Job Discussion Forums

melisa · Joined: 15 Feb 2003 Posts: 6

I recently had an interview w/ WestGate and mailed the required documents to them. I've been informed that I'm on their 'waiting list' and I should 'expect a formal letter of employment within three months'. Has anyone experienced the same thing w/ WestGate? Are they telling the truth?
THANKS!
Melisa
[email protected]

barmadu · Joined: 03 Feb 2003 Posts: 43

I was told the same thing regarding the summer session, but when I informed them that I was interested in staying on, and working the year, they seem to have changed their minds. However, i have been reading less than flattering things posted about them lately. Some people claim that they have changed their contracts, and added many extra hours under the pretention that they are "extra hours" good luck

ajarn · Joined: 15 Mar 2003 Posts: 53

melissa, I interviewed back in mid December last year and found out just after New Year that I had a job starting in April. I received an email letting me know I had the position before any contract was sent out (it was sent out about a week or so later). I am expecting my COE (Certificate of Eligibility) this week so I can get my VISA. So far they have been extremely efficient with letting me know what's going on and lived up to what they said.

barmadu

barmadu · Joined: 03 Feb 2003 Posts: 43

I've basically seen them here, and on gaijinpot.com. I myself have turned down an interview recently with them, as they refuse to accommodate married couples in their lodging. Something that is neither negative nor postive I guess, simply their policy. Then it seems that the housing they do provide is expensive and have a lot of other "rules". People do say however, that it is at least a place to get your foot in the door in Japan, and the man that I was corresponding with seemed to be a really nice guy. Good luck in whatever you do.

klute · Joined: 02 Mar 2003 Posts: 17 Location: Tokyo

Being on the waiting list for Westgate has the same kudos as being on the waiting list for the guillotine.

ajarn · Joined: 15 Mar 2003 Posts: 53

Yes the rules WESGATE has regarding apartments may seem a bit much. I can understand your situation as a married couple. I saw a comment from one guy who said at 48 years of age he should be able to decide whether he can have people in his apartment after 10pm, fair enough. Also you can lose 50,000 yen if you don't clean the apartment to their satisfaction, that is excactly the reason I asked for a studio type apartment so I don't have to share with some pig who will cost me 50,000 yen. I found out today my request for single accomodation has been approved, so far so good (fingers crossed)

TokyoLiz · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Posts: 1548 Location: Tokyo, Japan

I went through the initial screening process with Westgate, but I too was turned off by the idea of curfew for my house guests.

The only other negative thing I've heard about Westgate is about beurocracy. Personally, I like a bit of guidance on the job, but some people may object to micromanaging your day/work schedule.

Good luck and knock 'em dead, ajarn!