Japan is a country with diverse cultures and traditions, and for foreigners, embarking on job interviews in Japan comes with its unique challenges. However, with the right preparation and understanding, foreigners can increase their chances of success.

Japanese job interviews have unique rules and manners that may not exist in other countries. Even if a job applicant is highly competent, they can lower their evaluation and fail the interview due to a breach of manners.

In this article, we’ll delve into understanding Japan’s unique rules for job interviews, exploring know-how for succeeding in these interviews.

clothes

In Japan, it is recommended to wear a black business suit for interviews. While there are companies that don’t specify dress code depending on the industry, these are quite few and far between. Please consider wearing a business suit and giving the interviewer a clean, tidy impression as the starting line for an interview in Japan.

Etiquette Upon Entering the Room

When you are waiting outside the interview room, your name will be called, which is the signal to start the interview. Knock gently on the door of the interview room three times and wait for the interviewer to say “Please come in” before entering. Make sure not to open the door until you are prompted to enter by the interviewer.

Once you have entered, bow and say, “Hello. Thank you for giving me this opportunity,” and proceed to the prepared chair. However, do not sit down until prompted by the interviewer. Stand next to the chair and wait for the interviewer’s instructions until you are told to sit down.

Question and Answer

Interviews in Japan, like those overseas, primarily involve questions about your reasons for applying, your work history, and what skills you possess. It’s desirable to use polite language, and if possible, use Japanese honorifics and polite expressions.

Also, questions about your personal profile are often asked on par with job-related inquiries. During Japanese interviews, the interviewer not only assesses your professional capabilities but also throws questions to gauge your personality and character. If you can portray sincerity and positivity, making the interviewer feel they would like to work with you, you will be significantly closer to success.

Exit manners

After the interview is over, while still seated, say “Thank you for today,” and bow, then stand up. Then say “Thank you” again, bow, and walk towards the door. Finally, when you reach the door, face the interviewer, bow, and say “Thank you very much for your time,” then exit the room. It’s easy to forget about manners when the tension melts away the moment you stand up, but try to stay focused and behave politely until the end.

Conclusion

Compared to overseas, Japanese interviews have a lot of formalities and detailed manners and rules. Understanding and implementing all of these can be laborious, but by embracing them, you have a chance to strongly showcase your receptivity to different cultures. In Japan, personality is valued as much as job capabilities, so when job hunting in Japan, understanding and intending to practice Japanese manners can be a significant advantage. It’s important to show respect for Japanese culture and customs while promoting yourself. If you approach the interview with this in mind, you’re bound to get good results.