Hi there! I’m Aki, a Japanese former HR head from the global finance industry. Japan’s workplace culture is famous for its unique communication style, shaped by tradition, hierarchy, and a deep commitment to group harmony. For foreigners looking to thrive in Japanese business settings, understanding these norms is a must. Let’s dive in!

Hi there! I’m Aki, a Japanese former HR head from the global finance industry. After decades in HR, I’ve got a treasure trove of insights on Japan’s workplace culture—and I could go on and on ! Not every company fits these molds, but they’ll give you a solid idea of what to expect. Here we go!

1. Cultural Norms and Expectations

Hi there! I’m Aki, a Japanese former HR head from the global finance industry. I’ve conducted countless interviews with foreign candidates in Japan—solo, alongside hiring managers, and poring over feedback sheets. Based on that experience, here are my Do’s and Don’ts for landing a job in Japan. Let’s get you ready to shine!

Hey there! I’m Aki, a former HR head from Japan’s financial world. Thinking of coming/moving to Japan with a job in mind? Here are some paths I’ve seen work, complete with pros and cons to help you decide.