Japan: Applying for jobs

How do I apply for a job?

Building contacts and networking with people in Japan before you move is one way of improving your chances.

One of the most common strategies for finding a graduate job in Japan is to go as an English teacher and then make connections with employers once in the country. One popular teaching programme is the Japanese Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme . Competition for this programme is fierce.

You do not need to be living in Japan to apply for graduate-level jobs. However, apart from jobs teaching English, employers prefer candidates to have worked in Japan before and have strong Japanese language abilities.

Speculative applications are accepted, as many Japanese companies do not advertise specific vacancies. These should be made with a covering letter and CV.

What kind of CV do I need?

The requirements of a Japanese CV vary between companies but many demand information not normally asked for in other countries. In general, a photograph, statement about your proficiency in Japanese and general CV headings such as education and experience are required. Companies may also ask for your medical history or even for your cover letter to be handwritten. The job advert should specify the requirements.

A rirekisho, or traditional Japanese résumé using a standard form, may be required. The International University of Japan - Resume and Rirekisho  outlines the details of a rirekisho résumé and the particular form it takes.

Teaching English in Japan (TEiJ)  also offers a guide to writing a CV for English teaching in Japan, but the advice may be applied to other types of jobs. For further advice, see JobERA.com: CVs and Resumes for Worldwide Job Search .

What will the interview process be like?

Japanese job interviews are formal, with the emphasis on how you can 'fit in' to the organisation and not what the organisation can do for you.

Etiquette is important, as is respect for hierarchy. It is polite to address people by their job titles. Handshakes are acceptable, combined with bowing. Eye contact should not be held for too long, as this may be considered impolite. Further advice about interviews in Japan can be found at JobERA.com: International Job Interviews .

Interviews for English teaching jobs conducted outside Japan are likely to be less formal and in more of a Western format.

Will my UK qualifications be recognised?

A degree obtained in the UK will carry equal weight to a Japanese degree.

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is the internationally recognised qualification for non-Japanese speakers. There are five test levels (N1-5), with N5 being the lowest. The test can be taken in London at the SOAS Language Centre  or at the University of Edinburgh: Japan Studies .

Do I still need to pay UK tax and National Insurance?

If you are planning to live and work in Japan, check your UK tax and National Insurance position with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)  to ensure that you are not losing any UK pension rights.