If you plan to come to Japan and study at a language school, you know it will require a lot of time and money. It’s natural to wonder about your chances of finding a job in the Japanese labor market after graduation.
Although your Japanese language studies don’t guarantee a job per se, they undoubtedly increase your opportunities to find work in Japan.
Let’s review the main factors affecting Japanese employers’ hiring decisions.
Does my educational background matter?
Depending on the industry, employers may not prioritize the type of institution or major you studied. However, they value your education level, often requiring at least a Bachelor’s degree for many job offers.
For immigration purposes, completing a Bachelor’s degree or three years of equivalent higher education is crucial to qualifying for a general work visa. Two years of higher education or practical training might suffice in certain cases, like specific skills or industries. However, this could significantly limit your job options.
Employers may expect candidates to have a relevant diploma or certification for positions in specialized industries like IT, Design, Marketing, etc. However, substantial work experience can also be valuable. Networking with professionals established in Japan is a great way to understand your field’s requirements and prerequisites.
Do I need work experience?
Having relevant work experience is beneficial, so ensure your resume showcases your past experiences effectively. Being a fresh graduate without work experience isn’t necessarily a drawback in Japan. Employers often provide training to new hires and actively advertise entry-level positions.
As a student, consider taking on a part-time job while studying Japanese; this can enhance your chances of securing a full-time position with visa support post-graduation.
If you’re embracing a career change without education or experience, remember that Japanese companies often have a salary grid based on age. It may be difficult to enter the workforce if you are slightly older than average for an entry-level position.
Japanese Language Proficiency
We tackled the matter in our article on part-time jobs available to international students.
We discussed this topic in our article about part-time jobs for international students. Different job types and industries have different requirements. For most office jobs, you’ll need at least N3 proficiency, which lets you talk daily with colleagues. Having N2 or N1 proficiency can give you an edge in the job market.
Besides language skills, employers hiring foreigners want candidates who bring a cultural perspective and fit well culturally. They want someone who can communicate effectively in Japanese and is comfortable working with Japanese colleagues and clients. Studying at a language school can significantly enhance your resume in these areas.
Japanese companies know that Japanese language schools excel in teaching language and social and cultural aspects. They value former language school students because they have learned about business etiquette and manners.
It’s not about mimicking Japanese behavior but understanding and adapting smoothly to the local work culture. Employers highly value this knowledge and adaptability.
Job Search Strategies
Your first step should be your school. Japanese language schools offer job boards and assistance with resume writing and interview tips. However, doing additional groundwork is crucial, such as networking on relevant platforms, joining job portals, and connecting with recruiting agencies. You can also register on GaijinPot Jobs for an easy application process.
While information centers for foreigners won’t directly assist with job hunting, they are excellent resources to learn about work visa requirements and post-graduation options.
If you have any questions about studying or working in Japan, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at GaijinPot Study!