First impressions are extremely important, especially when you're looking for a job. We all know the process of job searching is tedious and it's even harder in a different country.

That’s why we at IZANAU want to give you all the tools you need to build the best profile possible so that companies will approach you! 

The IZANAU profile is designed for companies to get to know as much about you as possible in a limited amount of space. It has more flexibility than a traditional Japanese CV, so take advantage of areas that can be personalized so that you can stand out in the crowd.

STEP 1: YOUR INTRODUCTION

This is the most important part of your profile, it shows what skills you have and what YOU bring to the table, so don’t rush this section. Make sure it includes everything.

Don't forget to fill in ALL the details on the left side. Your visa status in Japan is vital information, as well as if you are willing to relocate. In addition, your nationality is information needed for the company to know if they need to sponsor your visa.

If you don't have a Japanese phone number that is OK.

STEP 3: YOUR SKILLS

This section might be that edge that makes an employer select you over anyone else. Often companies are willing to teach their employees on the job if they have specialisedskills.

• If you speak multiple languages, make sure you list them all, language skills are always an asset
• If you have experience working with specialised software or are able to draw diagrams by hand make sure you include all these skills.
• Even if you don’t think they could be valuable, an employer might be looking for a specific skill set that might be your key to a great new opportunity.

Achievements are equally valuable. Have you received recognition for something locally or regionally? Include that even though it may not be connected to the kind of job you are looking for.

If you have passed any JLPT exams or have any other kinds of certifications, this is the place to show it.

STEP 4: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

STEP 5: SALARY EXPECTATIONS

Of course everyone wants the highest salary possible but be practical. Do your research and find out what the average salary for your industry and experience is in Japan. If your salary expectations are too high, you might not get an interview.

Your rirekisho is not the opportunity to show your personality, but your cover letter is. In the past, submitting cover letters were not standard practice in Japan, but in recent years (especially for non-Japanese job applicants) the cover letter is a way for the recruiters to get to know you and decide if you could be a good fit for the company. Here are a few pointers when writing your cover letter:

• Keep it to one page
• Write it in keigo (formal Japanese) if it's in Japanese
• Name the position you are applying for
• Explain why you left (or are leaving) your last position
• Explain why you want to work for this company
• Describe what unique skills you have to fit the position
• Kindly request a response
• Sign your full name

• Everyone applying for the position wants to work in Japan. Don’t describe your interest in Japan or Japanese culture; it doesn’t make you unique. Take your time to outline what skills you have that can benefit the company.
• Demonstrate loyalty. It is still uncommon in Japan for people to switch jobs every few years. Companies are looking for people who want to develop their career within the company. Keep this in mind while writing cover letters and applying for jobs.
• Don’t show off. There is a clear line between showing confidence and boasting. Make sure you’re on the side of confidence. Japanese culture in general frowns upon overly showy attitudes, in addition all companies look for team players so make sure that comes across in your cover letter.

Everyone knows that Japan is a hierarchical society and that is demonstrated best inside a Japanese company. Large Japanese companies traditionally only hire once a year. Every April they bring in a new batch of recent graduates and groom them into the business through a process called haizoku.

New hires are rotated through every department of the company learning all aspects of the business and how the company works. As a result of this practice, some people get groomed to move up in the ranks as management and others remain as worker bees throughout their careers.

When working in a Japanese company it is vital to understand who is who in the ranking system and what connections and associations one has to another as shown in the table above.

Not included in the table is just one category, Dōki.

Dōki (同期) are the people you enter the company with. These connections will likely become the strongest ones you have in the company. Even as promotion levels vary, having the first experiences together as young adults develop valuable ties that can be seen throughout a career.

Your first day of work is full of first impressions. Make sure you know the rules, and put your best foot forward. Here are a few things to remember:

1. Know how to get to the office. Check the route on Google, calculate the commute time, and make sure you don’t get lost on the subway!

2. Wear a suit (with a tie for men). Unless otherwise specified, usually black, but dark grey or navy blue is also OK. If you don’t need to wear a suit, here is a general guideline on how to look professional at work.

3. Be EARLY. On time in Japan means 10 to 15 minutes early. If work starts at 9:00 am, make sure you are there by 8:45 at the latest on your first day, and everyday after that.

4. Make sure to bring all required documents requested by HR. This includes visa documents, work permits, bank information, and your personal stamp (inkan). In addition bring a pen and notebook to take notes.

5. Have your personal introduction prepared. You will need to introduce yourself to your co-workers so be sure to leave a good impression.

• Hajimemashite [your name] to mōshimasu.
  (初めまして、（your name）と申します。
  It’s nice to meet you, my name is (your name).
• (Your country) kara kimashita.
  (Your country) から来ました。
  I am from (your country)
• Kyōkara yoroshiku onegai shimasu.
  今日からよろしくお願いします。
  I look forward to working with you from today.

Other possible topics to include are:

• Your role in the company
• What you were doing before joining the company
• How long you have been in Japan.

6. Most companies have 朝礼 (chōrei ) or morning meeting/announcements. You might have to introduce yourself during the chōrei so be prepared, and it will be ok.

7. Check with your superior before leaving at the end of the day. Even if you may not have much to do first see if you can be helpful to anyone, then ask for permission to leave. When leaving make sure you say your proper goodbyes, which includes:

• Sakini shitsurei shimasu. Otsukaresamadeshita.
  先に失礼します。お疲れ様でした。
  I respectfully am leaving first. Thank you for your hard work today.

And there you have it; you survived your first day at work in a Japanese company. Wasn’t too bad was it?

For more insights on first day do’s and don’ts check out our article, “Making a difference on your first day at a job in a Japanese company.”