I spent about a month job searching from within Japan before accepting a job offer. It was my very first time job hunting from within the country, so I'd thought I'd share how I prepared for interviews!

It's important to note that the companies I have been interviewing with are Japanese owned companies, but they have an English speaking hiring department. So, I've interviewed with other Westerners, in English, and with an English resume. Therefore, my process will differ from those applying to traditional Japanese companies in Japanese.

SEND A CONFIRMATION E-MAIL

After receiving an invitation to an interview, I always reply back as soon as possible with a confirmation e-mail. This e-mail contains a thank you, a confirmation that I am available to attend the interview, and I restate the interview date. Sometimes I add on a, "If I should need to provide any further information or bring any documentation, please let me know." if the original e-mail didn't have anything.

RESEARCH

After the confirmation, I do some research on the company. I try not to do this the day of the interview. I try to do it at least a day before. I'll usually write down the companies mission, goals, philosophy, and interesting points or facts that I could bring up in the interview. I also research the location and map to get an idea of my commute to the interview place.

LOOK UP COMMON INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

I always try to look up some common interview questions pertaining to the job role just to gather my thoughts and pinpoint some skills and strengths that I think can align with the role I am applying for. This is especially important if you are applying to a role you've never done before. I don't try to memorize answers, but I write down some key things that will help structure my thinking during the interview.

PREPARE DOCUMENTATION

I was often asked to bring copies of certain documents, such as my residence card, diploma, and any licenses or certifications. I was also asked to provide passport size photos. Therefore, it's important to do these things ahead of time, just in case you can't do it on the day off (running late, copy machine broken, etc.) You can easily make copies at the convenience stores, and there are even photo ID booths around most stations to get your photo taken in.

PREPARE CLOTHING AND BAG

Most interviews in Japan are conducted in business professional. That means you need to wear a suit! So, make sure you have a cleaned and pressed suit ready to go. Also, make sure you have shoes to wear as well! Please don't make the mistake I did and wash my slacks and shirt the night before and come the morning of the interview, my pants weren't completely dry! Prepare in advance!

As for my bag, I put all my documentation inside of a file folder, as to not crease or bend anything. I also bring multiple forms of identification. As for miscellaneous items, I bring tissues or handkerchiefs to wipe sweat, mints for my breath, and a black ink pen.

DO SOMETHING PRODUCTIVE

The only way not to obsess over an interview is to distract yourself. I often opt to do something productive, like organize my closet, do laundry, or go grocery shopping. This helps take my mind off of the interview, and I also end up contributing positively to my life. Even if the interview does not result in a job offer, at least I did got something done, right!


GET A GOOD NIGHT REST

It's important to get a good night's rest for obvious reasons. Try not to stay up late worrying and obsessing over an interview because there are so many things that you can't control.

EAT A GOOD BREAKFAST

I try to wake up at least two to three hours before the interview and eat a hearty breakfast. I then get dressed and check my bag a second time and map out my route.

LEAVE WITH PLENTY OF TIME

Even if the interview place is close by, I try to leave with plenty of time to miss at least one train and still be on time! In Japan, there are plenty of obstacles, like delayed trains, weird alleyways and buildings, and so it's easy to start running late.

REWARD POST INTERVIEW

I always reward myself after the interview! This is important! We often beat ourselves up after the interview with things like, "I should have said this, or I shouldn't have done this." That's not very helpful. You should always give yourself a pat on the back for trying. Sometimes that's buying myself my favorite treat or not watching my favorite YouTuber until after the interview. It's small, but it's a pick me up after a long day!

We want to encourage ourselves to continue looking for jobs and putting ourselves out there.

POST INTERVIEW E-MAIL

I always send a thank you e-mail after the interview. Japanese sources recommend immediately after the interview or at the latest, the next day. I just thank them for their time and that I look forward to hearing from them soon.


Good luck and stay tuned for my future blogs on where I looked for jobs and what to do if you want to quit your job!