Key Interview Tips for Japan
- Dress Professionally & ConservativelyWear a dark suit (navy or black), a white shirt, conservative shoes. Avoid flashy accessories. For women, dark skirt or pants, modest make-up. The goal is to appear respectful and serious.
- Punctuality is Non-NegotiableArrive ~10-15 minutes early. If transit delays happen, contact the company and, if possible, get a train delay certificate. Being late without notice is viewed very negatively.
- Master Your Introduction & Motivation (“自己紹介” & “志望動機”)Be prepared with a concise self-introduction: your background, experience, reason for applying. Also clear motivation for joining the company — show you understand its culture, values, role, and how you fit in.
- Understand Japanese Etiquette / MannersBow appropriately, use polite language (desu/masu, respectful forms, avoid casual slang), wait to be invited to sit, greeting phrases (“失礼します”, “よろしくお願いします”, etc.). Maintain modesty and respect.
- Research the Company ThoroughlyKnow the company’s industry, recent news or projects, its mission/values. Relate your skills/experiences to what the company needs. This shows seriousness and preparation.
- Practice Common Behavioral & “Cultural Fit” QuestionsBe ready for questions like “Why this company?”, “How do you work in a team?”, “How do you handle pressure?”, “Are you ready to stay long-term in Japan?”. Use concrete examples, quantify where possible.
- Have Questions Prepared to Ask ThemAsking thoughtful questions shows interest. For example about team structure, work style, company goals. But keep them respectful, avoiding too direct topics (like salary too early).
- Closing & Follow-UpThank them politely at the end (“本日はありがとうございました” etc.), bow before leaving, wait for them to say “please sit” etc. Follow up with a thank-you email or note, showing appreciation and re-confirming interest.
How Dogpay Helps in Preparing / Entering a Job in Japan
| Scenario | Typical Cost or Financial Hurdle | Dogpay’s Value |
|---|---|---|
| Paying for certifications, translation or notarization of documents (e.g. diplomas, JLPT certificate) | Foreign translations / apostilles can cost and sometimes require cross-border payments; bank fees and FX spreads increase cost | Dogpay supports multi-currency payments, clearer FX rates, faster transfers, helps you collect and document receipts easily |
| Interview travel / relocation-related small costs | Commuting transit, printed resumes, interview clothes, etc., sometimes you pay beforehand from abroad or online | Dogpay lets you manage those small but scattered costs by consolidating payments, minimizing FX loss, tracking your spending clearly |
| Technology / setup for remote interviews | You might need a good internet setup, webcam, software subscriptions; possibly paying vendors abroad | Dogpay helps with payments to foreign vendors, subscriptions, with transparent fees and less delay |
| Job offer & initial admin fees (if any) | Some companies require administrative or legal paperwork, visa fees, bank account setup—some may require payment in foreign currency or via foreign banks | Dogpay accelerates cross-border payments, gives visibility on total costs, helps you avoid hidden transfer fees so you can start smoothly |
