Working in Japan

Many international students wish to pursue careers in Japan. At Kumamoto University, we assist international students in the acquisition of language proficiency, intercultural communication skills and academic knowledge in order to help students reach their employment goals.

Current Employment Situation in Japan

The world-wide financial crisis has severely impacted the economies of many countries and Japan is no exception. A number of companies have reduced the number of job openings, sometimes completely halting recruitment. At present, the job market in Japan is highly competitive and presents many challenges to those seeking employment. However, many companies are attempting to turn this crisis into an opportunity to re-invent and to bring innovation to their business through the acquisition of new promising , new workers. The key to career success depends on how actively and effectively you engage in Job-Hunting.

Needs for International Students

Due to the rapid growth of globalization, companies are expanding their businesses internationally, opening factories, business head offices, and stores in foreign countries. They need skillful and expert workers who can manage international business communication among staff members and clients all over the world. International students have essential language skills as well as a valuable understanding of Japanese culture in addition to their native cultures. As a consequence, international students are considered a great resource in the international operations of Japanese businesses.

Job-Hunting Support

Students usually begin job-hunting in the third year of undergraduate programs or, in the case of graduate students, the first year of graduate studies.

April〜 Career guidance and Introductory Lectures are held.
May〜 Self-Examination on your strong points, competencies, interests, and goals.
October〜 Registering Career Support Search Engine on the internet and starting search for job openings.
November〜 Attending Job Fairs and Explanatory Meetings.
December〜 Sending resumes as well as entry sheets and taking job entrance examinations.
February〜 Attending group discussions and interviews.
The whole Interview process usually includes a series of interviews, 5 times at most, before an official decision is reached.
March〜 After May: Students continue job hunting until they are successful.
Once a final decision is reached, official job offer notifications will be sent to prospective students in May, including 4th year undergraduate students and 2nd year graduate students.

Tips

You need to practice writing an effective resume and Entry Sheet, as Japanese companies will closely evaluate your Japanese proficiency level. Group discussions and interviews are very important stages in the job-hunting process. Therefore, students should prepare themselves by getting advice from faculty members and other students. Interviewees are often given only a short period of time for introductions and to express ideas in interviews. Prospective employees must be able to answer questions such as “what have you learned,”“why do you want to work in Japan,” and “what is your future goal,” clearly and effectively.