If you’ve been living and working in Japan, you’re likely familiar with some of the idiosyncrasies of Japanese culture (especially work culture!). But it almost doesn't matter how long you have lived in Japan, interviewing with a Japanese company can still feel daunting and frustrating. Whether you’ve been in Japan for a few years or decades, navigating the job interview process often involves dealing with long timelines, strict formalities, and indirect communication styles. Here’s why it can be tough—and how to make it less painful.

1. The Lengthy Hiring Process

One of the most common complaints when interviewing with Japanese companies is the long, drawn-out process. Multiple rounds of interviews can stretch over several weeks or months, even if you’re well-qualified and living in Japan. It’s especially frustrating if you are used to the quicker pace of job offers in other countries or industries.

How to Make It Suck Less: Since you already know this, you probably know patience is key in many aspects of life here—job hunting included. 

• Be sure to ask early in the process about the timeline and number of interviews expected. Knowing this will help you mentally prepare and manage your time around it. 
• If you are interviewing with other companies, let them all know! If they are interested in hiring you companies will often speed up the process to accommodate you. 

2. The Focus on Formality and Etiquette

Even if you have worked in Japan or a Japanese company for years, each company has its own expectations around etiquette. While you’re likely familiar with the importance of bowing and using polite language, the formality can still feel exhausting, especially during an interview process where you’re trying to make a good impression and it's just another (sometimes pointless) thing to think about. 

How to Make It Suck Less: You probably know the basics by now, but it helps to brush up on the specific formalities of the company you're interviewing with. 

• Tailor your approach depending on the company’s size and industry—larger, more traditional companies might expect stricter formality, while smaller or more international companies might be more flexible. 
• Ask questions about formality expectations in the workplace, so even if you make some mistakes, you can cover it but expressing a willingness to learn.
• Here is a guide for preparing for a job interview in Japan

3. The Emphasis on Cultural Fit Over Skills

The concept of "cultural fit" is something all companies look for, whether they are open about it or not. Japanese companies often prioritize long-term commitment and adaptability to their corporate culture above technical skills. Even if you’ve been working in Japan for some time, you might find that they ask about how well you’ll integrate with their specific way of working, rather than just focusing on your skills and experience.

How to Make It Suck Less: Leverage your familiarity with Japanese work culture by highlighting your ability to adapt to different environments. 

• Mention how your experience in Japan has already equipped you with the skills needed to navigate workplace dynamics and emphasize your commitment to contributing to the company's long-term goals. 
• Show how your past experiences have shaped your understanding of the balance between individual initiative and group harmony—a key part of fitting into many Japanese companies.
• Companies want to believe that candidates are "choosing their company" — acting like you are impressed with the company making the interviewers believe they have the "upper hand" works well in interviews. Performed humility will always be your friend. 
• If you are interviewing with a company introduced by Izanau, ask our job consultant about the corporate culture and what they are looking for. You can always contact us at info@izanau.com for advice on your job interviews. 

4. Indirect or Vague Feedback

The indirect communication style during interviews is difficult to get used to, no matter how many years you have been speaking Japanese. Companies often avoid giving direct feedback, leaving you unsure about your performance or where you stand in the hiring process. This lack of transparency can be stressful, and leave you unsure about how to approach the next interview.

How to Make It Suck Less: Be proactive in asking for feedback, but do so in a culturally appropriate way. 

• Phrasing is important—try asking, "Is there anything I can do to better align with the company’s expectations?" rather than asking directly how you did. This softer approach respects the Japanese preference for indirect communication, while still seeking useful insights. If you are able, using keigo (formal Japanese) in these moments will reinforce your understanding of the culture.

5. Lifetime Employment Expectations

Even though the lifetime employment system is changing, many Japanese companies still hold onto long-term commitment as an ideal. You may be asked questions about your future goals, with an implicit expectation that you’ll be with the company for the long haul. This can feel stifling if you’re used to moving between roles or companies every few years.

How to Make It Suck Less: Since you’re already familiar with the job market in Japan, you know the importance of showing loyalty, even if you don’t plan to stay with one company forever. 

• Frame your responses to show that you’re committed to contributing to the company’s growth and success, and emphasize your long-term goals in ways that align with the company’s vision. While you don’t need to commit to a "lifetime" with the company, demonstrating your willingness to grow with them will be appreciated.

6. Emphasis on Formal Qualifications

Despite Japan’s gradual shift toward valuing real-world experience, many companies still place significant importance on formal qualifications, academic background, and certifications. This can be exasperating if you have hands-on experience but lack some of the formal credentials they’re looking for.

How to Make It Suck Less: If you’ve been working in Japan for a while, you can use your experience to your advantage by emphasizing how your on-the-job learning has prepared you for the role. 

• Highlight practical examples from your previous positions to demonstrate that you can deliver results, even without formal certifications. You can also express a willingness to earn certifications if required, showing flexibility and a desire to continue improving your skills.

General Tips to Make the Process Smoother:

1. Research the Company Thoroughly: Understanding their culture, goals, and specific expectations will help you tailor your answers and show that you’re a good fit. Also, showing that you know and understand their products and are interested in contributing to them will work to your advantage. 
2. Stay Humble Yet Confident: Avoid appearing overconfident. Balance your knowledge of Japanese work culture with a willingness to learn and adapt to new environments.
3. Ask About Long-Term Expectations: Be open about your career goals, but frame them in ways that align with the company’s long-term vision. This shows that you’re both realistic and committed.
4. Use Polite Follow-Ups: After interviews, continue to use polite Japanese in your follow-up emails to maintain professionalism. Express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role.
5. Maintain Patience: The process may take time, but IZANAU's job consultants are always available to help you in your job search process. 

If you are looking for a job in Japan HERE are our latest job posts. Or you can contact us at info@izanau.com to learn about the latest job opportunities in Japan.