August 25th, 2010
Ask Questions Before Accepting Jobs in Japan
You will be doing yourself a huge favor by applying for jobs in Japan. There is just no surpassing the richness in cultural experience that you’ll get out of a stint in Japan. Don’t just jump into the opportunity though. There are some things that you need to set things straight first.
What kind of work is available?
Two of the most popular areas foreign applicants are most welcome in are education and the hospitality industry. English teachers in particular are highly compensated but depending on the school and position level you are applying for, you may need to present high academic records and instruction certifications. Work in bars and resorts have lower pays but the positions often demand fewer stiff personal qualifications.
Who can be accepted?
Anyone who wishes to work in Japan needs to apply for a working visa. This however is only really applicable for long term employment. For some individuals, the working holiday visa is more appropriate. This is a special document issued to individuals who are 18-30 years old and who live in Canada, UK, New Zealand, Australia, Denmark, Germany, France, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Korea and Ireland. Applicants for this special arrangement are required to declare their plans primarily for a holiday. The chance to look for jobs in Japan is only a secondary benefit accorded to successful applicants.
How much is the pay?
This would obviously depend on where you work. For highly qualified English teachers in top private schools, a monthly salary of more than 200,000 yen is just about the standard rate. You do have to keep in mind though that this is the gross pay. You’d have to deduct your meal and accommodation expenses to arrive at your net take home pay. Resort workers are paid less at around 125,000 yen per month. Those who work in winter resorts however can still manage to save a lot because accommodations and meals are free.
What are the usual work hours?
Expect to report for work everyday at 8 and clock out at 5. There are a couple of jobs in Japan though that will require you to stay longer. For companies in the hospitality niche, peak months are in July and August which is when you will also be expected to work long, multiple shifts. In a lot of cases, workers in resorts have to work late at night and during weekends too. Some employees work twelve to sixteen hours a week for all the days of the week.
Is cultural adjustment necessary?
The most outstanding quality of Japanese culture is the value placed on respect. You will have to treat everyone with deference from your peers to top management. In a lot of cases though, the kind of respect expected will depend on who you are talking to and who or what you are referring to. There are different levels of honorific titles and language that you would have to learn. In general, this is encompassed in Keigo or Japanese honorifics.
Applying for Japan jobs and getting accepted in one is truly an enriching experience. Take note though that before you make the leap into this direction, you need to know exactly what you are getting yourself into.



