Decide what you want to look for before you actually start looking.
Do you want to work for a foreign or Japanese company? What are the pros and cons of each?
Do you want to work for a venture company or large organization? What are the pros and cons of each?
What industry do you want to work in and why?
Where do you want to be in five years from now?
Are you planning for the short term or long term?
Expatriates: How long do you want to stay in Japan?
Be selective about what you apply for: Don't apply for just anything!
If you're asking for more money, be able to justify why. For example:
Prepare answers to all of these questions to give you negotiating power
Network to get information (see Tip #1).
Read newspapers and business articles - stay up to date with current affairs.
Be perceptive about what's going on around you and be quick to seize opportunities.
If the company asks for a Japanese resume, prepare a shokumukeirekisho (職務経歴書), unless you are specifically asked for a rirekisho (履歴書).
Generally, an English resume is acceptable for most foreign firms.
There is no such thing as a "one-size-fits-all" resume. You should make your resume fit each job you apply for by altering the profile section of your resume
If possible, try to submit your resume to the line manager or the hiring manager in charge of the division you are applying to. If you cannot find the contact details or name of the line manager, then submit it to the HR manager.
Research the company before attending the interview. Go to the company's homepage and look at the Kaisha Gaiyou (会社概要/ Company Outline) or Kaisha Annai (会社案内/ Company Information) sections.
What is their market? Who are their competitors? What is their worth? Who are their major business partners?
Don't turn up to the interview knowing nothing about the company or the job.
Get as much information as possible about the role beforehand.
Prepare intelligent questions to ask in the interview.
Get as much information as possible about the role beforehand.
Be on time and look professional
Switch your mobile phone off.
Show some enthusiasm for the job.
Be prepared to explain why you want to work for the company.
Emphasise long-term commitment.
Don't discuss salary - leave this to the professionals (your recruiters).
Follow up afterwards with an e-mail expressing your thanks for the interview and interest in the position.
This article is provided by Wall Street Associates http://www.wsagroup.com
