What is the typical interview process for Japanese companies?

Hello! Since you're interested in the interview process at Japanese companies, let me walk you through it. Having worked in Japan for several years and gone through this process myself, I'll explain it in plain language.

Think of the Japanese job hunting process as a "multi-stage game." It usually involves several rounds, tends to be longer than processes at many domestic (Chinese) or Western companies, and places a greater emphasis on "formality" and rules.

---

The "Standard Package" of Japanese Job Interviews

The interview process at most traditional Japanese companies, especially for new graduates (Shinsotsu) or larger corporations, generally follows this pattern. For experienced hires (Chuto Saiyo), the process might be streamlined, but the core stages remain similar.

Stage 1: 書類選考 (Shourui Senkou) - "Document Screening"

This is like the initial screening. You need to submit your resume (Rirekisho) and career history (Shokumu Keirekisho).

• 履歴書 (Rirekisho): Has a relatively fixed format, like a personal information sheet, covering your education, qualifications, contact details, and even requiring a photo. Standard templates are sold in stores or available for download online.
• 職務経歴書 (Shokumu Keirekisho): This is more like what we commonly call a CV. It focuses on detailing your past work experience and achievements. You need to specify the company, department, projects you worked on, and the results you achieved.
• Key Point: Japanese companies pay extreme attention to detail. Resumes must be free of typos, formatted neatly, and include a professional photo (business attire). They use this document to assess if you are a "meticulous and serious" person.

Stage 2: Written Test / Web Test (SPI / Web Test)

Before the first interview, many large companies have an online or in-person written test. The most common is the SPI Test.

• What is it? It doesn't test your professional knowledge, but rather your basic aptitude and personality.
  • Aptitude Test: Primarily includes verbal (Japanese vocabulary, reading comprehension) and non-verbal (logic, math, chart analysis) sections. The questions aren't difficult, but the time is tight, testing your speed and accuracy.
  • Personality Test: Involves answering hundreds of questions about your preferences and behavioral tendencies, e.g., "Do you prefer teamwork or working independently?" "How do you handle stress?" This mainly assesses if your personality fits the company culture and role requirements.
• Reminder: Don't underestimate this stage! Many candidates get eliminated here! It's advisable to practice with sample questions online beforehand to familiarize yourself with the format.

Stage 3: 一次面接 (Ichi-ji Mensetsu) - "First Round Interview"

Congratulations on reaching the interview stage! The first round is usually a "basic screening."

• Interviewers: Most likely HR personnel or junior colleagues/team leaders from the department.
• Purpose: To confirm your basic information, assess your communication skills and personal demeanor, and check your basic understanding of the company. They want to see if you are a "normal, easy-to-communicate-with" young person.
• Common Questions:
  • 「自己紹介をしてください」 (Please introduce yourself.)
  • 「なぜこの業界、この会社に応募しましたか？」 (Why did you apply to this industry and our company?) - This is a guaranteed question!
  • 「あなたの長所と短所を教えてください」 (What are your strengths and weaknesses?)

Stage 4: 二次面接 (Ni-ji Mensetsu) - "Second Round Interview"

This round delves into the "professional domain."

• Interviewers: Usually department managers, section chiefs (Kacho), or division heads (Bucho).
• Purpose: To deeply understand your professional skills and past experience, evaluate if you can handle the job, and assess your fit with the future team.
• Common Questions:
  • Questions will probe specific work experiences on your resume, e.g., "Please explain in detail the XX project you were responsible for."
  • 「仕事で困難だったことは何ですか？どう乗り越えましたか？」 (What difficulties have you faced at work? How did you overcome them?)
  • 「入社後、どんなことを実現したいですか？」 (What do you want to achieve after joining the company?)

Stage 5: 最終面接 (Saishuu Mensetsu) - "Final Interview"

Finally, the last hurdle! Also called "Executive Interview" (Yakuin Mensetsu).

• Interviewers: Company directors, executives, or even the President/CEO.
• Purpose: This round rarely focuses on specific technical details. Executives want to see your long-term potential, whether your values align with the company's, and your strong motivation to join. It's more like a "chemistry check" to see if you and the company are a good match.
• Common Questions:
  • 「当社の理念についてどう思いますか？」 (What are your thoughts on our company's philosophy?)
  • 「あなたのキャリアプランを教えてください」 (Please tell us about your career plan.)
  • They usually end with: 「何か質問はありますか？」 (Do you have any questions for us?) - You absolutely must prepare a few insightful questions!

Final Step: 内定 (Naitei) - "Receiving the Offer"

After passing all stages, the company will issue a "Naitei Notification" (Official Job Offer). This is a very formal commitment in Japan, signifying the company's decision to hire you. Details like start date and salary will be discussed afterward.

---

Some "Unspoken Rules" and Cultural Tips You Need to Know

1. Attire: Unless the company explicitly states casual wear is acceptable (Shifuku OK), always wear formal business attire! The standard "recruit suit" (Recruit Suit) is a dark suit, white shirt, and dark leather shoes. Men wear ties; women wear light makeup with neat hair. This demonstrates respect.
2. Punctuality: Absolutely never be late! Aim to arrive 5-10 minutes early. Arriving too early (e.g., 30 minutes) is also considered impolite, as it might disturb them.
3. Etiquette: Japanese workplace etiquette is extensive.
   • Knock three times before entering the interview room. Enter only after hearing "どうぞ" (Douzo - Please come in).
   • Upon entering, say "失礼します" (Shitsurei shimasu - Excuse me/Pardon the intrusion) and bow.
   • Sit down only after the interviewer invites you to, saying "失礼します" again before sitting.
   • At the end, stand up and say "本日はありがとうございました" (Honjitsu wa arigatou gozaimashita - Thank you very much for today), bow, and leave. When you reach the door, turn back towards the interviewer, bow again, say "失礼します," and then exit.
4. "Why Our Company?" (志望動機 - Shibou Douki): This is the core question every company asks. Never say things like "Because your company is famous/stable/close to home."
   • Research the company deeply: Understand its products/services, corporate culture, and recent news.
   • Connect it to yourself: Link your personal experiences, skills, and career goals to the company's characteristics. For example, "Your company's technology in the XX field is very promising, and my past experience in XX can be directly applied. I hope to grow together with the company."
5. Thank-You Email (お礼メール - Orei Mēru): On the same day after the interview, send a brief thank-you email to the HR contact or interviewer. While not strictly mandatory, it shows excellent manners and can significantly improve their impression of you.

Overall, while the Japanese interview process can be lengthy and intricate, it is highly systematic. If you prepare diligently, understand what each stage aims to assess, and demonstrate your sincerity and respect, your chances of success will greatly increase.

Good luck with your job search! 頑張ってください (Ganbatte kudasai)!