Japanese Job Interview -- (7) Japan's Job Interview Q&A

(7) Japanese Job Interview – Q&A

You may be asked various questions other than self-introduction and reason for applying. "Please tell me your weak points and strong points." "Have you ever failed at work?" and "What do you want to do at work after 10 years?" are common questions. Even if you have unexpected questions, try to "don't panic," "tell yourself clearly," "be open-minded" and "be humble." As a last resort, "Excuse me. I don't know." is better than something they can tell you're lying.

■Advantages and Disadvantages

It's a common question. They will check if your weak points will make a bad effect on the job more than your strong points. "My advantage is being persistent and never give-up spirit. In my previous job...", by adding specific examples from your previous job, it is easier for the interviewer to remember your strengths. About your disadvantage, you should refrain from talking things that might interfere with your work. For example, "My downside is impatience" or "I get bored easily" is the worst example. It is important to tell them that you are trying to improve your weaknesses, for example, "I sometimes forget time by concentrating on things, but for business, I try to act with time management in mind."

■"What is the most difficult (failed) experience you have ever had?"

They often ask about success stories, but at the same time they also ask the opposite. They want to know how you've overcome that failure or difficulty. You talk about the past event briefly, and then explain how you've dealt with it and what you've experienced from it.

They expect that the experience of overcoming failures will be of great help to them in the future. It is necessary to prepare your past work experience in advance, not only the successful cases but also the handling of the failed cases.

■”What do you want to do in the future in your work?”

This question is intended to check how much you are willing to work for the company and what you want in addition to your salary. Applicants who want to escape from their current situation may not even think about their future. And if you just want money, you might quit as soon as you find a better paying company. Those applicants will not be hired. Show them that you want to get a job with determination to overcome difficulties, such as "I want to become a person like…".