Explaining the advantages and disadvantages that returnees experience at work

I’m an American living and working in Japan for over half a decade. People often want to ask me questions when they find out that I live and work in Japan. Some wonder if the culture is a good fit and if it is, how they could find a job, get a visa, and live and work in Japan too.I’ll share my thoughts and feelings here as I try to answer some of the most common questions as best I can. I’ll tell you what I love, what I don’t love, and how you can get help with all phases of getting a job in Japan, from job hunting and resume preparation to getting a visa and developing your career. Q: What do you love about living and working in Japan?A: There are a lot of things I love about it. The food, the culture, the cleanliness, customer service, and ease of getting around all come to mind. In terms of work, I appreciate the salary, stability, and benefits. Japanese food culture is one of the strongest in the world. Not only is Japanese food some of the healthiest in the world but Tokyo has more Michelin stars than any other city in the world, and UNESCO recognizes Washoku as an intangible world heritage. Tokyo is dense with all kinds of restaurants representing a full palette of international cuisine. My first exposure to Japanese cooking culture was Iron Chef. I was not disappointed with the passion and craft that I experience in many levels of Japanese food preparation, although the portion size is considerably less than I was used to. Despite having very few public trash cans Tokyo is one of the cleanest cities I’ve ever experienced. There are beautifully curated and maintained public and private spaces in most neighborhoods, and people generally respect them by taking their trash home with them.   Customer service in Tokyo is also superb. The traditional concept of omotenashi—whole-hearted hospitality—speaks to the care Japanese culture shows for guests. While in the west we pay lip service to the customer always being right, in Japan the equivalent proverb says that the customer is god. The same attention to detail and care for okyakusama (customer, lit., honored guest) shines through in most of the service you’ll receive. The big drawback is that this can make working in Japanese markets quite demanding, as the level of expectation is equally high. Public transportation here is safe, clean, convenient, and prompt. Getting around, especially during rush hour on popular routes, may not always be the most comfortable, but most places are easily accessible without a vehicle.Work here tends to be long-term and competitively paid. In addition to my base salary, some benefits I receive include medical and dental insurance, a housing allowance, paid holidays, and reimbursement for transportation. Of course, salary and benefits can vary widely depending on the company and position. It’s always best to research before you dive in.Q: What don’t you love?A: While I do love many things about working and living in Japan, there are many contexts in which foreigners might experience cultural friction. Some more common friction points include work culture, the Japanese preference for group harmony over individual self-expression, “common sense” over logic, sempai-kohai, and ingroups and outgroups.Work culture: The cost of the excellent customer service and high-quality products customers expect is that workers often work long hours and put in a lot of effort. Team play is especially important, and it’s difficult in traditional Japanese companies for anyone to leave before the boss. Of course, in more globally oriented companies the work culture can be different, but it’s a good idea to know something about your prospective company’s work culture before you join.Another big difference between traditional Japanese companies and global corporations is the focus on group harmony over individual opinions—no matter how impassioned or logical the individual opinion is. Different cultures have different common sense, and that can take some getting used to. Where you might be encouraged to speak your mind in an international corporate setting, in a traditional Japanese setting most workers won’t share their opinions unless called upon to do so, and decisions are decided by the person or people in charge.In Japan, people with more experience are expected to teach and discipline those behind them, while junior members are expected to anticipate the needs of their seniors. As a foreigner, I have experienced less of this than my Japanese colleagues, but you should be aware of sempai-kohai culture before hunting for a job in Japan.Q: Japan is a small country. Is it all an ultra-modern mega-city like I see in manga and anime?A: While some parts of the major cities are indeed ultra-modern, the cities offer a variety of atmospheres, from very traditional temples and shrines, to gleaming, towering office blocks, to quiet residential neighborhoods. Inspired by zen Buddhism and Shinto, a deep love of nature pervades the country. Even within the cities, you can find large, meticulously curated green areas. Meanwhile, just a variety of outdoor options are just a train ride from the city. Hotsprings, hiking, canyoning, kayaking, paragliding, skiing, and snowboarding are all within easy reach. And travel within Japan isn’t the only option either. Its location makes travel to other destinations in the region a practical possibility.Q: Japan must be an otaku paradise, right?A: Yes and no. Yes, places like Nakano Broadway and the legendary Akihabara offer a plethora of options to delight every kind of geek. But the image of otaku is different here than at home, and it might still hold some stigma. There is plenty for the enthusiast to do and enjoy, but otaku culture is still a subculture. Q: I heard that Japanese people are closed-minded to foreigners. Is that true?A: Historically, that has been true to some extent. As I mentioned in talking about harmony above, propriety, and knowing your place within your group are very important here. Outsiders may make some Japanese people uncomfortable in some settings. But in recent years--as the population ages and birthrates decline--the government has taken a more global view. As a major tech hub, there are many international companies with offices in Japan. Naturally, in those offices, there’s a more cosmopolitan culture.Knowing something about the language and customs will be helpful, but in my experience, many Japanese people are open-minded and curious. Once you are in a social group, you’ll most likely be treated almost as family. As a world leader in technology and entertainment, Japan has adopted a more international worldview.Q: Do I need to know the language to live and work there?Some knowledge of the spoken and written language will certainly be useful, but it's possible to get a job in a high-demand field without it. In fact, if you’re passionate about it, English teaching positions are always available.Aside from English teaching, other high-demand fields in Japan include programming, engineering, nursing, manufacturing, and construction.   I’d recommend learning as much as you can about the language and culture before making the move, but once you’re immersed in the culture you’ll have plenty of opportunities to learn and speak.Q: How did you find the right job in Japan?The standard minimum requirements for a work visa in Japan are a four-year university degree or ten years of relevant experience in your field. After college, I really wanted overseas work experience, so I searched until I found a good agent who could connect me with suitable employment options.   Once I was scouted by the company I work for, they organized my visa, and I was off on my Japan adventure.If you, like me, are drawn to the allure of Japan, I recommend continuing to research, then connecting with a reliable agency. The right agency can make all the difference.▼Links（10）MOST COMMON QUESTIONS GAIJIN GET ASK IN JAPANhttps://jobsinjapan.com/japan-faq/most-common-questions-gaijin-get-ask-in-japan/What are the best things about being a gaijin in Japanhttps://www.reddit.com/r/japanlife/comments/xh4cfk/what_are_the_best_things_about_being_a_gaijin_in/A Tough Country for Foreigners to Live? What Japanese society has not been able to do and what we can start doing nowhttps://www.jnpoc.ne.jp/en/other/a-tough-country-for-foreigners-to-live/5 reasons foreigners find it hard to become friends with Japanese peoplehttps://japantoday.com/category/features/lifestyle/5-reasons-foreigners-find-it-hard-to-become-friends-with-japanese-peopleHalf-Japanese woman hands card to people who ask tiresome questions about her racehttps://japantoday.com/category/features/lifestyle/half-japanese-woman-hands-card-to-people-who-ask-tiresome-questions-about-her-raceExpat Community in Tokyo: Meetup Opportunities for Foreignershttps://www.realestate-tokyo.com/living-in-tokyo/tokyo-general/expat-community/Host and Hostess Clubs in Japan: What are they, where to go, and are foreigners allowed?https://we-xpats.com/en/guide/as/jp/detail/6228/A DAILY LIFE SUPPORT PORTAL FOR FOREIGN NATIONALShttps://www.moj.go.jp/isa/support/portal/m_nyuukokukanri10_00001.htmlGaijin Hanzai Magazine and Hate Speech in Japan: The Newfound Power of Japan's International Residentshttps://apjjf.org/-Arudou-Debito/2386/article.htmlIn modern usage how do Japanese natives regard the differences between 外人, 外国人 and 外人さん?https://japanese.stackexchange.com/questions/701/in-modern-usage-how-do-japanese-natives-regard-the-differences-between-%E5%A4%96%E4%BA%BA-%E5%A4%96%E5%9B%BD%E4%BA%BA-a

The way people work has changed dramatically in recent years, and telecommuting styles have become the norm in order to reduce contact with people. This trend has spread to workplaces in global environments, and telecommuting has been introduced in a variety of workplaces. Although companies in global environments have been concentrated in urban areas, it is possible to work in a global environment even in rural areas by choosing a workplace that allows telecommuting.However, many people may not know how to look for telecommuting jobs in a global environment. In this issue, we will discuss the benefits of telecommuting, the types of jobs that make it easy to telecommute in rural areas, the characteristics of people who are suited to telecommuting, and how to find a telecommuting job. For those who wish to work from home in a global environment, we recommend “GitTap,” a job site that gathers global environment jobs in IT.▼GitTap is HERETelecommuting Styles Are Expanding in Rural AreasAs more and more workplaces have introduced telecommuting in recent years, more and more people are moving to rural areas while working at the same place of work. Companies are also increasingly promoting telecommuting because of the high rents involved in setting up offices in urban areas. By adopting telecommuting, employees can live where they want, such as in rural areas or overseas, without worrying about the location of their workplace. Since the introduction of telecommuting is spreading to a wide variety of companies, we can expect the environment to become increasingly conducive to telecommuting in the future.In particular, global environment companies, which are more likely to adopt new ways of working, are more proactive in introducing telecommuting; according to a 2020 survey, the number of companies that say they plan to continue teleworking on a semi-permanent basis is significantly higher among global environment companies than among Japanese-affiliated companies. If you want to telecommute, you may be able to find a wider variety of jobs at global companies than at Japanese companies.Reference: テレワークの活用により地方移住が進展／いいかも地方暮らしAdvantages of Telecommuting in Rural AreasThere are five advantages to telecommuting in rural areas. Lower cost of livingSpending more time on your personal lifeImmigration support system in placeLiving in a quiet environmentLiving in a spacious houseLower cost of livingOne of the major advantages of emigrating to a rural area is the lower cost of living. Rent and land prices are lower in rural areas than in urban areas, and in some cases, food costs such as vegetables and seafood are lower in areas close to production centers. In many rural areas, a car is a necessity, but parking costs are lower than in urban areas, making it possible to reduce maintenance costs.Reference: 地方暮らしと東京暮らし。お金事情の差はどれくらい？／三菱UFJ銀行Spending more time on your personal lifeIf you work at a company where you have to commute to your workplace every day, you can spend more time on your personal life. If your commute to work is 30 minutes each way, you will spend more than 200 hours a month commuting. However, if you work from home in a rural area, you do not have to commute to the workplace and can spend that time on your personal life. Those who aim to improve their careers at work can also spend that time on work-related studies.Reference: 大阪から地方に移住してリモートワークしてみた／WantedlyImmigration support system in placeSome local regions offer immigration support programs in order to increase the number of immigrants. These programs provide financial assistance for emigration and support for finding a place to live and find a job. The details of the support programs vary greatly from municipality to municipality, so if you are interested in a particular region, please check the details of the support program in advance.Reference: 地方移住と「お金」のはなし／いいかも地方暮らしLiving in a quiet environmentBecause rural areas are rich in nature and have a smaller population than urban areas, the advantage is that you can live in a quiet environment. People who are tired of the crowds and hustle and bustle of the city can enjoy a quiet and relaxing life. The proximity to the ocean and mountains makes it easy to enjoy leisure activities and hobbies, and refreshing yourself on your own time will give you the power to work harder.Reference: 地方移住を決めた理由で多いのは？住む場所の選び方とは／壮瞥町の移住情報サイトLiving in a spacious houseBecause rent is cheaper in rural areas than in urban areas, it is easier to live in a spacious house than in urban areas. In urban areas, land is scarce, so houses are small, and the noise from neighbors is transmitted directly to your house because your neighbor's house is right next to yours. In rural areas, however, you can live comfortably and quietly on a large plot of land.Reference: 田舎で大きい家か都会で小さい家か？今田舎への移住が人気のわけ／田舎に家を買うSix types of jobs that make it easy to telecommute in rural areasWorking from home in a rural area has many attractive features, but not all jobs allow you to work from home. The following are six types of jobs that make it easy to telecommute in rural areas without having to go to the workplace.Web engineersWeb designers and illustratorsWeb marketersConsultantsWriters and editorsSalesWeb EngineerWeb engineers are engineers who develop and operate web applications and websites. Basically, you can complete your work only on your computer, so there is no need to go to the office if you can hold meetings remotely and share source code and design documents in the cloud. As long as you are connected to your team members on the network, you will rarely feel any hindrance in your work. In recent years, there has been a shortage of web engineers in Japan, so many companies are actively hiring foreign engineers. Therefore, one of the advantages of being a web engineer is that it is easy to build a global career.Reference: 未経験から在宅エンジニアへ！リモートで働くためのスキルや言語を紹介／SAMURAI ENGINEER blog Web DesignerWeb designers design web applications and websites. If you can communicate with clients and team members via remote meetings, you can work from home without going to the office.Reference: Webデザイナーはテレワークができる職種！／未経験からWebデザイナーへ！ Web marketerWeb marketers gather information on the Web and conduct marketing activities. They analyze and verify access histories and other information, select appropriate marketing methods, and develop marketing activities on the Web. Web marketers can work as long as they have a computer, so they can work from home without having to go to the office, as long as they collect necessary data and information in the cloud.Reference: Webマーケティングとは？Web担当者(Webマーケッター)の仕事内容／IT業界まるわかりガイドConsultantConsultants provide advice and support to companies by utilizing their expertise in various fields such as management, finance, human resources, and IT. Interviews with companies can be done remotely using web conferencing tools, so you can work from home without any problems. By building a career as a consultant in a global environment, you can also work with overseas clients in the future.Reference: 現役ITコンサルタントに聞いてみた！在宅勤務の実態【実際どう？】／ContactEARTH for ExpertWriters and EditorsWriters and editors write and edit articles for books and the Web. Writing and editing can be done at home, so there is no need to go to the office if you can communicate with team members and editors remotely. This type of work is particularly easy to telecommute for because it often requires individuals to work on a cohesive task.Reference: テレワークに向いている・向いていない職種とその理由を紹介／NTT東日本 SalesThe majority of sales work is customer visits, and switching to web conferencing for customer meetings makes telecommuting possible. Creating documents can also be done at home without going all the way to the office by uploading necessary data and information on the cloud. Telecommuting is especially easy for in-house salespeople. Telecommuting salespeople can also work globally for overseas customers.Reference: 営業はテレワークでも機能する？メリットや導入ポイントを紹介／NTT東日本Characteristics of People Suitable for Telecommuting in Rural AreasTelecommuting in rural areas has various advantages, but some people say that they transferred to a telecommuting job but it was not suitable for them. Telecommuting in rural areas is suitable for people with the following characteristicsPerson who is able to work spontaneouslyPerson who don't feel lonelyPerson who is able to self-managePerson who is able to work spontaneouslyTelecommuting basically requires thinking and acting on one's own, so people who can work on their own initiative in an environment where there are no team members or supervisors around them are suited. People who are passive and cannot do their work unless someone at work asks them to do it are not suited to telecommuting. People who actively communicate with others and offer suggestions for work are suited to telecommuting.Reference: テレワーク導入に必要な能力とは？向き不向きな業務や職種について解説／ChatworkPerson who don't feel lonelyTelecommuting in a rural area reduces contact with people in the workplace considerably, and opportunities to meet people for drinks or lunch after work are almost nonexistent. If you feel lonely in such an environment, a telecommuting workplace is not for you. Telecommuting is suitable for people who do not feel lonely alone and can work quietly.Reference: テレワークが寂しい4つの理由｜寂しさをなくすにはどうすれば良い？／株式会社オープンアップITエンジニアPerson who is able to self-manageWhen working from home, it is inevitably difficult to draw a line between private life and work. Telecommuting is not suitable for people who have a habit of slacking off, such as falling asleep in bed or playing video games when they find themselves out of bed. If you are the type of person who can manage yourself well, you will be able to perform just as well working from home as you would at the office.How to find a job that allows you to telecommute in a rural areaTo find a job that allows you to work from home in a rural area, try the following methods.Rely on Hello WorkUse your network of contactsUse job sites and agents Rely on Hello WorkSome of the jobs Hello Work offers allow telecommuting, so you can find a job by entering “telecommute” or other free words when you search. Hello Work has the advantage of not only being able to search for jobs nationwide for free, but also providing consultation and job search strategies. Many jobs are localized, so you can live in a rural area and find jobs in that region. You can also get information about unemployment insurance and job training centers, which is recommended if you want to use public services as well as job search.However, Hello Work has the disadvantage of containing poor-quality jobs because companies can also register for free. While there are many local jobs, it is also difficult to find jobs in global environment companies.Reference: ハローワークで仕事探しをするメリットは？仕事探しの方法も解説／JAICUse your network of contactsIf you have personal connections with staff at a global environment company that allows telecommuting, you can use those connections to get job referrals. Using personal connections allows you to convey a personality that cannot be seen from a resume alone, and has the advantage of making your job search relatively more lucrative. In some cases, you do not need direct personal connections to use them, so if there is a company you are interested in, we recommend connecting with them through business social networking sites such as Wantedly and Linkedin.However, no matter how many connections you have, it is not always possible to get a job change through them. There are also disadvantages such as difficulty in leaving a company if you use your contacts to join a company, so plan carefully when using your contacts.Reference: リファラル採用とは？導入のメリット・デメリットをご紹介／ビジネスプロジェクター ビジネスの現場で活用！実践的なノウハウ集Use job sites and agentsThe most common way to find a job is to use job sites and agents. Since many jobs are registered on these sites, it is easy to find a job that suits your needs. If you are looking for a company in a global environment, use a job site or agent that specializes in global environments. Some job sites and agents allow you to narrow your job search to telecommuting jobs, so you can efficiently search for global environment jobs that allow you to work from home. If you want to work in a global environment while telecommuting in a rural area, we recommend using GitTap”, which specializes in global environment jobs. The site only gathers global environment companies that actively introduce telecommuting and specializes in IT jobs that are easy to work from home, making it an efficient way to search for telecommuting jobs. Each job has an at-a-glance view of whether or not telecommuting is possible, so you can first narrow down your criteria to find a global environment job you are interested in.Create a career in a global environment while telecommuting in a rural area!In recent years, the style of telecommuting in rural areas has been expanding, and we have found that it is easier to work from home by choosing a company with a global environment. There are various advantages to telecommuting in rural areas, and IT jobs that require only a computer to complete the work are most likely to allow you to work from home. If you are self-motivated and self-disciplined, you can work from home and build a career in a global environment.To find global environment companies that offer telecommuting opportunities in rural areas, we recommend using job sites and agents that specialize in global environment jobs. GitTap,” an IT job site specializing in global environment jobs, has over 500 global environment jobs. You can filter whether or not telecommuting is available, so you can search for jobs efficiently. You can start by registering for free.▼GitTap is HERE

To develop your career as an IT engineer, you need to work in an environment where it is easy to advance your career. A representative example of an environment where it is easy to advance your career is a company with a global environment where your abilities are easily evaluated. By focusing your job search on companies in Tokyo, where there are many jobs and many excellent engineers, you can achieve effective career development.In this article, we will explain the advantages of working in a global environment, how to work for a company in a global environment while in Tokyo, and how to find a global company. If you want to efficiently search for global jobs in Tokyo, we recommend “GitTap” which specializes in global environment jobs.▼GitTap is HEREMore and more people want to work in a global environmentIn recent years, the number of people who want to work in a global environment has been increasing. Many Japanese companies have a seniority-based system, and it is difficult to get promoted if you are young, even if you have good skills. There is also a strong culture of respect for superiors, and many companies still retain values such as the difficulty of refusing a boss's invitation to a drinking party or the prohibition of leaving before the boss does. However, many companies in a global environment are meritocratic, and career advancement is possible if you produce results in your work. Because of the rationalistic and efficiency-oriented way of working, you are rarely bothered by unnecessary meetings and drinking sessions. The number of people who want to work in a global environment that is open and allows them to express their abilities in a relaxed and spontaneous manner is on the rise.Reference: グローバル人材の確保状況等に関する企業の意識調査／総務省What are the advantages of working in a global environment?As mentioned above, the number of people who want to work in a global environment is increasing because of the following advantages of working in a global company.Easier to build a careerHigher salaryWork in a diverse environmentImprove language skillsDevelop ability to respond and communicate effectively Easier to build a careerIn most cases, companies in a global environment place a high value on job performance. If you produce results in your work, such as improving operational efficiency or developing high quality systems, you can expect to receive a promotion and salary increase, which will help you develop your career. On the other hand, at Japanese-affiliated companies, even if you produce good results, in many cases you will not be promoted or receive a raise due to various factors such as length of service, age, or cliques. For those who want to pursue career advancement without being restricted by age or position, a company with a global environment that rewards results is the right choice.Reference: グローバル化が崩す年功制／日本経済新聞Higher salaryCompanies in a global environment will fairly evaluate employees who are capable and deliver results in their work. Therefore, the more results you produce, the higher your salary will be. In many Japanese companies, which are characterized by a gradual increase in salary based on seniority, if you work until retirement, you will eventually receive a higher salary and retirement benefits. However, when you are young, it is difficult to get a large salary increase no matter how much you achieve. For those who want a high salary from a young age, it is a great advantage to build a career in a global environment.Reference: 外資系企業の年収は日系企業の約2倍！その理由を徹底解説／35ishWork in a diverse environmentIn a global environment, you will naturally be able to spend time in a diverse environment as you interact with staff and clients from many different countries. If you work for a Japanese company in Japan, you will meet many people with similar ideas and values. By working for a company in a global environment, you will encounter new values that you have never encountered before. By becoming accustomed to non-Japanese ways of thinking and values, you will be able to adapt well when you have a career abroad in the future.Reference: グローバル企業で感じる”リアル”なダイバーシティー／noteImprove language skillsOne of the advantages of working in a global environment is that you can improve your English and other foreign language skills, as communication in foreign languages is necessary when you have many opportunities to interact with foreigners in a global environment. You will acquire business-level foreign language speaking, reading, and writing skills that cannot be acquired by studying at an English conversation school. In a global environment, English proficiency is a major factor in one's career, so those who have always been good at English may be able to aim for a better career than others by working for a company in a global environment.Reference: 【グローバル人材のキャリアに関する実態調査】93.1%が「英語力がキャリアに影響した」と回答／PR TIMESDevelop ability to respond and communicate effectivelyBy working with non-Japanese who have completely different cultures, ways of thinking, and ways of working, you will acquire a high level of responsiveness and communication skills. In Japan, the culture of “perceiving” is deeply rooted, so it is possible to have others understand your feelings to some extent even if you do not express your own opinions. However, in countries other than Japan, there is no culture of “perceiving,” and one's feelings cannot be conveyed unless one asserts one's feelings. By working for a global company, you will develop the ability to respond and communicate in any country.Reference: 今こそ言語化が重要！業務において不用な日本人の“察する文化”／北浜グローバル経営株式会社Examples of IT Global Companies in Tokyo where you can build your careerThe number of global companies in Japan is increasing, and it is not difficult to build a career in a global environment while living in Tokyo. There are many different types of global environment companies in Tokyo, but IT companies are particularly recommended. There is a high concentration of IT companies in Tokyo, and many foreigners work for IT companies due to the shortage of engineers. Therefore, many IT companies in Tokyo offer jobs where you can work in a global environment. Let's take a closer look at jobs at companies in Tokyo that offer a global environment.Reference: IT産業の東京一極集中の現状／大正大学地域構想研究所 Systems DevelopmentSystem development refers to engineers who create systems to improve the structure for smooth operations. System development requires a variety of skills, and one company in Tokyo is looking for a machine learning engineer with Python skills. This is a full-time position with annual salary starting at 5.5 million yen, and remote work is available if you live in Japan, so people who do not live in Tokyo can also apply. Required skills include experience in software development, working experience in machine learning, basic knowledge of security, and daily conversational level of English. Many of our members are non-Japanese, so you will be able to develop your career in a global environment.Reference: システム開発とは？手順や依頼時の注意点を紹介／発注ラウンジ Infrastructure EngineerTokyo, where many people live, has a well-developed infrastructure, and the existence of infrastructure engineers who design and maintain such infrastructure is indispensable. There are various types of infrastructure, and one company in Tokyo is looking for an AWS/Azure infrastructure engineer. If you have a career in building and operating AWS and Azure, you can apply for a full-time job with an annual salary of 6 million yen or more.Reference: インフラエンジニアとは？仕事内容や必要なスキル、キャリアパスを解説／type転職エージェント TesterA tester is a person who checks whether a program works without problems. Since large-scale development always requires testing, the existence of testers is indispensable. Especially in Tokyo, where major IT companies are concentrated, testers are expected to be in higher demand than in rural areas. Since many engineers are involved in large-scale development, there is also the possibility of communicating directly with foreign engineers. As testers develop their careers, they may be involved in development work, so let's build our careers in a global environment.Reference: テスターとはなに？仕事内容から将来性までわかりやすく解説！／RUNTEQ BLOGTips for building a career in a global environment in TokyoNot everyone can easily work for a company in a global environment. Here are three points that you should do in order to work for a global company.Improve language skillsClarify what you want to doUnderstand different cultures Improve language skillsCompanies in a global environment require a high level of language skills. Without a certain level of English proficiency, you will not even be able to enter a global company, so it is important to acquire a high level of language skills before changing jobs. It is said that to reach the level required to work for a foreign company, you need to have a TOEIC score of 800 or higher for English. It is important to acquire business-level English skills, focusing on English that is relevant to your industry. Some companies may require language skills other than English. If you want to further develop your career, learn a different language in addition to English.Reference: ビジネスレベルの英語力ってどのくらい？一般的な基準とオススメの勉強方法3選／Bizmates Blog Clarify what you want to doBefore working in a global environment, make sure you have a clear idea of what you want to do and in what direction you want to advance your career. If you do not have a clear idea of what you want to do, you will not be able to choose the right job for you. Whether you want to increase your salary, have a job you want to do, or improve your working environment, be clear about what you want before you start your job search.Reference: 例文14選｜面接で聞かれるキャリアプランを効果的に伝えるコツ4選／PORTキャリアUnderstand different culturesWhen you work in a global environment, you will work with people of various nationalities and values. If you enter a company without any information about different cultures, you may experience culture shock and find it difficult to do your job. Therefore, it is important to research different cultures before working for a company in a global environment. Just knowing that “some people think this way” will make it easier to communicate with others.Reference: グローバル人材に必要な異文化理解とは？／GTECHow to find global environment companies in TokyoThere are many global environment companies in Tokyo, but they are not easy to find using regular job sites. The following methods are recommended to efficiently search for global companies in Tokyo.Search by "Global" x "Tokyo"Use your contacts and SNSUse services that specializes in global jobs Search by "Global" x "Tokyo"In recent years, in the Internet society, various companies are posting job openings on their own pages. If you search for “global” and “Tokyo” on the Internet or general job sites, you will find a number of global environment jobs. However, it takes time and effort because there are so many and you have to check the requirements one by one. Use your contacts and SNSIn recent years, an increasing number of companies have introduced referral recruiting, which uses personal connections to conduct recruiting activities. Referral recruiting has the advantage of allowing you to work with real people who actually work for the company, but it also has the disadvantage of making it difficult to leave the company if you feel there is a gap after you join. If there is a company you are interested in, you can actively follow them on social networking sites such as Linkedin and Wantedly.Reference: なぜリファラル採用は導入が増えているの？─リファラル採用で入社した方・紹介した方の声6事例─／talentbook Use services that specializes in global jobsBy using a service that specializes in global jobs, you can efficiently find jobs in a global environment. For example, “GitTap”, a job site specializing in global companies, allows you to search for jobs in Tokyo. You can also set a variety of other criteria to efficiently find a global environment company that suits you. In addition to job sites, you may also want to consider the services of a recruiting agency that specializes in global environments.Let's build your career in a global environment in Tokyo!  In this article, we have explained the benefits of working in a global environment, examples of global IT jobs in Tokyo, what you should do before choosing a global job in Tokyo, and how to search for jobs. If you are interested in building a career with a global company in Tokyo, go ahead and take action based on the contents of this issue.For those looking for global IT engineer jobs in Tokyo, we recommend “GitTap”, a job site for global IT engineers. 600+ global environment jobs are available, so you can find the right job for you.▼GitTap is HERE

Working in a global environment is an experience that brings great benefits not only in terms of career but also in terms of life. However, many people find it difficult to work in a different environment, such as overseas. In this article, we will explain how to look for jobs that allow you to work in a global environment while living in Tokyo. By following the job search tips presented in this article, you can build your ideal career in a global environment in Tokyo.There are several ways to search for jobs in a global environment in Tokyo, but we recommend GitTap, a job site specializing in global environments. You can search for jobs based on a variety of criteria, not just where you want to work.▼GitTap is HERECompanies where you can build your career in a global environmentA global environment is one where people of any nationality can work together in a common language and understand each other. For example, a foreign-affiliated company or a Japanese-affiliated company that has offices around the world can be said to be a global company. With the development of science and information technology, globalization is progressing in various countries around the world, and working in a global environment is expected to become even more commonplace.Furthermore, it seems that in 2023, it is being coordinated that subsidies will be provided to companies expanding into emerging and developing countries in Asia, Africa, Central and South America, and other regions. Against this backdrop, there will be more and more opportunities to work in a global environment even if you work for a Japanese company.Reference: インドなどグローバル・サウス進出企業に政府が補助へ…ＡＩ生かせる事業など想定／読売新聞オンラインFive Advantages of Building a Career in a Global EnvironmentThe following are five advantages of a career in a global environment.Improve your language skillsGet paid for the results you achieveIncrease your market valueBroaden your values and perspectivesMore choices in life Improve your language skillsEnglish is often an official language in global companies, and you can improve your language skills through daily work. Because some companies deal with a variety of countries and regions, learning other languages such as Spanish, Korean, and Chinese in addition to English is also a big advantage. Research has shown that improving one's English language skills has a significant impact on one's job scope and annual salary, so language skills are essential for career development.Reference: 【グローバル人材のキャリアに関する実態調査】93.1%が「英語力がキャリアに影響した」と回答／PR TIMESGet paid for the results you achieveCompanies in a global environment, such as foreign-affiliated firms, often have an incentive system in place where you are paid only for the results you produce. Therefore, regardless of age or gender, if you make a profit, it will be reflected in your compensation. The advantage of this system is that you have a chance to obtain great results depending on your own efforts, sense, and skills, and it is easy to obtain job satisfaction.Reference: グローバル化が崩す年功制／日本経済新聞 Increase your market valueAnother advantage of working in a global environment is that you can increase your market value. For example, if engineers have the same specialized skills and knowledge, those who have language skills and experience working with foreigners in a global environment are more highly valued. Since many foreign engineers are working in the Japanese IT industry due to the shortage of Japanese engineers, having experience in a global environment will enable you to grow as a bridge with foreigners and as a person in charge of management.Reference: 7カ国中最下位…日本がIT人材足りない根本理由／東洋経済ONLINEBroaden your values and perspectivesWhen working with other Japanese people, it is easy to get caught up in Japan's unique customs and ways of thinking, but by working in a global environment with members from all over the world, you will learn to think globally as your ideas and values are held to a global standard. By working in a global environment with members from all over the world, you will learn how to think globally, and you will become more aware of the differences in cultures, values, and ways of thinking. Encountering a new culture can be a motivating opportunity.Reference: 異文化理解のメリットとは？異文化理解の必要性や注意点も紹介／Bizmates Blog More choices in lifeAnother benefit of working in a global environment is that you will have more options in life. If you work for a foreign company or a Japanese global company, you may have the opportunity to be posted overseas. Instead of staying in Japan, you may be able to experience life in a variety of countries and choose the one that suits you best. You will have a wider choice of jobs and work locations, and at the same time, you will be able to gain a broader perspective on the place where you live and the style of work you do.How to Find “Jobs in Tokyo” for a Career in a Global EnvironmentThere are four ways to search for “jobs in Tokyo” that will allow you to build a career in a global environment. Use a job site/agency that specializes in global environmentsUse a job site/agency that specializes in the type of job you are looking forSearch for companies in Tokyo that are looking for global talentUse your contacts and SNS Use a job site/agency that specializes in global environmentsTo find jobs in Tokyo where you can develop your career in a global environment, we recommend using a job site that specializes in global environments. The jobs listed on the site are all in a global environment, so you can easily find the job you are looking for by simply entering your criteria. The site also has information on job locations, so you can focus your search on jobs in Tokyo.There are few job sites that specialize in global environments, but with “GitTap” you can also narrow down your search by the percentage of English-speaking or Japanese staff. First, let's take a look at what kind of jobs are available in Tokyo.▼GitTap is HEREUse a job site/agency that specializes in the type of job you are looking forIf you know the type of job you want, one way is to use a job site that specializes in that type of job. There are many job sites that specialize in engineering jobs, nursing jobs, careers, and so on. Many job sites allow you to specify your desired location, so you can search for jobs in your desired occupation in Tokyo only. Search for companies in Tokyo that are looking for global talentYou can use Internet searches to directly contact companies in Tokyo that are looking for global talent. In recent years, some companies have their own recruiting websites, so it is possible to find companies in a global environment with the conditions and types of jobs you are looking for through an Internet search. However, please note that you will need to do all the necessary preparations for the recruitment process yourself, from making appointments for interview dates.Reference: 転職で企業への「直接応募」はアリ？ メリット・デメリットを解説／みんなの「転職」体験談  Use your contacts and SNSIt is also possible to search for global jobs that allow you to work in Tokyo by making full use of your personal network and SNS. In recent years, more and more companies are recruiting through their SNS accounts. If there is a company you are interested in, be sure to check their SNS accounts.You can also look for social events held in Tokyo or neighboring prefectures, referrals from friends and acquaintances, and global job postings. In this case, you need to determine whether the referrer or the company to which you are referred is truly trustworthy. Act with caution and gather sufficient information before changing jobs or seeking employment.Reference: 人脈を活用して転職活動？「リファラル採用」のメリットとデメリット／ミデアブログTips for looking for “jobs in Tokyo” where you can build a career in a global environment The following three points are important to keep in mind when searching for “jobs in Tokyo” that will allow you to build a career in a global environment.Improve language skillsClarify the reason for your applicationHave a global mindsetImprove language skillsLanguage skills are essential if you want to build a career in a global environment. Tokyo has the largest number of foreigners in Japan, and by 2019, the number of foreigners living in Tokyo will reach a record high of 550,000. Therefore, if you want to have a global career in Tokyo, you will need to interact with foreigners. It is important to improve your language skills so that you can communicate practically with foreigners. By improving your language skills, you can expect career advancement.Reference: 東京で暮らす外国人、過去最多の55万人 : 新宿区は全人口の12.4%に／nippon.comClarify the reason for your applicationWhen changing jobs, it is necessary to clarify the reason for applying to a company. If people think you are changing jobs for no particular reason, they may worry that you are not a good fit for one company. This can have a negative impact on your chances of being hired, so it is important to be specific about your reasons for changing jobs and to appeal each time.Especially in a global environment, there are situations where you have to actively express your opinions while working with foreigners. In order to show that you are a good candidate for a global environment with your own opinions and positive attitude, it is important to clarify your reasons for applying for a new job. However, too much negativity in your reasons for changing jobs will not give a good impression. Even if the reason is negative, it is important to convey a positive attitude, such as a reason for career advancement.Reference: 志望動機ってどれくらいに重要視されているの？書くべきポイントとは！／Geekly Media Have a global mindsetIn Japan, there is still a culture of being understood without having to say anything and of following the instructions of one's superiors. However, in a global environment, people are required to actively express their opinions and take on challenges without fear of mistakes or failure. In some cases, if you do not speak up at meetings, you may be regarded as unmotivated, so be sure to have a global mindset even before you join the company. In addition, you need to be flexible and not be limited to one set of values or way of thinking. In a global environment where you will be working with people with different ways of thinking, you will need to have a mindset that imagines the other person's background and what is best for the team. Having a broad global perspective and the ability to think flexibly and adapt to any situation will lead to career advancement and career change.Reference: グローバルな環境ってなに？／ZEN MARKET Check out the jobs in Tokyo and build your career in a global environment!In this article, we have explained how to search for jobs in Tokyo where you can develop your career in a global environment. Developing a career in a global environment has the advantage of improving your language skills and increasing your market value, where you will be rewarded for your achievements. In addition to the career benefits, a career in a global environment is also attractive because it broadens your values and perspectives, and gives you more options in life.To find a job in a global environment in Tokyo, you can use job sites that specialize in global environments to find a job efficiently. By referring to the points introduced in this article, you can build your ideal career in a global environment.GitTap, a job site for global companies, offers more than 600 jobs. There are many jobs available in Tokyo, so register and see if there are any jobs that match your requirements.▼GitTap is HERE

Many people who have studied abroad or have studied English want to build a career in an English environment where they can demonstrate the English skills they have acquired. By working in an English environment, you will be able to use the English you have learned and also make use of it in a business setting. However, if you have no experience even in an English environment, you may feel insecure about being hired.In this article, we will explain the key points, flow, and specific types of jobs that will allow you to successfully find and change jobs where you can utilize your English in an inexperienced English environment. To find a job in an English-speaking environment, please use “GitTap,” a job site specializing in global environments.▼GitTap is HERECan we build a global career in an English environment with no experience?If you have English skills, you can build a career in an English environment even if you have no experience in the job or industry you are looking for a new job in. If your English level is high, you may be welcomed by companies even if you have no experience. To be successful in an English-speaking environment, your English level must be at least as good as the level required for the position. Even if you have no experience, you may be able to use the skills you have acquired in your previous jobs in a different way, and you may be able to build a global career by moving to an English-speaking environment, even if you have no experience in the job or industry.Reference: 英語力は就活への影響大！ 求められるケースとレベルを徹底解説／PORTキャリアHow to build a global career in an English environment in an inexperienced positionThe following two methods are recommended for those who wish to challenge an inexperienced position in an English-speaking environment.Changing jobs at a foreign-capital companyChanging jobs at a Japanese global companyChanging jobs at a foreign-capital companyA foreign-affiliated company is a Japanese subsidiary of a company headquartered overseas. In many cases, foreign-affiliated companies require immediate ability to make an immediate impact, but in many cases, if you have outstanding knowledge, skills, or other characteristics, they may hire you because they see your future potential. Foreign-affiliated companies have such characteristics as English being the official language within the company and a meritocracy that allows for higher salaries based on results. Therefore, even if you have no experience, there is a high possibility that you will be able to play an active role if you have a high level of English proficiency.Reference: 未経験から外資系に転職する方法！プロが業界・職種を徹底解説！／すべらない転職 Changing jobs at a Japanese global companyWith the yen continuing its record-setting rise in recent years, more and more Japanese companies are expanding overseas. Japanese global companies are Japanese-affiliated companies that are expanding overseas. Although there are many Japanese people in the company, English skills are necessary to communicate with local employees and debate purchases when expanding overseas, so working for a Japanese global company allows you to develop your career in an English environment.Japanese global companies tend to seek individuals who have experience in overseas operations and a high level of English proficiency, even if they work in different positions. Differences from foreign-affiliated companies may include an emphasis on teamwork rather than individuals and the ability to contribute to the development of the Japanese economy.Reference: 【外資系企業VS日系企業】どちらに就職すべき？／エンカレッジ 7 Positions that can build a global career in an English environmentThere are many jobs that can build a global career in an English environment, but we would like to introduce seven main types of jobs.SalesConsultantInterpreter/TranslatorEnglish teacherTour GuideBuyersEngineersSalesSales is a job that requires good communication skills. If you have sales experience and English language skills, your communication skills will be highly valued when changing to a new position in a foreign-affiliated or Japanese-affiliated global company in an industry you have no experience in. Even if you do not have sales experience, you can easily get hired by combining your English language skills with the communication skills you have built up in your general office work experience.Reference: 未経験で営業に転職するには：アピールのポイントや例文を紹介／indeedConsultantA consultant is a person who pursues and solves the causes of problems faced by companies. It is difficult to work in an English environment in a typical Japanese company, but it is possible to build a career in an English environment if you work for a global or foreign-affiliated company. If you have high English skills that can be utilized in business situations, you may be assigned to overseas clients or projects for overseas expansion. Even if you have no experience, you can change jobs if you have the skills and knowledge required of a consultant.Reference: 【英語を活かせる仕事35種】選び方やレベル、想定年収まで徹底解説／神田外語学院Interpretation/TranslationInterpretation and translation services are often required for meetings and debates at foreign-affiliated companies and Japanese global companies. In addition to business scenes, there are also jobs to provide tourist information interpretation for travelers from overseas. Even if you have no experience, if your English skills are at a business level or native level, changing to an interpreting or translating job is not a dream come true.Reference: 未経験から通訳になるには？仕事内容と求められるスキル・おすすめ転職サイト／みんなの転職「体験談」。English TeacherThere are a number of ways to build a career as an English teacher in Japan, including English language classes for children, junior high school, high school, university, and adults. The level of English required at each of these schools differs, but in many cases, native English speakers are among your colleagues, and the basic prerequisite is the ability to hold smooth, everyday conversations. Inexperienced English teachers with good English speaking skills are greatly appreciated.Reference: 未経験から児童英語講師になるには？他業界から転職した先生2人の体験談【前編】／神田外語キッズクラブ Tour GuideTour guides accompany clients to various sightseeing spots in Japan and overseas to provide guidance, make various adjustments, communicate with local staff, and deal with problems. If you choose a company that only offers domestic travel, it is unlikely that you will be in an English-speaking environment, but if you choose a company that has many international travelers or inbound customers, you can develop your career in an English-speaking environment. Tour guides need to be able to speak English at a daily conversational level or above, as they need to interact with a variety of local staff as well as with clients.Reference: 観光ガイドに求められる英語力はどのくらい？日本の魅力を伝えるための、“がんばらない”英語学習法／logmi BizBuyerBuyers are in charge of purchasing and buying for department stores and mass merchandisers. Buyers of foreign-affiliated companies and Japanese global companies are required to have practical English communication skills at a business level or higher. Since you need to communicate accurately by yourself without an interpreter, you will be more likely to be hired if you have experience in sales in addition to a high level of English, even if you have no experience.Reference: バイヤーとして商品買い付けを成功させるための英語力／英語学習者へのエール EngineerDue to the shortage of engineers in Japan in recent years, an increasing number of companies, even general Japanese companies, are hiring foreign engineers. Furthermore, some foreign-affiliated companies and Japanese global companies, such as Rakuten and CyberAgent, have set English as their official internal language, making it possible to build a career in an English environment with multinational members.Many companies prefer to hire experienced engineers because engineering is a technical job, but there are many cases where inexperienced engineers are hired if they have a high level of English proficiency. Even if you have no experience as an engineer, you are more likely to be hired if you have IT skills such as programming knowledge and IT-related qualifications in addition to a high level of English proficiency.Reference: 3倍に増えた外国人ITエンジニアの背景や採用状況を解説／G Talent BlogHow to find jobs with no experience that can build a global career in an English environmentThere are four ways to find global jobs that allow you to build a career in an English environment, even if you have no experience.Use job sites and agents that specialize in English environmentsUse job sites and agencies that specialize in the type of job you are looking forSearch for companies looking for global talentUse your contacts and social networking sitesUse job sites and agents that specialize in English environmentsIf you are looking to build a career in an English-speaking environment, or if you want to work in a global environment regardless of the type of job, we recommend that you register with a job site or agency that specializes in English-speaking environments and search for jobs. Regardless of the type of job or industry, you can find a variety of global jobs that match your English level."GitTap", which specializes in jobs in global environments, is a job site that gathers jobs that make use of IT and English. You can search jobs by level of English required, percentage of foreign nationals, etc., so you can find your desired job in an English-speaking environment efficiently.Use job sites and agencies that specialize in the type of job you are looking forIf you want to use English to build a career in a specific job category, such as engineering or consulting, a shortcut to finding a job is to register with a job site or agency that specializes in the type of job you are looking for. Some positions welcome no experience as long as you meet the required English skills, so if you have a specific type of job you want to work in in mind, use these job sites and agents.Job sites are a way to search for jobs you are interested in by yourself by deciding on keywords and conditions, but if you find it difficult to search for jobs on your own, we recommend using an agent. "G Talent", which attracts global companies, can introduce you to jobs specifically for IT engineers. G Talent is a recruitment agency used by high-caliber foreign nationals, so it is easy to be introduced to jobs in English environment. Search for companies looking for global talentMany companies post global jobs on their official websites. Companies that post global jobs are looking for people who are proactive and willing to move on their own. Therefore, if the job is posted on the company's official website, applying from there may lead to a good impression with HR.Reference: 転職は直接応募が有利なの？メリット・デメリットを知っておこう！／イーキャリアFAUse your contacts and social networking sitesIn recent years, more and more job seekers are using business SNS such as Linkedin and Wantedly. Some companies may only post information on social networking sites, so if there is a company you are interested in, follow them and actively gather information. It is also possible to change jobs through connections, such as business partners or people related to the company you are currently working for. If you are introduced by someone you trust, the company will be more likely to accept you.Reference: 【ビジネスSNS解説】LinkedInとWantedlyの違いとは？／テクラボ Five points for changing jobs in an English environment for an inexperienced positionWhen changing jobs to an English environment in an inexperienced position, keep the following five points in mind.Be clear about your reasons for applyingOrganize experience and skills to match the companyShow your ability to adapt to the jobCommunicate enthusiasm for the job and specific career plansImprove English language skillsBe clear about your reasons for applyingIf you are changing jobs to a position or industry in which you have no experience, there are not many benefits to be gained for the company hiring you. Therefore, it is important to have a clear reason for applying. If you do not have many appealing points because you have no experience, it is important to first clarify your motivation and communicate it clearly. Also, be sure to show your humility and honesty in showing that you have no experience.Reference: 未経験職種に転職する場合の志望動機／転職HacksOrganize experience and skills to match the companyWhen changing jobs in an inexperienced industry, which is likely to offer few advantages to the company, it is not enough to simply show that you want to be hired. It is important to be able to convey specific appealing points such as “how you intend to utilize your past work experience. To this end, organize your past work history, qualifications, and other skills, and link them to your appeal points.Reference: 未経験だからこそ意識すべき！転職の自己PRポイント／GATEN職Show your ability to adapt to the jobWhen changing jobs to a job in an English environment, even if you have no experience, you will be required to have the adaptability to communicate with non-Japanese people. It is important to show that you have English skills, sales skills, communication skills, and other skills that do not directly relate to the new job description, but that you can adapt to the job. Show your ability to adapt to the job by sharing episodes from your past. Communicate enthusiasm for the job and specific career plansForeign-affiliated companies, which demand rationality, and Japanese-affiliated global companies, which are rooted in Japanese culture, place slightly different emphasis on points of interest when hiring. Foreign-affiliated companies tend to focus on enthusiasm backed up by appealing points plus a concrete career plan, while Japanese-affiliated global companies tend to focus first on enthusiasm for the job and then on a rough career plan. Although your strategy will vary depending on which company you approach, it is important to be prepared to convey your “enthusiasm for the job” and “concrete career plan.Reference: 【例文あり】転職面接で「キャリアプラン」を聞かれたら？ステージ別キャリアプランの考え方も紹介／リクルートダイレクトスカウト Improve your English skillsEven if you are proficient in English, it is essential to improve your English skills on a daily basis if you wish to find a job or change jobs at a global company in an English-speaking environment. Although the level of English required differs depending on the type of job, the higher your English proficiency, the easier it will be to get hired, and the easier it will be to familiarize yourself with the business after you join the company. It is advisable to acquire not only daily conversational level English, but also specialized English for business purposes.Reference: 業界別に解説！外資系企業で求められる英語力とは？／35ishYou can change jobs in an English environment with no experience!Even if you have no experience in an industry or occupation, it is possible to change jobs in an English-speaking environment if you have a high level of English proficiency and are well prepared. Make sure that your work experience will be useful in your new job by building your motivation and appealing points. If you are looking for a job as an engineer, designer, or other IT professional who can work in a global environment, we recommend using GitTap, a global job site that specializes in IT professionals. Not only can you expect to earn a high salary, but it can also be a turning point in your career and have a major impact on your life. Register with GitTap for free and find out what kind of jobs are available.▼GitTap is HERE