- 26 Feb 2003
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We see alot of the same questions being asked on a regular basis so I thought we might start a thread so that people can post some simple tips/guidelines for people seeking answers. Just some things one should keep in mind if you're entertaining the possibility of coming to Japan for work.
Disclaimer: I am by no means an expert on this topic, and am only speaking from personal experience as well as what I have learned from other members. Feel free to contribute/contrast. etc.
1) Make sure you have marketable skills. Proven experience in your chosen field is a definite selling point (with the exception of Eikawa who like to hire fresh-faced college grads). Don't say you want to be an artist/illustrator for ex. and come to Japan with hopes of landing a nice job minus any sort of professional portfolio or published work. Common sense.
2) Research visa eligibility reqs. Make sure you have the necessary academic credentials to qualify. For more information, check out the following link.
VISA
3) Become proficient in Japanese. While not an absolute must depending on your position/employer, I find being able to communicate is a necessity more than a luxury and I think most people would agree. Not only will this help you secure a job but it will also make your daily existence much more enjoyable. Common sense.
4) Prepare well in advance. Living and working abroad for an extended length of time is a serious commitment. Do not be half-*** about this decision if you're not serious about achieving your goal(s). This is intentionally vague because you and only you can know for certain what your motivations are. Take your work and yourself seriously. Anything less will not cut it.
5) Remember, the most important thing is to ask yourself "What sets me apart enough that a Japanese employer would want to hire me over a Japanese for the same position?" Just because you've decided that one day you've had an epiphany and are going to come to Japan doesn't mean that it's gonna happen. In general, most Japanese study dilligently and work hard. You're going to have to be above the bar if you want to covet that job.
6) Research, ask around, search this and other forums for FAQs, guides to living and working abroad, and like-minded individuals who have already established themselves in your chosen field. Chances are, whatever questions or concerns you may have someone else has probably already voiced them. The internet can be a great asset that will help you gain clarity so as to not make the wrong decisions for yourself.
Well, that's all I can think of atm, I encourage others to add as they see fit.
Disclaimer: I am by no means an expert on this topic, and am only speaking from personal experience as well as what I have learned from other members. Feel free to contribute/contrast. etc.
1) Make sure you have marketable skills. Proven experience in your chosen field is a definite selling point (with the exception of Eikawa who like to hire fresh-faced college grads). Don't say you want to be an artist/illustrator for ex. and come to Japan with hopes of landing a nice job minus any sort of professional portfolio or published work. Common sense.
2) Research visa eligibility reqs. Make sure you have the necessary academic credentials to qualify. For more information, check out the following link.
VISA
3) Become proficient in Japanese. While not an absolute must depending on your position/employer, I find being able to communicate is a necessity more than a luxury and I think most people would agree. Not only will this help you secure a job but it will also make your daily existence much more enjoyable. Common sense.
4) Prepare well in advance. Living and working abroad for an extended length of time is a serious commitment. Do not be half-*** about this decision if you're not serious about achieving your goal(s). This is intentionally vague because you and only you can know for certain what your motivations are. Take your work and yourself seriously. Anything less will not cut it.
5) Remember, the most important thing is to ask yourself "What sets me apart enough that a Japanese employer would want to hire me over a Japanese for the same position?" Just because you've decided that one day you've had an epiphany and are going to come to Japan doesn't mean that it's gonna happen. In general, most Japanese study dilligently and work hard. You're going to have to be above the bar if you want to covet that job.
6) Research, ask around, search this and other forums for FAQs, guides to living and working abroad, and like-minded individuals who have already established themselves in your chosen field. Chances are, whatever questions or concerns you may have someone else has probably already voiced them. The internet can be a great asset that will help you gain clarity so as to not make the wrong decisions for yourself.
Well, that's all I can think of atm, I encourage others to add as they see fit.
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