Japanese Interview

 

Punctuality is a must, so arrive 10 minutes before a job interview. Prepare yourself - find out information about the company you want to work for. You will never get a second chance to make a first impression! Other than the candidate’s resume no specific documentation is required at the initial job interview.

Etiquette and harmony are very important. Relationships are hierarchical - older people have higher status than younger, men higher than women and senior executives higher than junior executives. Japanese are anxious to avoid unpleasantness and confrontation.

Greetings are very formal in Japan. A handshake is appropriate upon meeting. The Japanese handshake is limp and with little or no eye contact because the prolonged eye contact is considered rude. A slight bow to show respect and courtesy is a highly regarded and appreciated by the Japanese, so learn this standard way of greeting. It requires bowing, polite ways of addressing and the exchange of business cards. Always treat a business card carefully, never bend it or write on it, as this can be considered a direct insult.

Address Japanese by their job-titles instead of their names. Do not stand close and avoid touching. When listening to Japanese talking in English, it is very important to nod showing that you are listen and understand the speaker.

Japanese companies usually want someone they can train. Often they are not looking for people to come in and make a huge difference, but want a team player. So, they want to see how you would fit into their team with your education, work experience, interests and hobbies.

If you are not Japanese they would like to know what exposure you already had with the Japanese culture. They are searching for an answer to a simple question - can you really work here comfortably?

Do not sit until invited. Talk effectively demonstrating your knowledge of the industry and/or the company, do not interrupt the interviewer and criticize former employers.

Prepare for all kinds of questions i.e. your experience and accomplishments - answer them as fully as you can, avoiding yes and no answers. The personal questions about you and your family answer courteously and briefly.

Ask questions about the job, the lines of authority and your future responsibilities.

Japanese Interview Dress Code

It is important to demonstrate at the job interview good appearance as well as good manners.

The Japanese dress well at all times. A well-groomed, conservative look for men and women is advisable. Men should wear dark suits and ties. Women should wear dresses and suits avoiding trendy hairstyles, heavy makeup and jewelry.

Other Japanese Interview Info

If you received an invitation to a job interview, you may look at job interview techniques and other job search skills.

Don't forget to write a follow-up thank you letter. Employers regard this as an indication of your final interest in the position.

Good luck with your Japanese Interview!