Job Discussion Forums

[mikeffd]

Im going to Tokyo in about 6 weeks on a WHV. I have a few questions about how best to do in an interview. Before someone takes my head off for not doing a search, I already did one.

I'm sort of above average in size (6'3 215lbs), will that create any difficulty? I mean, would my size make an employer uncomfortable.

I know I'm supposed to wear dark colours.. so shoes, pants, blazer, and dress shirt that are all black - would that work?

What sort of personality should I reflect? Cheerful/Joyful or more serious? Very enthusiastic?

ALL info is appreciated.. the more the better.

Thanks!

[Glenski]

A black shirt with black pants and blazer... going for the Johnny Cash look? (sarcasm here)

Japan is very conservative. Wear a white or light colored shirt. NO black tie; choose a business-like pattern.

And, spring for a suit instead of a blazer if you can.

Your size may intimidate some, but they are pretty used to foreigners mostly being larger than Japanese. You won't be their first. Manners and attitude are more important.

Personality. Show an interest in what you are being interviewed to do. Know something about the company. Don't ask inflammatory questions. Don't brag. Show some enthusiasm towards teaching the group of students you may have. Chemistry with the employer is half the battle sometimes. They don't call it "edutainment" for nothing.

[Glenski]

A black shirt with black pants and blazer... going for the Johnny Cash look? (sarcasm here)

Japan is very conservative. Wear a white or light colored shirt. NO black tie; choose a business-like pattern.

And, spring for a suit instead of a blazer if you can.

Your size may intimidate some, but they are pretty used to foreigners mostly being larger than Japanese. You won't be their first. Manners and attitude are more important.

Personality. Show an interest in what you are being interviewed to do. Know something about the company. Don't ask inflammatory questions. Don't brag. Show some enthusiasm towards teaching the group of students you may have. Chemistry with the employer is half the battle sometimes. They don't call it "edutainment" for nothing.

[feisty-red]

I'd say a good personality will get you far. Meaning by that personable and friendly. Smile alot. Being attractive won't hurt.

All black? Goth or funeral babe? Yeah, no. Too scary.

I totally botched my teaching demo and still got the job. I feel this is due to my not losing composure and acting confident. And given an extra minute to point out what I did wrong, I fixed it.

Go, enjoy yourself, be friendly, and act professional.

[mikeffd]

Well, Im not at all good-looking but I can act professional. Thanks~!