an advantage in the future. In many cases, they conduct
joint research with universities and public institutions. In the medical
supply field, joint research with overseas groups is also prominent. It is
necessary to be able to foresee what industry your research theme will
become useful for in the future.

Applied research and Applied research personnel use the results of basic research to conduct
research that will lead to specific technologies/products. Technology
technology development personnel aim to establish technologies to effectively
development produce and provide products and services.

Production and Production and manufacturing technology personnel are in charge of work
ranging from planning and designing production lines, selecting individual
manufacturing equipment, and determining specifications, to installing and maintaining
Technology equipment. Within a team, they jointly conduct operations with a division of
roles, such as electricity, machinery, and controls. Today, as small lot, multi-
model production has become mainstream, the role of production and
manufacturing technology engineers is becoming more significant.

Quality, production Quality personnel plan inspections and check the actual sites to prevent
problems in the manufacturing process. Production management personnel
management,and control production in accordance with business plans and requests from sales
maintenance representatives. Maintenance personnel inspect and maintain production lines.

Architectural and Architectural and civil engineering design can be largely divided
into three categories: "housing" for individual homes and apartment
civil engineering buildings, "other architecture" for office buildings and large stores, and
design, "civil" for parks, roads, and tunnels. Surveying involves determining
surveying, the topography of sites. Cost management personnel calculate and
and cost management manage budgets related to construction work.

Construction Construction management personnel execute control over construction

and civil engineering work, and act as field foremen. Their job content
management varies depending on the content of construction work and the scale of
the project. They arrange for workers, control quality, and also manage
schedules. In the case of large buildings or civil engineering work, they
sometimes coordinate with subcontractors.

Machinery and They are the core of commercializing machinery and electronic equipment
manufactured by electronic equipment manufacturers and machinery
electronic manufacturers. They fully utilize CAD to create designs that are advanced
equipment design and stable in functionality, while also being user-friendly and beautiful.

These occupations place importance on accuracy and effectiveness, as well as

What you specialized knowledge in product development and realization. You should adopt
should do an attitude that is highly motivated and diligent in pursuing your interests. It is
while in also useful to acquire qualifications and licenses to enhance your expertise. You
school should learn research methods that are in accordance with demands through
report writing and other work based on materials and data.

28
Specialized
These occupations only exist in specific industries. They require advanced skills and specialized knowledge
of individual fields. In many cases, one of the criteria for you to get a job is having specific qualifications
or certification.

MR MR is an abbreviation for "medical representative." They represent

pharmaceutical companies and communicate the efficacy and

Self-analysis and
characteristics of the pharmaceuticals manufactured by their company

Evaluation
to doctors and other medical staff.

Pharmacist Pharmacists dispense medications in accordance with prescriptions

issued by doctors. Their job also has an aspect of the service industry
because they give instructions and advice to patients and customers on
how to take medicine, such as informing them about possible side effects
and allergies. They also order pharmaceuticals and control their inventory.

Examining Industries
Medical technician There are several types of medical technician, including "medical
technologists" who examine specimens, "clinical radiologists" who diagnose
and nurse and treat patients using radiation, and "clinical engineers" who operate
and maintain artificial organs. Nurses are in charge of health and hygiene
management and treating the diseases of patients as directed by doctors.

Nutritionist Nutritionists are in charge of improving and providing counseling regarding

the diet of their clients. Their duties include instructing cooking staff,

Examining Company
managing hygiene at food service facilities, calculating calories, and creating
menus. In addition, nationally certified senior nutritionists, a higher ranked
nutritionist, conduct nutritional counseling at special care facilities under
license from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.

Welfare worker, Welfare workers provide consultation and care related to welfare, to those
who have disabilities or difficulties in performing normal daily activities.
care worker, Care workers assist the elderly and physically-challenged in developing
and home helper independence, and give advice on how to provide care. Home helpers visit
the homes of the elderly and physically-challenged to provide services.

Examining Job Types

Nursery school Nursery school teachers substitute for parents in providing instructions
on general daily living in accordance with the age of the children at
teacher nursery schools, preschools, etc. In recent years, the scope of their
work has been expanding into day-care centers inside department
stores, leisure facilities, and companies.

Lecturer and The job content of these occupations varies. In the case of a private
tutoring school, for example, lecturers and instructors mainly work to
instructor improve the academic ability of their students and give advice on how
Visiting Alumni

to pass entrance exams for the schools each student wants to attend.
In the case of providing education to working adults, lecturers and
instructors can be responsible for teaching classes in a school setting.
They can also visit companies to conduct employee training. There are
also sports instructors who provide instruction at sport gyms or fitness
clubs.

Business consultant Business consultants act as advisers to business managers and give advice on
management issues from an objective standpoint. They also clarify issues and
problems regarding businesses, human resources, and systems, to formulate
Internships

improvement plans and to suggest procedures executing such plans.

29
IT consultant IT consultants provide consulting related to IT that is directly connected
to the management of a company. Such consulting services include
things such as acting as an advisor for the implementation of a new
system at a computer manufacturer, drawing up tentative IT strategy
plans, analyzing results, establishing systems, and outsourcing their
operation.

Specialized In recent years, the field of consulting has expanded, and specialized
consultants providing advice and guidance on business improvement
consultant for various industries such as finance, distribution, and medical care are
increasing. Also, there are consultants who are involved with a specific
operation at a company, such as sales, patents, or taxation business.

Financial advisor Financial advisors are consulted for advice on the management of
the assets of individual customers (deposits and savings, insurance,
securities, real estate, etc.), land use, inheritance issues, and other
related general financial topics.

Translator Translators work to translate sentences written in foreign languages into

Japanese. There are literary translations for novels and children's books,
video translations to put subtitles in movies and overseas TV dramas,
and business translation for technical fields such as IT and medical, as
well as corporate contracts and reports, etc.

Interpreter Their job is to support communication between Japanese and foreign

people. Simultaneous interpretation refers to providing interpretation at the
same time as a speaker is talking, and consecutive interpretation refers
to providing interpretation in batches. Business interpretation is used in
inter-business transactions and other business operations, conference
interpretation is used in international conferences, and broadcasting
interpretation is used to provide interpretation for dual-language
broadcasting on TV.

Announcer Announcers use their voice and words to communicate information to many
people. In addition to hosting TV information and variety shows and sports
commentary, they also act as a radio personality and host for events.

What you Since these are jobs that require a high level of expertise and skill, you should
should do be willing to learn about your interests. It is also useful to acquire qualifications
while in and licenses to enhance your expertise. As a way to train yourself to carefully
school listen to what others say, you should develop communication skills.

Sales and services

These occupations involve selling products and providing services at department stores, specialty stores,
and mass retailers. Individuals in these occupations also understand consumer needs and promptly propose
products, grasping overall trends to allow them to formulate sales strategies.

Sales staff and Sales staff and attendants attend to customers at department stores,
supermarkets, mass retailers, and individual specialty stores. They
attendant introduce products according to the customer's taste. They also devise
ways to encourage customers to visit their stores by preparing direct
marketing, flyers, and product lineups suited to their customer base.

30
Store manager Store managers comprehensively oversee the operations of stores,
including store organization, inventory, and sales management. In
addition to educating and instructing part-time workers and sales staff,
they are also required to find ways to increase profitability.

Supervisor Supervisors work with businesses such as supermarkets, mass retailers,

convenience stores, restaurants, and fast food restaurants, managing
multiple locations. They monitor store operation from the aspects of
sales and management, and if necessary, provide instruction.

Self-analysis and
Buyer Buyers analyze trends and the preferences of consumers to procure

Evaluation
products and raw materials to be placed on store shelves. They look for
products that match the concept of the company and have distinctive
features that differentiate them from other companies in the industry,
and purchase them as cheaply as possible.

Esthetician They listen to customers' wishes and problems, give advice on beauty
methods, and perform treatments such as facial care, body care, slimming

Examining Industries
and depilation.

What you The ability to build relationships of trust is important in jobs that involve selling
should do products and services to individuals or companies. You should learn how to
accurately understand the demands of the other party and how to propose solutions
while in or plans. It is also important to always train yourself to listen carefully to what others
school say and to build networks with people beyond the boundaries of the university.

Finance

Examining Company
These occupations are only available in the finance industry. Individuals in these occupations utilize their
advanced specialized knowledge of economic trends, stock markets, and financial products in order to manage
funds and the capital of individuals and corporate customers.

Exchange dealer Exchange dealers buy and sell Japanese yen and foreign currencies on
behalf of their customers to produce marginal profits in exchange rates.
and trader

Examining Job Types

Traders understand the trends of bonds and stock prices and provide
related information to customers. Their job is to receive orders from
customers to buy or sell, then transmit those orders to dealers.

Loan and financial As specialists in fund management, loan and financial planners earn
profits based on funds that are entrusted to them. Loan planners
planner bankroll their company funds at financial institutions, such as banks.
Financial planners invest assets in securities and bonds to earn a margin.

Security analyst Security analysts analyze the future of industries or individual

companies and stock price trends based on their wide range of
Visiting Alumni

knowledge of economics, industries, and the world. Some security

analysts flourish on their own while others work at insurance companies
or in the asset management divisions of ordinary companies.

Actuary This refers to insurance actuaries. Individuals in this occupation utilize

a high level of statistical expertise to provide mathematical support to
allow insurance companies to maintain sound management while setting
adequate premiums and insurance payments for each insurance subscriber.

What you Since specialized knowledge and a deep understanding of finance are required,
Internships

you should keep up to date with economic news. You should develop the ability
should do to collect, organize, and analyze information through your participation in team
while in seminars or group activities. You should also acquire the ability to quickly grasp
school information and to understand the meaning of new economic movements.

31
Creative
These occupations are involved with artistic works or product creation. Communication skills are required to
explain ideas to customers. Some individuals in these occupations flourish on their own while others work in
the production divisions of ordinary companies or production companies.

Editing and Editing and production personnel create print media, such as magazines,
books, and web content, etc. They multitask to carry out a variety of work,
production including making plans, arranging for staff, making appointments for on-
site reporting, and coordinating plans with sales representatives.

Reporter and writer Newspaper reporters are employed by newspaper companies. Their
job is to conduct on-site reporting and write newspaper articles. Writers
have their own specialized fields, such as music and business, and write
articles to be printed in magazines, books, and advertisements.

Designer Graphic designers are involved with printed materials. Some graphic
designers specialize in advertisements and others specialize in
publications. In addition, there are Web designers who are engaged
in website creation, fashion designers in the apparel field, and interior
designers in the construction field.

Game creator Game production involves scenario writers who come up with stories,
designers who create characters, programmers who write the codes for a
game system, sound designers and directors/producers who control the
entire project. The title "game creator" is a general term for these occupations.

These occupations involve showing the appeal of plans, products, and services
What you to the general public. You should acquire skills in planning, and in presenting
should do your ideas in an understandable manner. You should also acquire communication
while in skills and Japanese language skills to allow you to communicate messages. It is
school recommended to gain experience working part-time in mass media, producing
student newspapers and informational magazines.

IT
With the development and spread of information and communication technologies, there is an increased
demand for computer system engineers at computer companies and in-house engineers at other companies.

Programmer Programmers follow specifications to create computer programs, and

are in charge of creating the flowchart that determines the processing
procedure, coding in the programming language, and checking the
operation.

System engineer System engineers learn about, and design a system that suits the goals
and demands of customers. This occupation requires the ability to
listen to others, propose ideas, and communicate effectively.

Network engineer Network engineers develop systems specially for networks within
computer systems. Currently, the utilization of networks between locations
inside and outside companies, and between companies and consumers,
is a significant theme for corporate strategy. Unsurprisingly, network
engineers are receiving particular attention among IT occupations.

32
Customer engineer Customer engineers provide lectures on how to operate systems and
hardware so that customers can use computer systems effectively.
They also perform regular inspections and respond to problems.

System System maintenance personnel regularly inspect computer systems,

and adjust systems in accordance with the replacement of computers
maintenance or peripheral devices. System operation personnel provide operation
and operation management to ensure that the installed system operates without problems.

Self-analysis and
System consultant System consultants provide expert advice and planning when

Evaluation
companies implement computerized business systems. They meet
with customers to address any demands and issues, and propose
appropriate solutions.

Sales engineer Sales engineers accompany sales representatives or visit customers

on their own and explain the technical aspects of company products

Examining Industries
and systems. They assist in securing contracts. Sales engineers are a
type of sales representative, and are also expected to conduct activities
focused on obtaining the trust of customers.

Customer support Customer support personnel respond to inquiries from users regarding
company products and services. The content of the support varies
according to the industry.

Examining Company
What you These occupations require a deep understanding of IT technologies and
should do computer network systems, as well as specialized skills. You should acquire
while in the ability to propose solutions and plans to solve issues, as well as manage
school operations with specific procedures accurately.

Examining Job Types

Visiting Alumni
Internships

33
COLUMN ❸
Make Full Use of Employment Support Companies
and Websites for International Students

Many international students have difficulty searching for companies recruiting international students.
More students are now using employment support companies and websites specializing in international
student support.

How to search for information

Use search keywords such as " 留学生 " " 就職支援 " (employment support for international students)
to search for companies offering employment support to international students. Each has its own
unique features, so choose the one that suits you. However, please note that the number of companies
and industries listed may differ depending on the site.

General employment support companies Employment support companies and

and websites websites specializing in international students
・Used by many students ・Available only to international students
・Large number of companies listed ・A large number of seminars specially for
・Job postings in a wide range of industries international students are available
・You can apply for internship or entr y ・Corporate information on active recruitment
selection of international students is posted
・Number of job of fer s for international ・The number of job openings published by
students is small companies is smaller than those by general
employment support companies and websites
・International students can get advice on
finding a job in Japan

If you search the name of your prefecture followed by the

keywords 留学生 (international student) 就職 (employment),
you can find information on job offers for international
students living in that specific area and information on
events such as joint company briefing sessions.

Reference
■ Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare Employment Security Target audience
Bureau Hellowork Internet Service Both Japanese
and foreigners
https://www.hellowork.mhlw.go.jp/index.html

You can search for job openings for international students across Japan by searching for
keywords such as "English," "Chinese," and "Global Talent."

■ JETRO（Japan External Trade Organization）Open for Professionals Target audience

https://www.jetro.go.jp/hrportal/ Foreigners

This site provides information on employment to highly-skilled foreign professionals who

live in Japan or who are considering living in Japan. The site is also available in English.

34
Visiting Alumni
The best opportunity to hear about working people's true thoughts
You can talk directly to alumni who work at the company and gather information that you
cannot obtain from the company brochure and websites.

Self-analysis and
Evaluation
Process of visiting alumni

If you are familiar with someone at the company you are applying
to, you should contact them directly. If not, you should consult with
your school's career services center. Some schools have introduced
an online system for requesting alumni visits. In addition, recently

Examining Industries
Look for someone who there are many applications that allow students to search for alumni.
Always make sure that you are identifying and using these systems
graduated before you safely. It is also useful to make use of connections and ask people
from clubs, part-time jobs or friends if they can introduce you to any
opportunities.

If you want to contact someone that has been introduced to you,

Make an appointment you should be conscious of your manners when contacting him/her
by telephone or e-mail.

Examining Company
When the date is set to meet the alumnus/alumna, you should
Prepare prepare "what you want to ask," "where to put focus when asking
questions", etc.

Be sure to wear a suit or jacket to be polite even if you are visiting

someone you know well. This is all the more true when meeting the
Day of the visit person for the first time. Especially, being late is heavily frowned

Examining Job Types

upon. Also, pay attention to your language and attitude.

Summarize the content and impression of the inter view on a

notebook or your computer. Then, you should once again examine
After the visit the things closely to see if the company meets your expectations.
Be sure to send a Thank you e-mail to the individual you met with.

Examples of questions when visiting alumni

Visiting Alumni

● What is your daily schedule like? ● What should I practice on while I'm a student?
● What are the things that make you happy, ● What's your office like?
or what struggles do you face at work? ● Please tell me your career path.
● Was there a discrepancy between before ● What are the strengths of your company compared
and after you joined the company? to other companies in the same industry?

Asking questions about the information listed in the company brochure or website may
Internships

be taken as an indication of a lack of research, so be sure to ask about other things.

35
Internships
Internships are valuable opportunities to experience working
Internship means "Activities in which students gain work experience related to their interests,
including their major, and their future careers, with the aim of determining whether or not they are
capable of doing the job." This is different from training that takes place after you accept a job offer;
students apply for internships while job-hunting and participate after going through a selection
process. Many internship students do not receive compensation from companies because the purpose
of the internship is to provide them with a better understanding of the industry and the company.
If you participate in an internship focusing on what you will learn and acquire, you will have an
experience that you cannot get in a regular classroom.

■ Internships for students who will graduate or complete their studies in 2024 or later
The "Basic Approach to Promotion of Internship" was revised in June 2022 and the idea of what an internship
is, was also changed. One of the major changes is that types 3 and 4 that meet certain criteria such as activities
including work experience are now considered an "Internship". Also in type 3 internships, companies can use
the student information obtained during the internship for public relations and recruiting activities. However,
internships are not a recruitment activity, but career development. Therefore, you must apply separately
to proceed to the selection process for employment. The utilization of acquired student information for
recruitment activities will be disclosed in the application guidelines so please check the guidelines carefully.

Advantages of participating in an internship

❶ Students can experience Japanese labor practices, etc.

❷ Students can improve their communication skills.
❸ Students can learn how to greet people, take phone calls, and other business manners.
❹ Students can utilize what they experience in internships when they examine companies
and select an industry.

Stories of internship experiences (comments from international students)

Able to learn about Japanese corporate customs and work practices.

● We practiced how to exchange business cards, how to create and present documents in PowerPoint presentations, and
how to hold group discussions. I'm glad that I was able to know the manners and knowledge that are indispensable for
working people.
● I learned from experience that I need to know not just about my chosen field, but but also social rules and techniques to
maintain human relationships.

Useful for job hunting

● By interacting with students from different universities and employees from different companies, I was able to expand
my knowledge and learn a lot. Also, I was able to directly ask employees about the atmosphere and working style of the
company, which I would not have known until I actually got a job.
● I think internship experiences can be used to appeal to companies in resumes and during interviews.

Understanding industries and job types

● I participated in an internship at a company that I knew in my daily life, and I was able to see aspects of the company that I
didn't know, which made me more interested.
● I worked with internship participants online from planning to presentation. It was good that I was able to experience the
work even though it was a limited time.

36
 Internship classifications and how to begin an internship

Classifications Accreditation of university credits Details and how to begin

Internships are offered as part of a
Internship conducted as a recognized for school career-related course. Companies
required class credit where students participate in internships
are selected by the university.
Internships posted by career service

Self-analysis and
divisions of universities, career centers,
etc. After carefully reading the posted

Evaluation
Internship conducted as a usually not recognized for information, students apply for the
non-required activity school credit internship through the career service
division/career center of their university
or directly to the company.

Internships posted on job search

websites, company websites, etc. Some
I n t e r n s h i p c o n d u c t e d usually not recognized for

Examining Industries
companies have a selection process
i n d e p e n d e n t l y b y a school credit (document screening and interview,
company. etc.), and only selected applicants are
allowed to participate in the internship.

Styles of Internship and other initiatives to support the career development of students

Style Target student Expected contents Duration Utilization in Recruitment Activities

※

Examining Company
Undergraduate and
① Open company graduate students Company briefing One day ×
(regardless of grade)

Undergraduate and Classes and industry-

Varies by class/
② Career education graduate students (mainly academia collaboration
program ×
for lower grades) programs

Undergraduate (mainly 5 days or more for general

③ Internship for general for higher grades) and
Includes actual work ability utilization type
◯
※

ability/specialization experience 2 weeks or more for

graduate students specialized utilization type

Examining Job Types

④ Highly specialized Graduate students
Includes actual work
Over 2 months ◯
※

internship experience

※ Only after the start of recruitment activities

Online internship
In some cases, you can join the internship online using a web conferencing system such
as Zoom. The content tends to be a problem-solving type in which, after listening to the
company's explanation, participants are divided into groups of several people to work on
the assigned tasks and make a presentation.
Visiting Alumni

Internship at Employment Service Centers for Foreigners

◎ Placements are secured in various fields ranging from famous companies to excellent local
companies.
◎ Through cooperation with schools, consideration is given to ensure smooth internship
experiences for international students.
◎ Lectures, etc. are provided to students before participating in an internship.
◎ Students can continue to receive employment support from the Employment Service
Internships

Center for Foreigners even after completion of an internship.

◎ The Japanese government covers the cost of accident and liability insurance during
internships.

37
Job Hunting Manners Manners to Make a Good Impression ①

Using honorifics
Honorifics are an indispensable element in building trust with others. The key to using honorifics
naturally is acquiring accurate knowledge, and at the same time, proactively using them in various
situations in real life to get used to them. Above all, internalizing a feeling of respect towards others will
allow honorifics to come naturally to you.

■ Types of honorific
Respectful terms「尊敬語」‥‥to show respect; used when referring to the acts, status
and possessions of the other party
Humble terms「謙譲語」‥‥to show modesty; used when referring to the acts and
possessions of oneself
Polite terms「丁寧語」‥‥words used when it is necessary to respond politely and elegantly
to others

尊敬語 謙譲語 丁寧語

いる いらっしゃる おります います
行く いらっしゃる 参る、伺う 行きます
聞く お聞きになる 伺う 聞きます
する なさる いたす します
思う 思われる 存じます 思います

■ Language in Business
The Japanese business culture has language and customs unique to Japan, and there are expressions
appropriate for business situations. Make sure to know and use the correct expressions.

Misleading usage of language (examples)

Wrong expressions in business Correct expressions
僕、自分、俺 私、わたくし
おんしゃ

そちらの会社 御社（話し言葉）
き しゃ
こちらの会社 貴社（書き言葉）
了解しました 承知しました
わかりました かしこまりました
ごめんなさい 申し訳ございません

■ How to learn business Japanese

Books on business Japanese are widely published, ranging from comprehensive to conversation-specific.
In addition to learning with books, there are many other ways to learn, such as attending online courses
held by Japanese language schools and watching videos on business Japanese. It is also effective to ask
Japanese teachers or friends for their advice on specific pronunciations that are difficult for you.

38
 Letter-Writing Etiquette
Attaching a cover letter when you send your application form and resume gives a better impression.
Note that there are certain etiquettes to be observed when writing letters.

■ When should letters be used?

・ When mailing application forms and resumes
・ It expresses your sense of gratitude better than e-mail, etc.

■ How to write a Cover Letter ①Date of submission

Write the date of submission
令和□年○月△日 on the right-hand side of the
○○株式会社 top line.
採用ご担当者 様
青海大学経済学研究科 ②Address
王 留学
Address the recipient of the
履歴書送付について cover letter on the second line
of the letter, aligned to the left.
拝啓
貴社ますますご清祥のこととお喜び申し上げます。 ③Subject
Write the subject of the letter
先日は貴社の会社説明会に参加させていただきありがとうございました。貴社の経
in the center of the page in
営方針や事業の内容について理解が深まりました。また、貴社の社員の方々の熱意あ
ふれる仕事ぶりに感銘をうけ、貴社へ入社したいという気持ちが高まりました。
slightly larger characters.

④Details
つきましては、ご指定のありました下記書類を送付させていただきます。よろしく
Write the word “ 記 (Details)”
お願い申し上げます。
above the list of attached
記 documents, aligned center.
履歴書 一通
以上 ⑤End
Write “ 以上 (End)” at the final
line of the letter.
■ How to write on an envelope
Writing on the Front Writing on the Back Address Honorific Example
of Envelopes of Envelopes
Individuals 様 ○○ 様
111 0000 Companies and Other
切手 Organizations 御中 株式会社○○御中
東京都千代田区○○町△丁目×番□号
人事部人事課
株式会社○○商事

Job Title 様 人事ご担当者様

○月○日

Job Titles Attached

〒100-0000
to Individual Names 様 人事部○○様
東京都中央区○○町△丁目×番□号
○○大学△△学部××学科 三年

■ Important Notes When Writing Letters

履歴書在中

○
御中

・ Write the name and address vertically, from right to left.

○

・ Write the complete address without abbreviating the

district or street number.
○

・ Refer to the above table for honorifics.

○

・ Write “ 履歴書在中 (Resume)” or “ エントリーシート在中

(Application Form)” in red characters on the left-hand side.
・ When writing the address of the sender on the back of
the envelope, write the address on the right-hand side
of the central seam, and the name and the department
on the left-hand side.

39
Job Hunting Manners Manners to Make a Good Impression ②

Clothing etiquette
What you wear to a job interview is very important as it shows the company that you are serious about
the interview and have social common sense. Suits designed for job hunting are also available. Choose
clothing that matches your personality and also gives a good impression to the company.

Telephone etiquette
It is not possible to see the face or expressions of the person on the other end of the telephone, so extra
care must be taken.
Take care to avoid leaving an unfavorable impression on the person you were speaking to.
■ When does the telephone need to be used?
・ Changing interview dates
・ Notifying the people concerned about being late for or absent from interviews and tests
・ Contacting the people concerned about job offers, etc.

■ Important notes when making phone calls

Telephones are familiar communication tools in our daily lives. Since the other party cannot see your
face when you are speaking on the phone, your language and tone of voice determine the impression that
you give. Be sure to be considerate and polite.

Avoid making phone calls early in the morning, late at night, immediately before or after start
and finish times, and during lunch breaks. When using your mobile phone, make the call
from a quiet place with good reception.
Before making a phone call, you should have your notebook and calendar ready.
You should be able to describe your name in kanji, alphabet, and katakana.
After introducing yourself and greeting the other party, you should check to see if he or she
has time to talk to you.
You should speak clearly in an appropriate volume. State your business concisely.
Be sure to thank the other party and wait until he or she has hung up before you do so
yourself.

■ When arriving late for an interview

Making sure you give yourself plenty of time is a minimum requirement for members of society. It is
therefore necessary to remember that arriving late should be avoided at all cost. If you are late due to
problems with transportation, or in other unavoidable cases, make sure you contact the company before
your scheduled time of arrival.

Example: When arriving late for an interview

Student “Good morning. This is ooo ooo of ooo university. I have an interview today at oo:oo.
I am currently at oo Station, but there has been an accident involving a human life and
the trains are not running. I expect to arrive at oo:oo. I am very sorry for the trouble.
What should I do? ”

40
 E-Mail Etiquette
E-mail is commonly used when communicating with companies during job hunting activities. Make sure
that you observe the rules of etiquette when communicating through e-mail.

■ When is e-mail used?

・ Expressing your gratitude after internships
・ Thanking people for making alumni appointments and after the visits
・ Replying to e-mail from companies confirming appointments and providing information
・ Expressing gratitude for interviews
・ Questions regarding employment tests and inquiries, etc.

■ E-mail Format
Title
Use simple titles that
express the content clearly.

Address
Address the recipient (name and
affiliated department) at the top of
the e-mail.

Self-introduction
Start the message with a self-
introduction without going straight
into the details.

Main text
Write the main contents of the
message in a simple and easy-to-
understand manner.

Signature
Sign the end of the e-mail with
your school name, your name, your
e-mail address, your telephone
number and other details.

■ Important Notes When Writing E-mails

● Separate the contents into paragraphs to make sure they can be easily read.
● Check everything to make sure there are no typos or missing characters before you send it.
● If you are using a free e-mail provider, make sure your e-mail address is appropriate.
● Check the name of the [Sender] displayed when you send the e-mail, and correct any
nicknames, etc., if they have been set.
● Use the telephone if it is urgent or if you need to apologize.
● Reply immediately to all e-mails received from the company.

41
COLUMN ❹

Cost of Job Hunting

Job hunting activities require a lot of money. For example, clothes for attending briefing sessions and
interviews, ID photos, and reference books. Also, some people spend money on IT equipment, such
as web cameras and lighting as online job hunting has becoming more common. Let's make sure to
understand the cost of job hunting in advance and prepare for it.

The following is a summary of the results from a questionnaire on the cost of job hunting, collected
from international students.

■ Breakdown of job hunting cost (Reference)

Suits, bags, etc. Between 15,000 yen and 70,000 yen

Transportation expenses Between 0 yen and 60,000 yen

Accommodation expenses Between 0 yen and 10,000 yen

Reference book, postage, and resume fees Between 500 yen and 20,000 yen

ID photo fee Between 1,000 yen and 15,000 yen

IT equipment related expenses Between 1,500 yen and 25,000 yen

■ How much did the job hunting cost?

Suits, bags, etc.………………… 15,000 yen Suits……………………………… 30,000 yen
Transportation expenses……………… 0 yen ID photo fee……………………… 10,000 yen
ID photo fee……………………… 15,000 yen Resume fees……………………… 1,000 yen
Reference book expenses……… 10,000 yen Transportation expenses……… 20,000 yen
IT equipment related expenses…… 25,000 yen Total cost………………………… 61,000 yen
Total cost………………………… 65,000 yen
I bought a suit set at the
I bought an external job hunting campaign of
camera and light for an a store.
online interview.

Female student
Male student (Received an offer from an
(Received an offer from a employment support agency)
distribution / retail company)

There were many companies

that required resumes to be
Transportation expenses………… 3,000 yen
submit ted in PDF by email
ID photo, resume fees…………… 1,000 yen rather than paper. I used the
Total cost…………………………… 4,000 yen suit I bought when I entered
university.
Male student
(Received an offer from
a system development
company)

42
From Application to
Document Screening
Applications
Starting an application is the first step to job hunting 44

Company Briefing Sessions

Developing an eye for companies 45

Application Documents
To fully convey your strengths 47

43
Applications
Starting an application is the first step to job hunting
Starting an application, called "entry" in Japanese, involves showing your interests in the company.
Some companies call this "pre-entry". When you do so, the company will send you employment
information, company information, announcements of briefing sessions, etc., via e-mail or direct mail.
As your first step, you should actively start applications for companies that you are interested in.

How to start an application

■ The company information page on an employment information website

The bulk application feature allows you to search for companies according to the type of industry,
occupation, etc., and to start applications for multiple companies. This feature is useful for selecting
companies in the initial phase of job hunting.When using multiple information websites, be sure
not to start redundant applications. Starting an application does not mean that you must take the
screening test for that company.

■ List of major employment information websites

ACCESS Humanext (operated by Access Nextage Co., Ltd.) https://job.ac-lab.jp/

Asagaku Navi (operated by Gakujo Co., Ltd.) https://www.gakujo.ne.jp/

Shushoku Walker Net (operated by J Broad Co., Ltd.) https://www.s-walker.net/

Diamond Shushoku Navi (operated by Diamond Human Resources Co., Ltd.) https://www.shukatsu.jp/

Career+ (operated by DISCO Inc.) https://job.career-tasu.jp/

Bun Nabi! (operated by Bunkahoso Career Partners Co., Ltd.) https://bunnabi.jp/

Mynavi (operated by Mynavi Corporation) https://job.mynavi.jp/

Rikunabi (operated by Recruit Co., Ltd.) https://job.rikunabi.com/

Note: The list above indicates employment information websites that are operated by member companies of the New Graduate/Youth
Employment Committee, Association of Job Information of Japan (AJIJ).

Others can be found by searching for keywords such as 留学生 (international student) and
就職支援 (employment support). (see page 34)

■ Starting applications directly through recruitment websites of individual companies

Each company has its own schedule for accepting applications (entry), so it is important to
check frequently.
■ Starting applications through direct mail, etc., from companies

Application announcements are sometimes sent to prospective graduates via direct mail, etc.
44
Company Briefing Sessions
Developing an eye for companies
Company briefing sessions, seminars, and similar events are held after applications are submitted
and before moving onto the selection process. Attending the briefing sessions, etc., provides the
opportunity to listen to explanations provided by recruiters, interact with the employees, and feel the

Applications
atmosphere within the company.

Company Briefing Types

Company briefing sessions can be split into two types as shown below. It is recommended that the
main features of each of the sessions are fully understood to ensure the effectiveness of attending the
sessions.

Briefing Sessions
Company
Company Briefing Sessions (Independent) Joint Company Briefing Sessions
Briefing sessions held by a single Briefing sessions held by many
c o m p a ny. T h e m a i n fe a tu r e of t h e s e companies gathered in the same forum in
briefings is that they provide detailed hotels and event halls around the country.
explanations on the business the company You are advised to actively use them as
is involved in, the work each department an oppor tunity to compare companies
c a r r i e s ou t, a s we ll a s othe r det a il s. and across various industries.
Reservations are required in advance to
attend company briefing sessions. The

Application documents
number of participants is limited, so early
reservations are recommended.

Company briefing sessions are held either face-to-face or online. There are two main styles of
online briefing sessions:

Live streaming
Briefing sessions held on a fixed date and time, which are streamed online. You can also
ask questions in real time to the company during the session using the chat functions.

On-demand
Briefing sessions distributed as pre-recorded videos. You may view videos published
on the official website, or you may access the URL of a video sent to applicants. You
can watch it at your convenience.

Collecting Information on Company Briefing Sessions

You will be contacted by e-mail or other methods in regard to schedules,

Contact from Companies・・・ etc. from the company you have applied to.

Information can be found in new graduate recruitment information pages on

Company Website・・・ the [Recruitment] section of their websites.

Available on the [Event] page of job information websites and it is

Job Information Sites・・・ possible to run searches by location, date/time and type of event, etc.

Career Centers・・・ Posters are available on bulletin boards in careers centers, etc.
Advertisements for events and lists of event information are
Job Information Magazines・・・ available in magazines related to job information placed in career
centers etc.

45
 Preparation for and attitude in company briefing sessions

■ Things to do before the session

● Conduct your own research on the participating companies.
・Go to corporate websites and read them carefully to understand their management philosophies, business
introductions, employment information, etc.
・Check out news related to the companies via news websites, newspapers, magazines, etc.
【Online】
Prepare an environment with a stable Wi-Fi connection. Also, prepare a webcam, earphones, etc. in
advance so everything goes smoothly.

■ At the venue on the day of the briefing session

● Be aware that human resource personnel are watching, behave properly.
・Pay attention to your conduct and speech in the halls and bathrooms as well as the reception desk.
・If you are allowed to choose your own seat, create a positive impression by sitting as close to the front as
possible and asking questions without fail.
● Actively ask questions to resolve any issues that your company research could not provide answers to.
● Get a sense of the company atmosphere and the mood of the employees that cannot be understood from
websites or PR brochures.
【Online】
Make sure to log in before the company briefing starts

■ Things to note
● Something to write with
● Don't be late ⇒ Reach at least 10 minutes early
● Organizer/memo pad
● Set your mobile phone on silent mode. ⇒ Don’t cause
● Map to the venue
What to bring

a nuisance.
● Letter of invitation to the
● In addition to greeting the human resource personnel
briefing session
and executive officers, you should also greet people
● Company information materials
at the reception desk and other locations.
● If you have a question, first state your name and then Things to bring just in case
speak in a cheerful, clear fashion. When you receive ● Personal seal (inkan)
an answer, you should express your gratitude. ● Resume (just in case)
● You need not emphasize on it too much, but know how ● Copy of the application form
to conduct yourself and have good manners.

*For individual company briefing sessions, be sure to prepare yourself fully before the session because, in some
cases, the company conducts interviews, aptitude tests, written tests, etc., after the session.

【Online】
If you participate with your camera on, make sure your appearance is well-groomed.

Seminars (open seminars)

This type of seminar is held by companies and local government for students who are starting to job hunt and is not
related to selection. Open seminar schedules, content, and other details are released on individual company websites and
employment information websites.

Job hunting support Industry research

In order to improve job hunting skills, students can This t ype of open seminar is held to encourage an
experience and learn how to "analyze and evaluate understanding of the industry to which the hosting company
themselves" and "examine the company". This type of open belongs. The role of the industry, products handled, and
seminar is held at an earlier time, such as before the New services provided are introduced to enhance interest in the
Year. entire industry.

46
Application Documents
To fully convey your strengths
The application form (known as "entry sheet") and resume are the documents that help companies learn
about the traits and history of applicants. In addition, submitting application documents means an official
application for a recruitment screening to a company. Since there are more and more cases where you
submit documents online, make sure you know how to submit them to the companies you're applying

Applications
for. The format and content of the application form varies by company, but it is generally a combination
of basic information such as your contact details, information of your university, and an essay.

Contents of Entry sheet (application form)

■ Basic details

Briefing Sessions
This is essentially the same as the information on your resume.

Company
■ Composition
The questions included in application form will differ
according to the company. There are also many cases
in which the number of characters that can be used is
restricted to 200, 400, 800, etc., characters. You will be

Application documents
required to write between 90% and 100% of the maximum
character count.
PR

In describing your strengths, choose one strength and

describe that in detail. Be sure to talk about how that
strength makes you suitable for the job.
Use this section to talk about your academic achievements
at university, including the challenges you faced and what
you gained from the experience.
Describe your motivations for applying, and why you want
to work at this particular company. Explain what you can
contribute to the company.
List your licenses and qualifications. Use the formal titles
or descriptions. Include any qualifications attained in your
home country.

How to acquire and submit an application form

■ Contact from company

You will be contacted by the company that you have applied to via email or other ways to inform you of dates, ets.

■ Company website
Fill out a company's online application form or download the form from the company website.

■ Make full use of employment information websites

Entry sheets created online can be submitted to the company via the employment information website.

■ Distributed at Company Briefing Sessions

Distributed at Company Briefing Sessions and similar events.

■ Included with general materials provided by the company

Included in the information pack sent out by the company.
47
 How to write a resume

Your resume is one of the official application documents. Handwritten used to be required, but now increasingly
more companies require you to submit online. You should fill out your resume carefully and legibly if handwritten.
The basic rule is to write in a “desu-masu” style (the polite form). The “desu-masu” style expresses politeness and
softness, and is especially preferred in business situations because it is easy to read and gives a friendly impression.

Write the date of submission.

Write the date of mailing if
sending by post.

Write in hiragana if the

instruction is in hiragana.
Write in katakana if the
instruction is in katakana.

Attach a photograph of you

in a suit, taken at a photo
studio. Write the name of
your school, department, and
your full name on the back of
the photograph.

If you have your personal

seal, use a red ink pad and
affix your seal correctly.

Write your address

accurately. If you live in an
apartment/condominium, be
sure to include its name and
room number.

If you have any job history

prior to your study in Japan,
write it below your academic
history.

Use Arabic numerals.

48
 Applications
Write the official names of
licenses and
qualifications. Write down
any qualifications that you
acquired in your home

Briefing Sessions
country.

Company
It is important to indicate
your degree of interest in the
company and enthusiasm
about joining them.

Application documents
Write concisely without
going outside the designated
space. However, sentences
that are too short are also a
problem. It is a good idea to
create a draft so you can be
sure that letters fit with good
balance.

Write down in detail, what

is most appealing about
your personality and strong
points with the reasons and
background for each.
When writing about your
weakness, try to give a
positive impression showing
the efforts and learning with
specific episodes.

When you handwrite your resume and make a mistake, you need to rewrite the whole thing.
Do not use correction liquid. When you finish writing your resume, check it once again for any
missed items and make a copy of it before submitting.

49
 Notes on filling out application documents
❶ If you are submitting a handwritten application, be sure to make multiple copies for
creating drafts.
You cannot use correction liquid. Make a draft first and then a clean copy.
❷ When handwriting, fill out the form carefully and legibly.
Incorrect characters or missing syllables/characters are unacceptable. Even if you don't
have good handwriting, fill out the form carefully.
❸ Do not use an erasable pen when you handwrite your resume.
Since it's a formal document, avoid using a mechanical pen, pencil, or erasable pen.
❹ Avoid leaving blank spaces.
Use the space effectively so that you don't leave any blank space.
❺ Be sure to make a copy of the completed form.
You need a copy to check what you wrote before going to a seminar or interview.
❻ Write down the "school name/department/your name" on the back of the photograph to
be attached.
Photographs sometimes come off during handling of documents at a company. Also, it's
better to keep your digital ID photo as many companies now require online application.
❼ Have a person who is good at Japanese look over the completed form.
Use your universityʼs career center and make sure to have someone check to see if there
are any mistakes with your Japanese characters or expressions. It's easy to choose the
wrong kanji by mistake when typing on a computer, so you need to review your document
carefully.
❽ Submit the form early, not when a deadline is approaching.
Companies that go through the screening process in the order that documents are
submitted may not have enough time to go through them if they arrive just before
the deadline. In the case of online applications, you may find it difficult to submit the
documents due to high traffic, resulting in a failure to meet the deadline and being
excluded from the screening process.

About online submission

Paper submissions use to be the mainstream, but online submissions are more popular now.
Documents required vary by company.

● Online application form and resume

● Application form that also serves as
resume
● Paper-based application form and
resume

50
 About Essay

Some of the common questions asked in the essay are: "Reasons for applying" and "Self-PR," and
in the application form, "What I worked hard for in my schooling days."

① Reasons for applying for the job

Tell the employer why you wish to work for them, what type of work you would like to do, and how

Applications
you think you can contribute to the organization.

● In order to write reasons for applying for the job, it is important to do your research on the
Key industry (page 20) and the company (page 24).
points ● Under “Reasons for Applying” explain why you are keen to join the company.
● E xplain clearly that you have the skills required for the job and describe how you can
contribute to the organization, with reference to your particular strengths and attributes.

Briefing Sessions
■ How to structure your answer

Company
1 State why you want to work for the company (i.e. the main point)

2 Give reasons for this statement—include any relevant events or situations

Application documents
3 State how you would be useful to the company—describe your strengths and
attributes and how these would contribute to the organization

② Self-PR
Describe your personality, including your strengths and attributes, and how you would utilize these
in your job.

● Self-analysis is a good way to identify your strengths and attributes. ( →Self-analysis and
Evaluation, P15)
Key ● Rather than trying to describe all of your strengths, it is more effective to focus on just one
points and describe it in detail.
● Describe some situations where you demonstrated this strength.
● It is important to explain how you would utilize this particular strength in performing the job
you are applying for.

■ How to structure your answer

1 Nominate a single quality (i.e. the main point)

2 Describe one or more events or situations that illustrate this quality

3 Explain how you would utilize this particular quality in your job and/or how it
would contribute to the organization

51
 ③ Key academic achievements
Don’t just list your academic achievements—describe the challenges you faced along the way and
what you gained from the experience.

● Self-analysis is a good way to identify your key achievements at university.( → Self-analysis

and Evaluation P15)
● Talk about some of the events or situations that inform your educational challenges and
Key achievements.
points ● Describe what you gained from these experiences and how they contributed to your personal
or professional growth.
● Where possible, include numerical results or reports of your achievements.

■ How to structure your answer

1 Nominate one key achievement in your academic career (i.e. the main point)

2 List one or more events or situations that illustrate how you worked towards said
achievement

3 Describe what you gained from the experience and how it contributed to your
personal or professional growth

④ Common short-answer questions on the application form

Application forms that include blank spaces for applicants to draw pictures or paste photos have
become popular in recent years, particularly among organizations that are looking for new recruits
with the capacity to contribute from the outset.
Also, employers are starting to focus more on idea expression and conceptualization.
This suggests that employers are using the application form as a way to identify new recruits who
have the ability to demonstrate their competencies and have the capacity to contribute from the
outset. As you prepare your application forms, always keep in mind what it is that employers want
to see from their new recruits.

Application form example questions

● If you were a food, what would it be? Tell us in no more than 400 characters. (Food)
● W hat type of job are you looking for with us? How will you contribute to our
company? (Trading)
●W  hy do we need you? In your answer, describe one of the hardest challenges you
have faced in your academic career. (Machinery)
● W hat have you learned from your failures or disappointments thus far in life?
(Trading)
● Where is the best place you have been to in your life? Why did you like it? (Travel)
● If you had three million dollars to spend, how would you use it to contribute to
world peace? (Information and communications)

52
 From Screening
Tests and Job
Offers to Joining
a Company
Written Tests
It is necessary to confirm written test types
and prepare for them in advance 54

Interviews
Use your own words to express yourself 58

Job Offers to Joining a Company

Follow a plan until you join a company 65

Before Starting Work

Work environment in Japanese companies 66

53
Written Tests
It is necessary to confirm written test types and prepare for them in advance
Various types of written tests are held. Written tests are carried out to make sure that students have attained
a certain level of knowledge and academic skills, and to make sure that they have the thinking faculties,
decision-making capabilities, speed, processing abilities and accuracy, etc., required for the job. These
are used as reference materials during interviews to enable efficient selection process when there are many
applicants.
The written tests must be submitted in Japanese as a basic principle, so the ability to read and understand
Japanese is imperative.
It is recommended that you fully understand how written tests will be carried out and prepare for them by
checking at university career centers and reading the quarterly corporate reports, etc., of the companies you
have applied for.

Written Test Types

■ Aptitude Tests
Competency Aptitude Tests・・・These tests are carried out to understand your levels of basic academic skills,
basic knowledge and job aptitude, etc.
Personality Aptitude Tests・・・・These tests are carried out to understand your basic personality, behavioral
characteristics and job aptitude, etc.
General Aptitude Tests・・・・・・These tests involve both competency aptitude tests and personality aptitude tests.
Most companies require applicants to take the general aptitude tests.

Name of Test Companies Implementing Tests Topic Structures

SPI3 Recruit Management Solutions Verbal / Non-Verbal Personality Tests

CAB Mental arithmetic,regularity, instruction

SHL-Japan
table,coding, OPQ

GAB SHL-Japan Verbal, calculation, OPQ

Tamatebako
SHL-Japan Calculation, verbal, English, OPQ
web test Ⅲ
Nippon Omni-Management Association Verbal, mathematics,logic, English, general
SCOA
(NOMA) Research Institute, Inc. knowledge, personality

TG-WEB Humanage Verbal, calculation, English, Personality Tests

OPQ: Occupational Personality Questionnaires

■ General Knowledge Tests

The topics involved will cover a wide range of subjects, such as Japanese, mathematics, social studies, science,
English, sports and current affairs, etc.
These tests are carried out to determine if you possess basic academic skills and basic knowledge. It is necessary
to prepare for the tests by checking the news, etc., on a daily basis.

■ Compositions and Essays

These tests are carried out to understand the levels of logical thinking, viewpoints, creativity, information-gathering
abilities and other such aspects.
Time restrictions and character-count restrictions will be in effect, so the best way to handle the tests is to
complete them in a simple and easy-to-understand manner.
It is necessary to prepare by practicing written Japanese, etc., on a daily basis.

54
 Contents of the aptitude test
Aptitude tests consist of two types; Paper tests and Web tests carried out with the use of a personal
computer.
There are three places where tests may be taken: at home, at the company, and at test centers.
There are cases in which the levels of difficulty of aptitude tests vary depending on the place where
the test is taken, even though they are the same types of test.
It is generally said that the paper tests taken at companies are the easiest, and the web tests taken at
home are the most difficult.

Written Tests
Type Location How to take a test Applicable Tests Test Period
Aptitude tests that
are taken at your SPI3,WebCAB, From March 01 after
Web Tests At home convenience at tamatebako web the ban on company
home with the use of test Ⅲ,TG-WEB, etc. PR activities are lifted
personal computers.

Test Centers
Aptitude tests that
(Location: Test
are taken at places From March 01 after

Interviews
centers that SPI3,C-GAB,
Web Tests specified for each the ban on company
specialize in SCOA,TG-WEB, etc.
test with the use of PR activities are lifted
each type of
personal computers.
aptitude test)

Aptitude tests that are

taken at the company From June 01 after
office or at places SPI3,CAB,GAB, the ban on company
Paper Tests Companies
specified by the SCOA,TG-WEB, etc. screening activities

Joining a Company
company with the use are lifted

Job Offers to
of written test papers.

Preparing for Aptitude Tests

❶ Check out the aptitude tests given by the companies you intend to apply to
It is possible to check the results of different types of aptitude tests held by large and popular

Job Hunting Activities

after Graduating
companies with the use of the Quarterly Employment Journal and other books on preparing for
aptitude tests. For other companies, you can go through the reports written by alumni in the past,
which are archived by the career centers in the school you attend.
❷ Understand the types of aptitude test questions and methods of solving them
It is necessary to understand the trends of the questions likely to be included in all types of tests, as
well as the methods for answering the questions as swiftly as possible. It is important to accustom
yourself to as many different types of topics as possible by checking out the books on preparing for
Before Starting Work

aptitude tests available in bookstores, and the test samples available free of charge on the Internet.
❸ Accustom yourself to the time restrictions on aptitude tests
The most difficult part of aptitude tests is answering a large number of questions within a short
period of time. It is necessary to answer all questions as efficiently as possible, so it is therefore
important to remain aware of the time restrictions while practicing and set yourself targets for
answering the questions within the time allotted for the actual tests.

The fact that aptitude tests must be taken in the Japanese language causes problems for
many international students. There are also small to medium-sized companies, etc., that do
not set aptitude tests. This means that searching for a company that does not require aptitude
tests is one way of avoiding them for students who seriously have trouble taking them.

55
 What is SPI3?
The aptitude test most commonly used by companies in Japan is SPI3.
SPI3 is a test developed by Recruit Management Solutions Co.,Ltd.
The questions included in the SPI3 test are not very difficult, but speed and accuracy are required, so
it is recommended that you study in advance the trends of the questions likely to be included and the
methods for answering them as efficiently as possible.

■ SPI3 Types
There are four types of SPI3 tests available that depend on the format and venue.
Implementation Method Format Test Location Topic Structure, P50

Company Verbal (30 minutes) / Non-Verbal (40 minutes)

Paper testing Paper
meetings rooms Personality Tests (40 minutes)

Dedicated Verbal / Non-Verbal (35 minutes)

Test Center Web
venue Personality Tests (30 minutes)

Verbal / Non-Verbal (35 minutes)

Web Testing Web At home, etc.
Personality Tests (30 minutes)

Company Verbal / Non-Verbal (35 minutes)

In-house CBT Web
meetings rooms Personality Tests (30 minutes)
※Once you take the test, the result can be submitted by the test center to as many companies as you want. You can also take the test again.
(Your score will only be visible to the companies you submit it to, and you won't be aware of the results)

Fields Tested with SPI3

Test Types Fields Fields Tested and Topic Genres

Relationship between words, use of phrases, rearranging sentences,
Verbal
filling in blanks, correct use of idiomatic phrases, rearranging clausal
proficiency phrases, reading and understanding long sentences, etc.
Competency
Aptitude Reasoning, number of potential outcomes, probability, set theories,
Tests Non-verbal calculation of profits and losses, speed calculations, understanding
proficiency charts and tables, price adjustment, price discounts, percentage
calculations, payment by installment, etc.
Personality Testing behavioral qualities, motivational qualities, emotional qualities
characteristics and social strengths through to personality characteristics
Personality
Work Measures ease of adapting to work based on points scored for
Aptitude Adaptability personality and basic skills
Tests
Organizational
Measures ease of adapting to organizational customs
Adaptability

Points of note for SPI3

❶ Obtain a clear understanding of the topic patterns.
❷ There are many questions included, so allocate your time carefully.
❸ Check the questions and answers to long sentences topics before reading the sentences.
❹ Answer all questions without leaving any unanswered even if you don’t know the correct answers.
❺ Make sure you do not make any mistakes for the questions involving addition, subtraction,
multiplication and division.

56
 Sample questions

● Language course (Japanese)

(1) Choose the most suitable proverb for the meaning of the following sentence.
If you treat others well, eventually you will be rewarded.
① Reward from a previous life   ② All things come to those who wait   ③ Pardon makes offenders
④ The good you do for others is good for yourself   ⑤ What goes around, comes around

(2) Choose the item with the closest meaning to the underlined part of the example sentence.

Written Tests
(Example) I cannot push myself too hard
① Effective outlook ② Effective medicine ③ Ask the teacher ④ Generous ⑤ Listen to music

(3) Choose the word with same relationship as that of the 2 words shown in the example.
(Example) Interference: Non-interference
Extension:      ① Interruption ② Suspension ③ Short-term ④ Curtailment ⑤ Reduction
(4) Choose the most suitable sentence that shows the meaning of the following words.
(Example) Look after
① Be into..., crazy about...   ② Miserable   ③ Show favoritism
④ Be visible clearly   ⑤ Be able to look over

Interviews
[Answers] (1)→④ The good you do others is good for yourself (2)→① Effective outlook (3)→⑤ Reduction (4)→③ Show favoritism

● Non-language course
(1) Mr. A commutes to work from his house by car. At a speed of 50 km on the way there and 60 km on the way back,
the return journey takes 15 minutes less. How many kilometers away is his workplace from his house?
① 55 km   ② 60 km   ③ 65 km   ④ 70 km   ⑤ 75 km

(2) There is 200 g of a 3 % saline solution and 300 g of a 4 % saline solution.

Joining a Company
If these two saline solutions are mixed together, what percentage is the salinity?

Job Offers to
① 2.6 %   ② 3.6 %   ③ 4.6 %   ④ 5.6 %   ⑤ 6.6 %

(3) Admission to a zoo was 800 yen for adults and 500 yen for children. The total admission fees collected for one day was
79,700 yen and the number of visitors was 130. Which of the following was the number of children admitted on this day?
① 80 children   ② 81 children   ③ 82 children   ④ 83 children   ⑤ 84 children

(4) When the following statements are true, which of the below is certain?
A. If you like Spring, you like tennis.   B. If you like winter, you like skiing.
C. If you like studying, you like Spring.
① If you like Spring, you like studying.   ② If you like winter, you like studying.

Job Hunting Activities

③ If you don't like skiing, you don't like Spring.   ④ If you like studying, you like tennis.

after Graduating
⑤ If you don't like Spring, you don't like tennis.
[Answers] (1)→⑤ 75 km. (2)→② 3.6%. (3)→② 81 children (4)→④ If you like studying, you like tennis.

● General knowledge
(1) Preliminary tremors causing seismic waves are known as P-waves,
but what are the seismic waves causing principal shocks known as? Choose from the following options.
① S-wave   ② L-wave   ③ N-wave   ④ EW-wave   ⑤ V-wave
Before Starting Work

(2) What are the 3 musical elements? Choose from the following options.
① Rhythm, melody, harmony   ② Beauty, joy and grandiosity   ③ Strength, length and melody  
④ Force, height and tone   ⑤ Length, size and tone

(3) Of the administrative divisions in Japan, the one with the largest area is Hokkaido,
but which prefecture has the second largest surface area? Choose from the following options.
① Akita prefecture   ② Iwate prefecture   ③ Aomori prefecture  
④ Nagano prefecture   ⑤ Gifu prefecture

(4) On April 4th, 2022, Tokyo Stock Exchange, Inc. restructured its stock market into three new market segments. Two of
the three are Standard Market and Growth Market. What is another market? Choose one from below.
① Premier Market   ② Mothers Market   ③ Priority Market  
④ JASDAQ Market   ⑤ Prime Market
[Answers] (1)→① S-wave. (2)→④ Force, height and tone. (3)→② Iwate prefecture. (4)→⑤ Prime Market

57
Interviews
Use your own words to express yourself
Interviews are the most important part of the screening process. Use the self-analysis, industry and
company research you have conducted as a base to prepare yourself to communicate in your own
words to the interviewer why you are applying for the job, what your strengths are, and what views
you have.

Types of interviews
In Japan, the interview and examination process generally takes place over two separate sessions.This
allows a number of different observers to evaluate the applicant’s behavior and thought processes at
different times, in order to determine whether the applicant is a suitable recruitment target.
In addition, some companies conduct interviews online. There are many different types of interviews,
but here, we will look at the most common interview formats: group discussion, group interview,
one-on-one interview and online interview.

① Group discussion

A group discussion involves four to six applicants

discussing a topic nominated by the employer. The ■ Format
interviewers observe the discussion and rate the Applicants: multiple groups of
applicants objectively. The aim is to determine how well four to six people
each applicant functions as part of a group. Interviewers: multiple
Timing: first interview
Note: Varies between employers
■ Procedure

1 Self-introduction

2 Allocation of roles Student Student

Main roles are: coordinator, secretary, timekeeper, presenter

3 Discussion
Student Student

4 Presentation
Student Student

Interviewer
■ Important
・Take care with your choice of words during the discussion. Be careful with the language you use
during discussions (P38: Job Hunting Manners ① Manners to Make a Good Impression ① ).
・Try to avoid changing your opinion too often, or conversely being stubborn and trying to force your
opinion upon others.
・Allocate the time carefully.
・Appearing too negative or too forceful during allocation of roles and during the discussion can count
against you.
・Group discussion is not a debate. The idea is to work together to create consensus within the group.

58
② Group interview

Group interviews are often used when dealing with a

large number of applicants, as a way of eliminating ■ Format
underperforming applicants and identifying those suitable Applicants: two to six people
for a one-on-one interview. In a group interview, there is Interviewers: multiple
usually less time available to each applicant to respond Timing: first and second interview
to the interviewer. Also, unlike the one-on-one interview, Note: Varies between employers
applicants in a group interview are effectively competing
with each other to progress to the next stage.

Written Tests
■ Procedure
The interviewer asks a set of questions based on the
application forms and resumes. The same questions are
asked to each applicant in turn.
Student Student Student
■ Important
・Remember: first impressions are very important!
・Speak clearly and confidently. Do not mumble your words.
・S ince one person only has a short amount of time, prepare

Interviews
answers to common questions that are short and to the point.
・Prepare a spoken description of your strengths and
attributes that lasts for about one minute.
・Be polite and respectful while other candidates are speaking. Interviewer Interviewer

Joining a Company
③ One-on-one interview

Job Offers to
Compared to a group interview, the one-on-one interview
allows the interviewer more time to directly assess your ■ Format
strengths and personal characteristics. Applicants: one
The interviewer will analyze your responses and examine Interviewers: multiple
your attitude and posture, your expression, and your use Timing: first, second, and final interviews
of language. Note: Varies between employers
■ Procedure

Job Hunting Activities

after Graduating
The interviewer prepares questions based on the
application form and resume. Firstly, you will be asked
about information supplied on your application form and
resume. Often, the interviewer will want to hear further
details or explanations.
Student
■ Important
・Re-read your application form and resume to make sure
you are familiar with everything you have written.
・Think back over the responses you have given in previous
Before Starting Work

interviews.
・Be prepared to talk about your strengths and the skills
you can contribute to the organization.
・Be prepared for questions about whether you are genuine Interviewer Interviewer Interviewer
about wanting a job at the company.
・Make sure you are neat and focused.

59
 Interview process (Face-to-face)

Never be late. Be sure to arrive at the venue 15 minutes before the set time

1 Arrival
at the venue
so that you can be calm for the interview. Be sure to switch off your mobile
phone before going into the building. In winter, take off your coat before
going inside.

You should assume that the interview starts at reception. At the reception
desk, be sure to clearly state the name of your school, your name, and that you

2 Reception have come for the interview. Do not forget to thank the person who directs
you to your destination, and be sure to lightly bow to any company employees
you pass along the way.

Wait quietly until you are called in for the interview. Put your belongings at

3 Waiting room
your feet rather than on the table. Avoid talking to other students or going
in and out of the waiting room frequently, even if you have to wait for a long
time.

Knock on the door two or three times. When you are told to come in, you
should say "Excuse me" and enter the room. Be sure to open and close the door

4 Entering the quietly. After entering the room, politely bow once to the interviewer(s) and
interview room walk to the side of the prepared seat, then state your school name, department,
and your name, in a cheerf ul man ner, and politely bow again. W hen the
interviewer asks you to sit down, say "Thank you" and sit down.

Be sure to place your bag at your feet and sit with good posture without leaning
against the back of the chair. Use polite and accurate Japanese, answer questions

5 During the
interview
concisely and in a manner that is easy to understand, while making eye contact
with the interviewer. In the case of a group interview, you should pay attention
to other students when they are being asked questions.

When the inter view is f inished, stand up and thank the inter viewer(s) for

6
taking the time to interview you. Walk to the door, politely bow again, and
Leaving the room say "Goodbye." Close the door quietly as you leave the room.
In winter, do not put your coat back on until you are about to leave through
the main entrance. You may also switch your mobile phone back on.

Bowing etiquette and posture

■ Full bow ■ Half bow ■ Seated posture

This is the standard form of Used to acknowledge a How to sit with good posture
bowing in Japan, used to colleague, for example ・Sit tall—stretch your back out
make a request or express when passing in the ・Do not use the backrest
appreciation. corridor ・Sit forward in your seat
Angle = 30° Angle = 15°
Eyes fixed on the ground Eyes fixed on the ground
about one meter away about three meters away Placement of hands and feet
・Women:
15°
30° Keep legs together and
place hands on the knees
・Men: Have legs slightly apart,
form a gentle fist with your hands
and rest on thighs
・Try to keep your hands and
feet still during the interview
1m 3m

60
 Remote interview
There are two types of remote interviews: online interview and video interview

Online interview
Online interview is conducted using a web interview system or web conferencing system. The system used
for the interview varies from company to company.

Written Tests
Check in advance
□ Is your internet connection stable to prevent image distortion, voice delay, and line breaks?
□ Are there unnecessary things in the background such as posters or laundry?
□ Is the room bright enough to make a good impression? When the room is dark, your expression
can also look dark.
□ Make sure there are no wrinkles in your suit.
□ Is the camera positioned so that the upper body can be seen?

Interviews
□ Is the microphone volume set to the right level?
□ Is there no unnecessary sound from your surroundings such as the ring tone of a smartphone?
□ Do not set an inappropriate nickname or animation character for your account name and profile
image on the interview software, as they are also displayed on the company's side.
※ It is recommended to ask your friends and family to practice with you in advance.

<Good example> <Bad example>

Joining a Company
Job Offers to
Job Hunting Activities
after Graduating
Background…C lean and avoid showing anything Background…Various distractions in the background.
unnecessary. Brightness…D ark.The expression is not clear,
Brightness…B right, your facial expression can be doesn't look motivated.
seen clearly, look motivated. Sound…Lots of noise, your voice cannot be heard
Sound…Quiet, your voice can be heard clearly. clearly.
Before Starting Work

■ Equipment
・ Computers, smartphones, and tablets
 ou can use any of them, but we recommend using a computer because the screen is big
Y
and it can be more stable to place. If you use a smartphone or a tablet, fix it to prevent
screen shaking.
・ Camera
If your device doesn't have a camera, you'll need an external webcam.
・ Earphones, microphones
 arphones with microphones make it easier to hear the other per son's voice and
E
communicate your own voice clearly.

61
 Interview process (Online)

Entering Log in 5 minutes before the interview and prepare to enter the room so you can deal
room with any connection troubles.

・Position the camera in the same position as your eyes, and look at the camera when
you speak.
During ・Try to speak louder than usual.
Interview
・To make it easier for your reactions and expressions to be communicated to them,
make your gestures and nod movements larger.

【How to deal with problems】

If you have trouble with your network during an online interview, don't panic and contact the company.
If you have trouble hearing the interviewer's voice or stopping the video, use the chat function or make a
phone call.

Leaving When the interview is over, say thank you and bow. You should disconnect yourself
room after the interviewer disconnects.

Troubleshooting
■ Your computer broke down
You can also participate from your smartphone or tablet. Let's prepare to be able to communicate on a
spare device in advance.

■ Cannot access the interview link the company provided

Make sure the URL or passcode is correct, and try again. You need to update to the latest version before
using the app.

Video interview
Video interviews are often used for the first interview. In response to questions from companies, such as
"self-promotion," "what I focused on when I was a student," and "reasons for applying," you submit a 1 - 2
minutes video recording of yourself. You are usually able to record this multiple times until you are satisfied
with the result. Ever for video interviews, you should dress and present yourself as you would for a typical
job interview. Communication and time management skills are also evaluated. For example, whether the
applicant is able to speak clearly about the topic and express themselves concisely within the appropriate
time frame.

62
 Responding to questions

The questions at interviews are often the same as the questions on the
application form or resume. The interviewer may ask questions while Think about what you're
reading from your application form or resume. Your answers must be going to talk about in
consistent with the information provided in them. For this reason, it is an online interview. The
important to read through your application form and resume before you interviewers will tell if
come for the interview. you are reading a note.

Written Tests
The interviewer may also ask for your background information to
supplement the details provided in your job application. Prior to the
interview, you should prepare a number of answers to potential questions
that you are likely to encounter.
You should also make sure that you have done your self-analysis, industry
and company research so that you are equipped to answer any other
questions that the interviewer may ask. Remember that you only have
a short time to promote yourself to the interview panel. For maximum
impact, try to keep your answers concise and to the point.
Human Resources

Interviews
(Recruitment) A

Typical interview questions

● Have you ever used our products? What did you think of it/them?

Joining a Company
● How would you feel if we weren't able to give you a job in your preferred position/department?

Job Offers to
● What are your expectations of our company/your job?
● Why did you decide to study in Japan? Why do you want to work for a Japanese company?
● How long do you plan to stay/work in Japan?
● Have you had any progress with your other job applications?

[Preparing for the interview]

Job Hunting Activities

■ Practicing on your own

after Graduating
Take a video of yourself answering a question, and review it.
Watch the video and observe your eye contact, clarity of speech and use of language.
■ How to practice with help from others
Ask a friend or the university career counselor to act as an interviewer in a mock
interview situation.
You can feel the same nervousness as the real interview, and you can get advice on
what was good and what should be improved.
Before Starting Work

In the interview, the interviewer Make sure you understand the

checks not only the content of questions you are asked and
your answers but also whether can answer them in Japanese.
or not you fit into the company's If you answer politely, the
atmosphere as well as your inte r v i ewe r w ill fe e l your
personality and character. sincerity through your attitude.

Human Resources Human Resources

(Recruitment) B (Recruitment) C

63
COLUMN ❺

Tips for the Second Half of Your Job Hunting Process

In the second half of your job search, there will be many times when you will be happy and then
disappointed regarding job offers. Here we will look at what you should do when you receive multiple
job offers and what you should do if you still haven’t received any.

If you have received job offers from two or more companies

There are times when applicants will receive two or more job offers from different companies. In this case,
you must turn down the job offers from companies that you will not enter.
When turning down job offers, please be aware of the following points.
❶ Turn down job offers over the telephone, not via e-mail
Regardless of how many times you have been selected to receive job offers, you will not convey
your sincerity by simply turning down a job offer via an e-mail.
Please do your best to refuse job offers over the telephone.
❷ It is ok not to tell other companies which company you have decided to work for
When turning down a job offer, there are times when the company representative you are
speaking with will ask you which company you chose to enter. You are not obligated to provide
them with the name of the company that you will work for.
❸W  hen you turn down a job offer and run into problems such as being held at a company for
many hours
When turning down a job offer, companies may request that you come to their location and
explain to them about the situation.
When doing so, there are times when you will be held up for many hours at the company and
pressured to sign a letter of acceptance in order to persuade you to change your mind. In such
situations, quickly consult with your university’s career center or career services division. For
example, even if you sign a letter of acceptance or written oath, they are not legally binding. If
you feel that you are being forced to change your mind about the offer, deal with the situation in
a calm manner.
Companies take time and effort to provide applicants with job offers. Therefore, there is a strong trend
among companies for wanting students which they provided with job offers to enter their companies.
Try to be sincere with companies so that they agree with your decision.

In case you are not able to receive a job offer

-Job hunting after companies start providing official job offers-
Sometimes companies continue with hiring activities until March because they are unable to f ill
all positions and this means that you still have a chance to be selected by a company from October
onwards. There are many cases where small-to-mid-sized companies in particular start selections after
the selection peak period to avoid overlapping with employment periods of large companies. Apply
early to companies that you are interested in. If you are not able to receive a job offer by October, check
the employment information of companies that hire in the fall or throughout the year. You can also
consider registering yourself with an employment agency and a temporary agency.
To enter a company on April 1st, it is necessary to complete all change in residence status procedures
by the end of January. So try to obtain a job offer before that time so that you can apply for change in
residence status.

64
Job Offers to Joining a Company
Follow a plan until you join a company
Until you receive a job offer from a company that you want to join, you should continue in your job hunting
activities. You should understand the flow of the process from receiving a job offer to entering a company, and
follow your job hunting plan.

Written Tests
Flow of the process from receiving a job offer to entering a company

After the final screening process, a job offer is issued by the company notifying
the applicant that it would like to hire him/her. In many cases, the first

1 Job offer
notification is by telephone, and then a "formal offer letter" is sent. If you have
already accepted a job offer from another company or you have no intention of
entering the company in question, you should be honest and decline the offer as
soon as possible.

Interviews
After receiving a job offer, you will be asked to submit a document confirming
your intent to join the company. This document is called a "Pledge" or
"Acknowledgement". Until you submit these documents, you're in a provisional
job offer, not an official job offer. Companies that host a social gathering may
Submitting a ask you to sign/affix your seal on the document at the gathering and it becomes

2 written pledge and

acknowledgment
an official offer on the spot. Be careful not to miss the deadline if you are
mailing the document, which may cause the job offer to be canceled. * This

Joining a Company
"Pledge" or "Acknowledgement" is not legally binding, so you can continue

Job Offers to
your job hunting even after submitting the document. Be sure to check the hiring
schedule of each of the companies that you have chosen, so that you don't have
to repeatedly decline job offers more than necessary.

In the end, you will decide on one company to join. If you have multiple job
offers, you should consult with the career center of your university, your

3 Deciding to join
a company
professors, your family members, etc., to decide which company to join as soon
as possible. If you delay your declining of job offers, you not only impact the

Job Hunting Activities

range of possible employment of other students, but you may also adversely

after Graduating
impact the hiring of international students that come after you.

In order to be employed by a Japanese company, it is necessary to change your

Changing your
4
resident visa status from "Student" to a status that allows you to work. You
status of should start preparing for this early so that you will be able to complete the
residence process before the day of joining the company. * See the next chapter for details.

5
Some companies ask you to participate in a social gathering, job offer ceremony,
Before Starting Work

Joining or training before joining the company. Be sure to check the schedules of such
a company
events.

65
Before Starting Work
Work environment in Japanese companies
To ensure the same working conditions as a Japanese national laborer, the same labor-related laws also apply
to non-Japanese nationals working in Japan.
At the same time, duties to enter and pay taxes towards insurance systems such as Roudou Hoken (labor
insurance) or Shakai Hoken (social healthcare) are obligatory.

Working Conditions

In principle, non-Japanese laborers in Japan are assured of the same working conditions as
Japanese laborers, including salary, working hours, retirement, and dismissal.

❶ Equal treatment
An employer (companies, etc.) shall not engage in discriminatory treatment for working
conditions based on the nationality of the laborer.
❷ Specifying work conditions
An employer shall specifically state in writing the contract period, place of work, working
hours, and other conditions upon establishing a work contract.
❸ Remuneration
An employer shall set the salary and currency, and pay that amount to the laborer directly
at least once per month.
Also, regardless of nationality and gender, an employer cannot employ a person below the
minimum salary.
Moreover, taxes and insurance payment shall generally be deducted before the salary is
given to the laborer.
❹ Working hours, holidays, and leave
Working hours shall be up to 8 hours per day and up to 40 hours per week (however,
exceptions exist depending on the structure of the industry or office).
There are companies with varied working hours based on certain needs (working hours
based on week, month, or annual basis or flex time).
❺ Safety and health
An employer must work towards the prevention of work-related injuries, improving work
environment and conditions, as well as conduct safety and health education and health
checks for laborers in order to ascertain the safety and health of laborers.

Shakai Hoken (social insurance) system

In principle, non-Japanese nationals are required to enter national insurance systems such as
Roudou Hoken (labor insurance) and Shakai Hoken (social insurance) if they are working in Japan.
❶ Workers' accident compensation insurance
Insurance benefits for injuries, illnesses, disabilities, or death due to job-related causes or
during the commute to work.
Premiums shall be borne by the employer.
❷ Unemployment insurance
Benefits for laborers in the event of loss of employment to provide for basic needs in order
to facilitate reemployment.
66
❸ Health insurance
Lump-sum payments are paid to the insured to provide for basic needs of laborers and
their families to cover medical expenses for sickness or injuries out of the workplace,
childbirth, or death.
Premiums shall be borne by the employer and the insured equally.
❹ Welfare annuity insurance
Insurance benefits for old age, disability, or death of the laborer.
Premiums shall be borne by the employer and the insured equally.
Non-Japanese laborers who have enrolled in welfare annuity insurance for 6 months or

Written Tests
more are entitled to claim a Lump-Sum Withdrawal Payment within 2 years of returning to
his or her home country.

Taxation

Taxes imposed are the national "Income Tax" and the local "Municipal Tax".
The employer shall deduct (withhold) these taxes from the laborer's salary.
Moreover, non-Japanese laborers must settle tax obligations (unpaid taxes, etc.) for the year

Interviews
before returning to their home country.

❶ Income Tax
Tax rates are imposed based on annual income between January and December, regardless
of nationality.
Income tax shall be deducted from monthly salary based on estimated annual gross
income.
Proper tax amounts shall be adjusted at the end of the year (year-end adjustment).

Joining a Company
Job Offers to
❷ Municipal Tax
Taxes imposed by the local government of the region the laborer is registered under as of
January 1 every year, regardless of nationality.
Tax amounts differ based on the previous year's income, the number of dependents, and
other factors.

Welfare Program

Job Hunting Activities

after Graduating
Welfare programs refer to various systems, facilities, services, and more provided by the
company to the employee and his or her family, in addition to salary.
Companies are legally obligated to pay into Shakai Hoken and Roudou Hoken as a part
of this program, but there are other company-based benefits aimed to increase employee
motivation.

❶ Housing: Rent subsidy, bachelor dorms, company housing, property accumulation

Before Starting Work

savings, etc
❷ Health and Leisure: Management of hospitals, clinics, exercise spots, rest homes, and
other facilities, health consultations, counseling, support for cultural and physical
activities
❸ Other: Congratulatory and condolences money, provision of uniform and working
clothes
Lately, various welfare programs have started using point systems, and more companies
have started to adopt a "cafeteria plan" where you can select the predefined benefit
services according to your needs using your points provided by companies.

67
The Voice of Former
International Students The story of experienced job-seekers regarding the
challenges and what they should have done when job
hunting in Japan.

I regret not doing enough company research. Rather than trying to look into as
many companies as possible, I felt that I could have worked more efficiently
by doing company research and understanding more about international
student employment at the same time.
Mongolian (Female)

Compared to Japanese students, I received a job offer late. I think it wouldn't

have been that late if I had done self-analysis and industry research in my
junior year, narrowed down the industry to a certain extent, and participated
in internships and briefing sessions.
Vietnamese (Male)

I wish I had prepared for SPI test early on. All the companies I applied
for implemented SPI, so I thought it was important to take a proper
action early on.
Korean (Female)

I had a hard time preparing my resume. I think it's better to prepare early
and have your teacher or Japanese friend check it before you submit it. Also,
you should practice Japanese pronunciation and interview manners before
the interview.
Chinese (Female)

I should have prepared for the online interview earlier. Since I didn't
have earphones, I sometimes couldn't catch what the interviewer said. I
also wondered if I should look at the screen or the camera.
Taiwanese (Female)

The questions I was asked in the each interview were almost the same,
so it would have been better to prepare what to answer in advance.
Because Japanese is not my mother tongue, sometimes answers did not
come out immediately.
Russian (Male)

68
Changing Your
Status of Residence
Application for Change of
Status of Residence
Changing from "Student" to a visa allowing you to work 70

Engineer / Specialist in Humanities /

International Services
71

Designated Activities
74

Job Hunting Activities

after Graduating
75

Specified Skilled Worker

76

69
Application for Change of
Status of Residence
Changing from "College Student" to a visa allowing you to work
In order to work in Japan, international students are required to change their status of residence from "College
Student" to a status of residence that allows them to work.

Types of status of residence allowing work

■ Those which allow work with restrictions regarding job type, industry, and work content
Highly Skilled Professional, Business Manager, Legal/Accounting Services, Medical Services,
Researcher, Instructor, Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services, Nursing Care,
Specified Skilled Worker, etc.
- The Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services status accounted for approximately 90% of the
residence statuses held by international students that changed their residence status for the purpose of working in
Japan in Reiwa 1,(2023).

Points to note when applying for a change of status of residence

❶ Prepare the required documentation as early as possible.
There are certain documents that must be prepared by recruiting companies, and it is
recommended that these are gathered as early as possible.

❷ The screening process takes between one to three months from the time of application,
so applications must be sent in as early as possible.
Application acceptance begins in January as a basic principle (For Specified Skilled Worker,
December at all bureau locations; for other statuses of residence, e.g., usually December at the
Tokyo Regional Immigration Bureau and the Osaka Regional Immigration Bureau) so that new
graduates can begin work in April. Applications must be submitted again if any documents are
insufficient, which raises the possibility of the process not being completed in time for starting
work, so they must be prepared as early as possible.

❸ Applications must be submitted by the person in question as a basic principle.

If the applicant is not able to apply in person, it is possible for an intermediary who has given
a notification of intermediary to the head of the Regional Immigration Bureau to submit the
application.

❹ It is possible to reapply as a basic principle in the event of an application being rejected.

Applicants must have an appropriate and valid period of stay remaining. Reapplications will not be
authorized unless the reason for the application being rejected is improved.
For more information, see "Guidelines for Permission for Change of Status of
Residence and Extension of Period of Stay "(available in multiple languages).
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/publications/materials/nyuukokukanri07_00058.html

Websites containing the procedures necessary for changing the status of residence
■ Immigration Services Agency ■ Tokyo Employment Service Center for Foreigners
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/ https://jsite.mhlw.go.jp/tokyo-foreigner/

70
Engineer / Specialist in Humanities /
International Services

Types of status of residence international students change to after getting a job

Application for Change of

Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services

Status of Residence
Activities Activities to engage in services, which require skills or knowledge pertinent to physical
science, engineering or other natural science fields, or to engage in services, which
require knowledge pertinent to jurisprudence, economics, sociology or other human
science fields, or to engage in services which require understanding of and sensitivity
to foreign cultures, based on a contract with a public or private organization in Japan.

Main jobs and Management, finance, general affairs, legal affairs, planning, product development,
job types design, marketing, advertising, public relations, interpretation, translation, language

Specialist in Humanities /
instruction, production technology, research and development, engineering ,

International Services
programming, architectural design, system administration, etc.

Engineer /
Requirements ❶ Majored in the industry field of the job you are pursuing, gained necessary, job-related
and criteria knowledge from and graduated from university, or have received equivalent education.
Or, complete special training at a vocational school (only in cases coming under the
necessary completion requirements as set out by the Minister of Justice). Or, acquire a
decent knowledge of the industry you want to enter based on 10 years or more of business
experience (includes time spent majoring in subjects related to the aforementioned
knowledge at a technical college, high school, second half of secondary school, or
specialty course at a vocational school).

Specified Skilled Worker

In cases in which the applicant is to engage in work where skills and knowledge related to
information processing are required, the applicant is not required to satisfy the requirements
as set out by the Minister of Justice as long as he/she has passed the specified
examination on information processing skills or has obtained certification as set out by the
Minister of Justice for information processing skills.
❷ In cases the applicant is to engage in work that requires understanding of and sensitivity
to foreign cultures, the applicant must have at least three years of work experience in
translation, interpretation, language instruction, public relations, advertising, overseas
transactions, clothing or interior design, product development, etc. In cases where the
applicant is to engage in work such as translation, interpretation, or language instruction,
no work experience is required if the applicant has graduated from a university.

Designated Activities
❸ The applicant must receive no less compensation than a Japanese national would
receive for comparable work.

Period of Stay 5 years, 3 years, 1 year, or 3 months (Visa extension is applicable.)

Subjects majored in at university or specialized training college should be related to knowledge

and skills required for the work you intend to engage in. (However, this is not as strictly
considered for those who have completed a university, technical college, or a department
of postsecondary course in a specialized training college that has been accredited by the
Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology as stipulated in Article 2
of the "Regulations concerning the accreditation of Program for Enhancing Employment of
International Students in postsecondary courses in specialized training colleges (Ministry of
Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Public Notice No.53 of 2023).")
- University graduates can engage in translation from or into their native language, interpretation, and/or language instruction
regardless of university major.
- In regards to computer technology related work, persons who pass an information processing skills examination set by the
Minister of Justice or obtain certification in the field can engage in such work regardless of what their major was at university or
vocational school or whether they graduated.

71
 Requirements for changing the status of residence

Four points pertaining to the screening process for changing of the status of residence are as follows:
❶ Applicant’s academic background (major, contents of research, etc.) and other background
information indicating the possession of the required skills and knowledge, etc.
❷ Skills and knowledge, etc., possessed by the applicant being useful for the job description.
❸ Treatment of the applicant (remuneration) being acceptable.
❹ The scale and business results of the recruiting company indicating stability and continuity, and
being able to provide the applicant with the opportunity to perform the necessary duties.

Overseas Students Companies

Satisfying
Required Criteria
・Academic Background ・Stability and continuity
・Major, Contents of Skills and knowledge, ・Same remuneration as
Research etc., possessed by Japanese employees
・Work Experience ・Possible to provide the
the applicant being applicant with the
(Practical Experience)
useful for the job opportunity to perform the
necessary duties

Preparing Required Documents

Since the documentation required is different depending on the institution at which you are to be
employed, check with the company you will work for which category applies to you.

Category 1 Category 2 Category 3 Category 4

❶C  ompany listed on any of Japan’s stock ❶ Organizations Organizations
Organizations
exchanges or individuals for or individuals
or individuals
❷M  utual company involved in the insurance which the withheld (excluding those
not covered by
industry income tax sum listed in category 2)
Categories 1 to 3
❸N  ational or regional organization run by listed on the total that have submitted
Japan or an overseas nation withholding record statements
❹ Independent administrative institution of employment of earnings in
❺S  pecial corporation or licensed corporation income included withholding tax
❻P  ublic service corporation authorized by a in statements of records or other
national or regional public organization in earnings or other statutory tax reports
Japan statutory tax reports for employees for
❼P  ublic corporation listed in Appendix #1 of for the previous year the previous year
the Corporation Tax Act is 10 million yen or
❽A  company is applicable for the items (b) more
or (c) in the middle column of the special ❷ Organizations
addition section in the table in Article 1, which have
Paragraph 1 of the Ministerial Ordinance obtained approval
on Highly Skilled Professional (innovation for application of
creating company) residence through
❾ S mall-to-mid-sized companies that meet the online residence
certain requirements ＊ application system
*Those recognized by the direc tor of the
Prefectural Labor Bureau as a ‘Youth Yell
Company’ under the ‘Youth Yell Recognition
Program’ instituted by the Ministry of Health,
Labour and Welfare (As of January 2020)

Documentation required(See page 73 for the details of ❶ to )

Category
❶ ❷ ❸ ❹ ❺ ❻ ❼ ❽ ❾

Category1 ● ● ● ●

Category2 ● ● ● ●

Category3 ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Category4 ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

72
❶ Application for change of status of residence (with photograph of 4cm tall and 3cm wide)
❷ Passport and Resident Card (including Alien Registration Cards, which are considered to be
Resident Cards)
❸ D ocumentation providing evidence of the company’s eligibility for any of the categories
mentioned previously on page 72
Category 1: Quarterly report or documentation providing evidence of the company being listed
on any of Japan’s stock exchanges (copy)
Documentation providing evidence that the establishment of the company was authorized by a

Application for Change of

competent authority (copy)

Status of Residence
Documentation certifying that the company is applicable for the items (b) or (c), in the middle
column of the special addition section in the table in Article 1, Paragraph 1 of the Ministerial
Ordinance on Highly Skilled Professional (innovation creating company) (Example; A copy of the
notice of decision for grant of subsidy)
Documentation that certifies that the company satisfies certain conditions as above (Example;
copies of certificates)
Category 2: Documentation that certifies that the use of the online residence application has
been approved (Example; e-mail notification of approval regarding an application for permission
to use)

Specialist in Humanities /
Category 2 and Category 3: Statements of earnings in withholding tax records or other statutory

International Services
tax reports for employees for the previous year (copy affixed with seal of receipt)

Engineer /
❹ Documentation providing evidence of the titles of diplomas or advanced diplomas received
(vocational school students only)
❺ Documentation providing evidence of the applicant’s activities, etc.
Documentation clarifying the labor conditions given to the worker based on Article 15, Paragraph
1 of the Labor Standards Act and Article 5 of the Ordinance for Enforcement of the Act in the
event of a labor contract having been concluded
❻ Documentation proving the applicant’s academic history and work history, and other personal

Specified Skilled Worker

background information, etc.
(1) A resume stating the organization, period of work, and details of the skills and knowledge that
the applicant was engaged in which are relevant to the application
(2) Any of the following documents providing evidence of academic background and work experience, etc.
a. G raduation certificate issued by a university, etc., or other documentation providing evidence
of having received education that is equivalent or upper. Applicants with qualifications from
India's DOEACC system are required to submit DOEACC qualification certificates (limited to
level A, B, or C).
b. D ocumentation providing evidence for the applicant's work experience as listed in the
employment certificate, etc. (including certificates issued by universities, colleges and high

Designated Activities
schools, etc., or vocational schools listing the periods that the applicant majored in specialist
subjects pertaining to the relevant skills and knowledge)
c. F
 or IT engineers, proof of passing the specified examination or having obtained certification for information
processing skills as set out by the Minister of Justice in a special provision public notice
*For applicants who will be performing duties that require an understanding of or sensitivity
toward foreign culture, applicants are required to submit documentation providing evidence
of at least three years' experience in relevant work (excluding applicants who graduated from
universities and will be involved in translation, interpretation, or language teaching activities).
❼ Certificate of the Registered Matters
❽ Either of the following documents that clarify the contents of the duties performed
(1) O verview of the employing company detailing the history, officers, organization, and business
affairs (including main clients and business results) of the company
(2) All other documentation produced by the employing company that conform to (1) listed above
❾ A copy of the financial statements for the most recent fiscal year (Category 3 and Category 4)
A business plan in the case of a new business (Category 4 only)
 D ocuments that clarify the reason for the inability to submit all employees’ statements of
earnings in withholding tax records or other statutory tax reports for employees for the
previous year

The information above is only a summary. For more details, please refer to the page of the Immigration
Services Agency below.
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/procedures/nyuukokukanri07_00095.html

73
Designated Activities
(Public Notice No. 46: Graduates of a university in Japan)

To promote the retention of capable foreign workers who have graduated from universities or graduate schools in Japan,
a Ministry of Justice Public Notice was revised in May 2019 to expand opportunities for employment of international
students who are foreign nationals and are expected to contribute to the revitalization of the economy in Japan.
In line with J-MIRAI - Japan-Mobility and Internationalisation : Re-engaging and Accelerating Initiative for future
generations - (Council for the Creation of Future Education, April 27, 2023), in June 2023, a new system was established by
the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) with the aim of improving the retention rate
of highly-skilled foreign professionals and providing more opportunities for foreign human resources who have graduated
or completed specialized training colleges etc., so that they can play an active role in the industry. This new system
accredits departments of postsecondary courses in specialized training colleges that provide high quality education, as well
as education that contributes to the promotion of understanding of Japanese society, for the purpose of promoting career
development for international students. In response to this, the Immigration Services Agency decided to add those who are
recognized as equivalent to university graduates, such as those who have obtained advanced diploma (limited to those who
have completed the postsecondary course in a specialized training college accredited by MEXT), to the list of "specified
activities (Notification No. 46)", and the Ministry of Justice Notice was revised in February 2024.

The revision of a Ministry of Justice Public Notice to support

the employment of international students
This system permits graduates of universities in Japan to engage in a wide range of work at a public or private organization
in Japan with the requirement that they utilize the broad knowledge and skills acquired at universities and the like in
Japan and the high level of Japanese language gained through experience as an international student. General hospitality
or manufacturing work is not permitted as the major activity while under the status of residence Engineer / Specialist
in Humanities / International Services, but this system permits such activities if the requirements below are met.
However, work that is legally stipulated to be performed by a licensed person (requiring an occupational license) and work
related to adult entertainment are not permitted.

Major requirements for Designated Activities

Designated Activities (Public Notice No. 46: Graduates of a university in Japan)

Activities Activities engaging in work based on a contract with a public or private organization in Japan as
designated by the Minister of Justice for work as a full-time employee of the aforementioned organization
(including engaging in work requiring smooth communication using the Japanese language and excluding
engaging in work in the adult entertainment business or work legally stipulated to be performed by a
licensed person).

Requirements Those who have graduated from a university, and have completed a program at a graduate school in
and criteria Japan and have been awarded a degree. Those who have graduated from a College of Technology
(KOSEN) (includes those who have completed the first half of a professional/vocational university course)
or vocational school (they need to have completed the first half of a professional and/or vocational
university), passed the examination conducted by the National Institution for Academic Degrees and
Quality Enhancement of Higher Education, and have been awarded a degree. Those who have graduated
from a department of post-secondary course in a specialized training college (limited to departments of
postsecondary courses that have been accredited by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science
and Technology as stipulated in Article 2 of the regulations concerning the accreditation of Program
for Enhancing Employment of International Students in postsecondary courses in specialized training
colleges (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Public Notice No.53 of 2023),
have been awarded an advanced diploma, and have a high level of Japanese language proficiency.
① Educational Background
Those who have graduated from a university, and have completed a program at a graduate school in
Japan and have been awarded a degree. Those who have graduated from a College of Technology
(includes those who have completed the first half of a professional/vocational university course) or
vocational school (they need to have completed the first half of a professional and/or vocational
university), passed the examination conducted by the National Institution for Academic Degrees
and Quality Enhancement of Higher Education, and have been awarded a degree. Those who have
graduated from a department of postsecondary course in a specialized training college (limited to
departments of post-secondary courses that have been accredited by the Minister of Education,
Culture, Sports, Science and Technology as stipulated in Article 2 of the regulations concerning the
accreditation of Program for Enhancing Employment of International Students in postsecondary courses
in specialized training colleges (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Public
Notice No.53 of 2023), and have been awarded an advanced diploma.

74
 ② Japanese language skill
a) Persons scoring N1 on the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) or 480 or greater on the
BJT Business Japanese Proficiency Test are eligible.
b) In addition, persons who have graduated from a university having selected the Japanese language as
their major in university or graduate school are deemed to have fulfilled (a).
P
 ersons who had selected the Japanese language as their major in university or graduate school in
a foreign country are also deemed to have fulfilled (a), however, in such cases, the person also must
have graduated from a university or have completed a graduate school in Japan.
③ Wages
A person must be paid a wage equivalent or superior to if a Japanese national were to be engaged.
Whether the amount is equivalent or superior to Japanese nationals is not determined uniformly based

Application for Change of

on a set remuneration amount, but on whether the amount is equivalent or superior to Japanese

Status of Residence
nationals engaging in similar work based on the wage constitution of the region and the individual
company, referencing the wages of persons engaging in similar work at other companies.

Period of stay 5 years, 3 years, 1 year, 6 months, or 3 months (Visa extension is applicable.)

<Points of note>
• Limited to work as a full-time employee. Part-time work, such as short hours, and contracts for a limited
period are not eligible.
• Only activities engaging in work during the contract period are eligible. Labor activities at another

Specialist in Humanities /
company as a dispatched staff member are not permitted.

International Services
Engineer /
Job Hunting Activities after Graduating
In the event that you cannot find employment by the time you graduate, you may apply to change your visa from
"College Student" to "Designated Activities (to continue seeking employment)" to continue job hunting activities for

Specified Skilled Worker

a year after graduating.
(This visa is valid for six months and may be renewed only one time for another six months. (namely, 1 year in total))

It is possible to continue job hunting activities for an additional year if the following conditions are satisfied during
the second year after graduation.
In the second year after graduating from a university, etc., if you wish to participate in job hunting support programs
provided by local governments, including internship programs (which must comply with the requirements established
by Immigration Services Agency), and have no trouble residing in Japan, you may change your status of residence for
your participation in job hunting activities as part of these programs (residence of six months for specific activities)

Designated Activities
and be authorized to extend your period of residence one more time by obtaining a certificate from your local
government.

■ Eligible individuals
● Those who have graduated from a university (including two-year colleges) or a regular course
at a graduate school
● Those who have graduated from a professional training college and got a diploma
● Those who have graduated from a university or graduate school overseas, and have
graduated from a Japanese language educational institution that meets certain requirements.

■ Precaution when you start job hunting after graduation

● Even though it is a government policy that newly graduated students can apply for jobs up to three years
after graduation, most Japanese companies start recruiting students to join their companies in April
to September of their third year of university making plans to secure staff mainly from new graduates.
Therefore opportunities are limited.
● You may be asked to wait to join the company until April of the following year even if you are offered a position.
● It is difficult to gather information because you have to apply during a different time than the regular "new
graduate recruitment schedule" and because of the late timing, it may be difficult to convey your desire for
the job.
In the case you have gotten an official job offer that starts in April of the following year, you may stay in Japan until
you start work by changing your visa to “Designated Activities (for persons with job offers)”. However, you must
apply to change your status of residence because the content of your activities differs from job hunting activities.

75
Specified Skilled Worker
With the objective of accepting foreign workers for industrial fields with a serious shortage of
labor, the new status of residence Specified Skilled Worker was created on April 1st, 2019.

Specified Skilled Worker (i)

T h is is a system for accept i ng foreig n nat ionals wit h a specif ied level of specialt y
and skills who are already capable in order to deal with the serious shor tage of labor.
It is a status of residence for foreign nationals engaging in work requiring considerable knowledge, skill,
and/or experience belonging to a specified industrial field.
■ Specified industrial fields
The 16 specified fields are nursing care; building/cleaning management; manufacture of industrial
products; the construction industry; the shipbuilding/ship machinery industry; automobile repair and
maintenance; the aviation industry; the accommodation industry; automobile transportation business;
railway; agriculture; fishery & aquaculture industries; manufacture of food and beverages; food service
industry; forestry and wood industry.
Note: There are two types of status of residence for the Specified Skilled Worker: Specified Skilled Worker
(i) and Specified Skilled Worker (ii). Specified Skilled Worker (ii) is a status of residence for foreign nationals
engaging in work requiring proficient skills belonging to specified industrial fields. The 11 fields except nursing
care, automobile transportation business, railway, forestry and wood industry are considered Specified Skilled
Worker (ii). As for the nursing care category, it is not considered as Specified Skilled Worker (ii), since there is
already a "nursing care" field in the current "status of residence in professional/technical field".

Major requirements for Specified Skilled Worker

Specified Skilled Worker (i)

Activities Activities engaging in work requiring a considerable degree of knowledge or experience as specified by an
Ordinance of the Ministry of Justice that is in a specified industrial field (a field of industry designated by
an Ordinance of the Ministry of Justice as one requiring the hiring of foreign nationals due to the difficulty
in securing workers) and based on an employment contract with a public or private organization in Japan
as designated by the Minister of Justice.

Major job Duties to be engaged in specific industrial fields are predetermined.

types Examples:Accommodation industry
• Jobs related to hospitality services such as reception, planning and public relations, customer service,
and restaurant services in accommodations
Examples:Food service industry
• General restaurant work (food preparation, customer service, restaurant management)
Please see the document below for other specified fields.
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/content/930004975.pdf

Requirements • Is 18 years of age or older

and criteria • Has passed a skill test and a Japanese language test (persons who have successfully completed Technical
Intern Training (ii) are exempt from the testing requirement)
• Has not resided in Japan under the status of Specified Skilled Worker (i) for a total of 5 years or more
• Has not paid a security deposit or concluded a contract with penalties.
• If there are expenses to be borne by the candidate, they fully understand the details of the expenses
• Will be given remuneration equivalent or superior to if a Japanese national were to be engaged and others

Period of stay A term individually designated by the Minister of Justice (1 year or less), which can be renewed up to 5 years in total.

Immigration Services Agency of Japan "For international students who wish to

transfer to Specific Skills Visa"
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/policies/ssw/nyuukokukanri07_00003.html
76
COLUMN ❻
Points-Based Preferential Immigration Treatment for
Highly-Skilled Foreign Professionals

This is a system in which points are allocated in accordance with the academic background, work experience

Application for Change of

and annual salary, etc., of foreign nationals. Applicants who score 70 or more points receive preferential

Status of Residence
treatment with regards to the easing of requirements for permanent residence, permission for spouses to work,
and preferential processing of entry and residence procedures, etc.

1 Outline and Objectives of the System

The Points-Based Preferential Immigration Treatment for Highly-Skilled Foreign Professionals was enacted on
May 7, 2012, for the purpose of promoting the entry of highly-skilled foreign professionals into the country.
The objective of this system is to promote the entry of highly-skilled foreign professionals into Japan by

Specialist in Humanities /
International Services
dividing their activities into the three categories of [Advanced Academic Research Activities], [Advanced
Specialized Technical Activities] and [Advanced Business Management Activities], and awarding points

Engineer /
in accordance with their [Academic Background], [Work Experience], [Annual Salary], and other criteria
depending on the characteristics thereof, and granting preferential immigration treatment to those who achieve
a predetermined total of points (70 points).

2 Preferential Immigration Treatment

Specified Skilled Worker

[Highly-Skilled Professional (i)]
Three Categories of Activities of (1) Permission for multiple residence activities in Japan
Highly-Skilled Foreign Professionals
(2) Granting of a five-year period stay
Advanced Academic Research (3) Easing of requirements for permanent residence with regard to the
Activities [Highly-Skilled Professional (i) (a)] period of stay
Activities of engaging in research, research guidance, (4) Permission for the spouse of the highly-skilled foreign professional
or education based on a contract entered into with a to work
public or private organization in Japan (5) Permission to bring parent(s) to Japan under certain conditions
(6) Permission to bring a domestic worker to Japan under certain
Advanced Specialized Technical Activities conditions

Designated Activities
[Highly-Skilled Professional (i) (b)] (7) Preferential processing of entry and residence procedures
Activities of engaging in work requiring specialized
knowledge or skills in the field of natural sciences or [Highly-Skilled Professional (ii)]
humanities based on a contract entered into with a a. In conjunction with the activities of "Highly-Skilled Professional
public or private organization in Japan (i)", permitted to engage in almost all of the activities under the
authorization for employment
Advanced Business Management Activities b. Granted an indefinite period of stay
[Highly-Skilled Professional (i) (c)] c. Eligible for the preferential treatment of the above-mentioned (3) to (6)
Activities of engaging in the operation or management *"Highly-Skilled Professional (ii)" is for foreign nationals who have
of a public or private organization in Japan engaged in activities of "Highly-Skilled Professional (i)" for three
years or more.

Points-Based Preferential Immigration Treatment for Highly-Skilled Foreign Professionals

https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/publications/materials/newimmiact_3_index.html

Open for Professionals/The portal site for utilizing highly-skilled foreign professionals
This site provides easy-to-understand information for foreign nationals on highly-skilled foreign
professionals who live in Japan or who are considering living in Japan, such as preferential treatment for
immigration, etc.
https://www.jetro.go.jp/hrportal/

77
Job Hunting Ms. Cha Cera
Reports Nationality: Korea
University/school: J. F. Oberlin University
Department/Faculty: College of Arts and Sciences,
International Cooperation
Period of study in Japan: April 2020 to March 2025
Place of work: Nippon Cargo Airlines Company, Limited
Japanese proficiency: JLPT N1

■ Reason for working in Japan ■ How I researched industries and companies

While studying in Japan, life there suited me very well I attended company brief ing sessions and checked
so I felt that I wanted to continue to live in Japan, and the company's website. I also gathered information
then I started considering finding a job in Japan. I feel by consulting with friends and people who graduated
that Japanese companies have excellent systems for before me.
education and career development in the workplace, and
I can gain valuable experience and learn a lot in life. ■ Things to be careful of regarding application forms
Therefore, I thought that working in Japan was the best and resumes
choice for me.
I a n a ly z e d t he c om p a ny a nd t r ie d t o w r it e my
■ Reason for choosing my company applications taking into account the type of person
the company is looking for. I also took care not to use
Seeing the vaccine being transported around the world unnatural Japanese or incorrect grammar.
by air logistics during the coronavirus pandemic, I
realized that air logistics is an important industry ■ Things to be careful of during interviews
that delivers needed supplies quickly, and I became
interested in the industry. When I needed my belongings I learned about interview etiquette, practiced many
that were left in Korea while I was studying in Japan, I times to prepare myself to avoid making mistakes, and
had the experience of receiving it promptly by airmail, tried to speak confidently even if I was nervous. I also
which was ver y helpf ul. Through this experience, valued the opportunity to visit offices in other countries
I felt that I wanted to do work that would be useful and communicate with employees there.
and valuable to people, which is why I applied to this
company. ■ Questions during interviews

■ Company job content What I want to do after joining the company, why I
came to Japan to study, and how I deal with personal
Nippon Cargo Airlines Company, Limited is responsible relationship problems.
for the operations of air cargo being imported and
ex p or t e d . T hey t a ke ca r e of ca r go e s i nclu d i ng ■ Hopes and plans for the future
perishable goods that must be fresh, expensive artwork,
semiconductor manufacturing equipment, life-saving I believe that it is meaningless if I am the only one
medical supplies, relief supplies, and even racehorses feeling happy, so my dream for the future is to do a
and more. They support Japan's international logistics rewarding job where I can make the people around me
while seeing off aircraft that take off to countries around happy as well.
the world.
■ Advice to future job-seekers
■ Self-promotion to companies
I think the key is to not worry too much and take action
Fi r s t , I e m p h a s i z e d t h a t I m a i n t a i n a m i c a b l e by attending company briefing sessions, focusing on
interpersonal relationships. Specifically, I mentioned self-analysis, and analyzing the industry. It would also
that I have never had any major problems or arguments be helpful to study for the SPI in advance.
in my life and about how I have solved problems with
others when they arose. I also marketed my strength as a
planner and explained how I planned my daily schedule,
showing a specific schedule.

■ Number of companies applied to during job hunting

Application: 38, Company briefing session: 30 (joined
online 30), Internship 4 (joined online 3), Interview
6 (joined online 4)

■ Effective job hunting strategies

I think it was good to broaden my perspective and
have an interest in a variety of f ields, rather than
concentrating only on areas that are related to things I
am interested in. I also felt that it is important to take on
challenges first, even if I am not confidentwhen applying
to companies.

78
 Ms.Go Lien
Nationality: Belarus
University/school:Takushoku University
Faculty of Foreign Languages, Department of Global Japanese Language
Period of study in Japan: January 2020 to March 2025
Place of work: AXXZIA Inc
Japanese proficiency: JLPT N1

Job Hunting Reports

■ Reason for working in Japan ■ How I researched industries and companies
After coming to and living in Japan, I have experienced I used their official websites. Specifically, I reviewed an
Japanese life and cult ure and have been st rongly ideal candidate profile and their business description in
attracted by its charms. I empathized with the Japanese's detail, and looked for matches with my own strengths.
daily life people's courtesy, and their attitude toward I also deepened my understanding of the company I
work, and felt that I wanted to contribute to Japanese wanted to work for by reading interviews with senior
society as a member of it. Because of this, I would like employees and gaining an image of the company's
to work for a Japanese company where I could utilize atmosphere and work style.
my skills and contribute to society through my job.
■ Things to be careful of regarding application forms
■ Reason for choosing my company and resumes
I wanted to be involved in work that improves people's I made a conscious effort to clarify “Why I chose this
lives, and I wanted to offer products that I have interest company and not others." I tried to convey how much I
in. I feel that cosmetics are closely related to our daily wanted to work for this company and my strengths by
lives and support people's self-expression and self- listing specific features and attractions that I understood
confidence, so I decided to work for a cosmetics-related from the company research, and by expressing how I
company. empathized with them and how I can contribute to the
company.
■ Company job content
■ Things to be careful of during interviews
The company offers beauty and health products such
as skin care and supplements. Taking advantage of By anticipating questions in advance, prepar ing
Japan's high technology and quality, they are expanding answers, and having rough answers in mind, I was able
their business to Asia and other countries. They aim to to go into the interviews with confidence. I also tried
support beauty from both inside and outside the body, to give a good impression to the interviewer by being
with particular emphasis on anti-aging care and skin conscious of answering with a cheerful expression and a
whitening. smile.

■ Self-promotion to companies ■ Questions during interviews

I promoted my international communication skills, During the interview, I was asked questions about
which I acquired by participating in inter national reasons for applying for the company, what is most
exchange meetings at the university. Through interaction important for me when I am job hunting, what I want to
with people from different cultural backgrounds, I do after joining the company, the kind of person I want
cultivated my ability to understand diverse values to be, my strengths, what I worked hard at when I was a
and respond f lexibly. I would like to make use of this student, and news that caught my attention etc.
experience to communicate smoothly with diverse
people in the company and contribute to them from a ■ Hopes and plans for the future
global perspective.
I would like to improve people's lives as much as
■ Number of companies applied to during job hunting possible through my work. I want to give a positive
impact on someone's daily life through my work, and to
Application: 12, Company briefing session: 35 (joined strive to find joy in being useful to society.
online 18), Internship 0, Interview 7 (joined online 5)
■ Advice to future job-seekers
■ Effective job hunting strategies
I recommend that you attend job hunting brief ing
It was effective to actively par ticipate in various sessions early on to learn how to proceed and how to
c o m p a ny b r ief i ng s e s sio n s. T h i s h el p e d m e t o find companies. The earlier you get information, the
understand the business and company culture of each easier it will be to find the work you want to do and the
company, and to clarify what I really want to do and the companies you want to work for, and the easier it will be
characteristics of the companies I want to work for. I feel to make plans. Please participate actively to prepare well
that by gaining a lot of information, I have broadened in advance.
my perspective and have a foundation for identifying the
company that suits me the most.

79
 Mr. Chu Kok Dat
Nationality: Vietnamese
University/school: Sapporo International University
Department/Faculty: Department of Tourism Business
Period of study in Japan: October 2017 to March 2024
Place of work: Ridge works Co., Ltd.
Japanese proficiency: JLPT N1

■ Reason for working in Japan ■ Things to be careful of regarding application forms

and resumes
I wanted to be a bridge between my home country,
Vietnam and Japan, and work in the IT field. I chose to I tried to understand the company's point of view and
be a bridge system engineer to contribute to Japan and make them feel that I would be a valuable asset after
Vietnam by utilizing the language and IT knowledge I joining the company. I paid attention to the structure of
had learned. the texts to ensure that they are easy for the company to
read and understand, and added objective figures and
■ Reason for choosing my company evaluations from other people to the conclusion.

I chose the company based on the following three ■ Things to be careful of during interviews
important points in mind, "Can be a bridge between
Vietnam and Japan", "A safe working environment" and I pre pa red appl icat ion docu me nt s a nd pe r sonal
"Actively working on cutting-edge technology". belongings and practiced interviews well enough. By
doing so, you can answer questions from interviewers
■ Responsibilities at work with confidence. In an interview, the first impression
is also very important so I cared about grooming and
Through the development of software and services, the manners. At the end of the interview, I tried to greet
company provides solutions to problems that customers them cheerfully with a smile.
have faced such as networking, educational activities,
medical care, etc., from a variety of perspectives. ■ Questions asked during interviews
■ Self-promotion to companies Why do I want to work in the IT field, the reason why
I chose the company rather than other companies, my
I emphasized the desire that I would like to always try strengths and weaknesses, what I worked hard for when
new things by making the most of various experiences I I was a student, and my career path for the future, etc.
had since I came to Japan and my energetic personality
to jump into new environments without fear. ■ Hopes and plans for the future

■ Number of companies applied to during job hunting I would like to acquire more IT skills and develop the
company. In the future, I would like to establish a base
Application: 6, Company briefing session: 10 ( joined in Vietnam and develop medical systems that will help
online 6 out of 10), Internship 2 (joined online : 0), people.
Interview 6 (joined online 4 out of 6)
■ Advice to future job-seekers
■ Effective job hunting strategies
T he soone r, t he bet t e r. O nce you de cide wh ich
Actively participate in company briefing sessions. You companies you will apply to based on company briefing
can gain a deeper understanding of the company and get sessions and company tours, I suggest you participate
a chance to actively ask questions on what you want to in their internships since you can make the most of
know, which will be useful for interviews. I think it is a the experience for self-promotion. If you don't know
good opportunity to meet and find companies even for your strengths and weaknesses, I think it is a good idea
those who are not sure about their ambition. to take feedback from people around you. Good luck
everyone!
■ How I researched industries and companies
I carried out a company research on my own using job
hunting websites and the company's website as well as
gathered information on the company with the help of
teachers in university and friends, and then I participated
in company briefing sessions and internships.

80
 Mr. Le Sinh Nhat
Nationality: Vietnamese
University/school: Ashikaga University
Depar tment /Facult y: Facult y of Engineering, Depar tment of Innovative
Engineering, Division of Systems and Information Engineering
Period of study in Japan: April 2018 to March 2023
Place of work: CRESCO, LTD.
Japanese proficiency: JLPT N1

Job Hunting Reports

■ Reason for working in Japan ■ How I researched industries and companies
The reason why I decided to work in Japan is because I first gathered an extensive amount of information and
I wanted to exper ience and lear n Japan's u nique organized the contents. And then, I actually participated
technology and culture, and deepen my expertise. I was in several company briefing sessions and internships,
also attracted by the stable economic situation, high and listed the information I gained there. By doing so, I
quality of living environment, and history in Japan. could deepen my understanding of the companies.

■ Reason for choosing my company ■ Things to be careful of regarding application forms

and resumes
First of all, the company has an ideal environment where
I can be active in the field I am interested in. Also, the I included the concrete experiences in an easy-to-
company cares about whether staff feel happiness and u nderst and man ner. For the self-promotion and
their growth at work, and has an excellent benefits experience, I think I could successfully convey my
package. I was convinced that I could build a long- ability based on experience and results. I also thought
term career with the company since I empathized with carefully about the reason why I chose the company and
the company's future vision and corporate culture, so I how I can contribute to the company.
chose this company.
■ Things to be careful of during interviews
■ Responsibilities at work
In the interview, I tried to be calm and answer politely.
CRESCO, LTD. is a cutting-edge company providing I think I was able to answer the questions accurately
va r iou s se r v ic e s i n t he I T f ield . T he y d evelo p by sharing my experiences. I also prepared for the
applications, enhanced digital marketing, and offer interview by understanding the characteristics of the
cloud services. company and the trends in the industry in advance.

■ Self-promotion to companies ■ Questions asked during interviews

I talked about my experience in which I flexibly dealt My strengths and weaknesses, lear ning f rom past
with prog rams according to circu mstances and I experiences, my future goals, and other questions related
worked with a team to achieve the goals to emphasize to concrete reasons for application.
my adaptability and cooperation skills in a team. I also
strongly promoted myself on how I can contribute to ■ Hopes and plans for the future
the company after joining by explaining my interest in
cutting-edge technology and willingness to continuously Contribute to society by making full use of technology.
learn. I would like to take advantage of the expertise and skills
I have and develop services and products that make
■ Number of companies applied to during job hunting people's life more convenient. I want to be a helpful
person in our society as an engineer.
Application: 20, Company briefing session: 40 (joined
online 40), Internship 15 (joined online 15), Interview ■ Advice to future job-seekers
5 (joined online 5)
It is very important to be yourself while job hunting.
■ Effective job hunting strategies Don't compare yourself with others, and believe in your
strengths and value. Accept failures and setbacks as
It was effective to conduct a thorough self-analysis experiences and make use of them next time. With hard
beforehand to clarify my strengths and weaknesses. work, perseverance, and positive thinking, please create
The feedback from mock interviews and application your own future.
forms was also useful for the improvement. An effective
approach based on self-analysis led to the official job
offer from the company.

81
 Useful "JASSO Job Hunting Support" websites

https://www.jasso.go.jp/ryugaku/after_study_j/job/info.html
1. Employment Service Centers for Foreigners
- Services: Provision of employment information, counseling and job placement, and internships
- Locations: Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and Fukuoka
- Languages supported: Tokyo and Fukuoka: English, Chinese and Ukrainian/ Osaka and Nagoya:
English, Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish, Ukrainian and Vietnamese, etc.
- Consultation methods: Telephone and in person
- URL: Tokyo https://jsite.mhlw.go.jp/tokyo-foreigner/
Osaka https://jsite.mhlw.go.jp/osaka-foreigner/
Nagoya https://jsite.mhlw.go.jp/aichi-foreigner/
Fukuoka https://jsite.mhlw.go.jp/fukuoka-roudoukyoku/hw/fuzoku_kikan/gaisen.html

2. Public Employment Offices (Hello Work Offices)

- Services: Employment counseling
- Locations: Each prefecture
- Locations where foreign language phone calls are available: 47 prefectures
- Hello Work locations where foreign language interpreters are available: 31 prefectures
- Languages supported: English, Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish, Korean, Tagalog, Vietnamese,
Nepali, Ukrainian, Thai, and Indonesian (varies by region).
- Consultation methods: Telephone and in person
- Hello Work Internet Service
URL: https://www.hellowork.mhlw.go.jp/
- Hello Work for new graduates
URL: https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/bunya/0000132220.html

3. Immigration Information Centers

- Services: Counseling on procedures for entering Japan, visa applications, etc.
Phone: 0570-013904(IP Phone, from overseas: +81-3-5796-7112)
- L
 ocations: S
 apporo, Sendai, Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, Kobe, Hiroshima, Takamatsu,
Fukuoka and Naha
- Languages supported: English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, Portuguese and Vietnamese. (varies by region)
- email: info-tokyo@i.moj.go.jp(Languages supported: Japanese and English)
- URL: https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/consultation/center/index.html

4. Immigration Services Agency and Regional Immigration Bureaus

- Services: Procedures for changing status of residence, etc.
- Locations: Sapporo, Sendai, Tokyo, Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, Yokohama, Nagoya,
Chubu Airport, Osaka, Kansai Airport, Kobe, Hiroshima, Takamatsu, Fukuoka and Naha
- Languages supported: Japanese
- Consultation methods: Telephone and in person
- URL: https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/other_languages.html?hl=en

5. The Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry

- Services: Provision of company information and information related to job hunting, and recruitment for internships
- Locations: Each prefecture (Some services may not be available at certain locations.)
- Languages supported: Japanese
- Consultation methods: Telephone and in person * Services are not only for foreigners.
- URL: https://www.jcci.or.jp/

International Scholarship Division,

Student Exchange Department
2-2-1 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8630 Japan
Phone +81-3-5520-6030 Fax +81-3-5520-6031
NOTE: Unauthorized use and reproduction of content in this document is prohibited. Issued February 2025 / Not for sale