Crafting the Perfect 'Jisho Shoukai' (Self-Introduction)
The self-introduction, or "自己紹介" (jisho shoukai), is the first impression you make in a Japanese job interview. It should be well-structured, highlighting your key skills, experiences, and motivations.
Step 1: Name and Basic Information. Start with a polite greeting, such as "はじめまして。私はリサです" (Hajimemashite. Watashi wa Risa desu - Nice to meet you. My name is Lisa). Then, briefly mention your educational background, for example, "東京大学で経営学を勉強しました" (Tōkyō Daigaku de keiei-gaku o benkyō shimashita - I studied business administration at the University of Tokyo).
Step 2: Work Experience. Detail your relevant work experience, focusing on achievements. For instance, "ABC 会社で 3 年間、マーケティング担当として勤めており、新製品のキャンペーンを成功させました" (I worked at ABC Company for three years as a marketing specialist and successfully launched a new product campaign).
Step 3: Skills and Qualifications. Highlight your language skills, technical abilities, and any relevant certifications. "日本語はビジネスレベルで話せますし、英語でも流暢にコミュニケーションができます" (I can speak Japanese at a business level and also communicate fluently in English).
Step 4: Motivation and Fit. Explain why you are interested in the company and the position. "貴社の SDGs への取り組みに共感しており、私のスキルを活かして貢献したいと思います" (I resonate with your company's commitment to SDGs and want to contribute by utilizing my skills).
Answering Tough Questions: 'Why This Company?'
The question "なぜ当社を選びましたか？" (Naze tōsha o erimashita ka? - Why did you choose our company?) is commonly asked in Japanese job interviews. To answer effectively, research the company thoroughly beforehand. Mention specific aspects such as the company's mission, products, or recent achievements. For example, "貴社の革新的なテクノロジーに魅了され、私のプログラミングスキルを活かして新しいソリューションを作り出したいと思います" (I'm attracted by your company's innovative technology and want to create new solutions using my programming skills).
Another challenging question is "あなたの長所と短所は何ですか？" (Anata no chōsho to tansho wa nan desu ka? - What are your strengths and weaknesses?). When discussing strengths, tie them to the job requirements, such as "私はチームワークが得意で、いつも目標を達成するために協力します" (I'm good at teamwork and always collaborate to achieve goals). When addressing weaknesses, show self-awareness and a willingness to improve, for example, "ストレスの多い状況では少し慌てがちですが、最近はタスク管理の方法を学んで改善しています" (I tend to get a bit flustered in high-stress situations, but I've been learning task management techniques to improve).
Negotiating Salary: Polite Yet Clear
Salary negotiation can be a delicate topic in a Japanese job interview. It's important to approach it with respect while also clearly expressing your expectations. Start by thanking the interviewer for the offer, "このオファーをいただき、誠にありがとうございます" (Thank you very much for this offer).
Then, state your current salary and explain your reasoning for the desired amount. "現在の年収は 500 万円です。貴社のポジションの責任範囲を考えると、600 万円程度が妥当だと思います" (My current annual salary is 5 million yen. Considering the responsibilities of this position in your company, I think around 6 million yen would be appropriate).
If the company has a fixed salary structure, they may explain it to you. In this case, you can respond with understanding and flexibility, such as "了解です。この待遇に納得いたします" (I understand. I'm satisfied with this compensation).