Job Discussion Forums

Mikazo · Joined: 18 May 2010 Posts: 13

I have an interview with a major Eikaiwa coming up, and would like to know whether it is better to wear a full suit or if a blazer or sport coat will do. I am being told that blazers/sport coats can look very nice and professional and are more versatile, but I'm not against getting a suit if that's going to make a bigger punch in the interview.

What are your thoughts? Thanks a bunch in advance.

southofreality · Joined: 12 Feb 2007 Posts: 579 Location: Tokyo

If you're determined to get a job in Eikaiwa, you're going to need a suit for work eventually (In most cases), so why not make the investment as soon as possible? Might as well show them exactly what they're getting, at the interview.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Want an edge over the stiff competition? Get a suit. They'll let you interview, of course, with suitcoat, but think professional here. Wear less than a suit during your classes if that's allowed, but as for the interview, don't skimp.

Mikazo · Joined: 18 May 2010 Posts: 13

Thanks for the input! I was kinda leaning toward a suit anyway.

Mikazo · Joined: 18 May 2010 Posts: 13

Does it make much difference what color your suit is during an interview with an eikaiwa? I tend to look best in brown, but wonder if that's just as appropriate.

Thanks in advance!

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Dark colors. Black preferably, then dark blue or gray, and then dark brown.

LaniB · Joined: 28 Jan 2010 Posts: 35

If it's AEON, avoid black. They do allow black with pinstripes but completely black is not an acceptable suit in their dress code.
Good luck!

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Look at pictures of AEON's web site. Lots of black there.

Of course, there is a super-dark total black color that is usually associated with ceremonies like funerals...

LaniB · Joined: 28 Jan 2010 Posts: 35

Calico · Joined: 20 Jun 2010 Posts: 54

To echo LaniB, I was recently at an AEON interview and we were all told that all black was not acceptable. Their dress code is really extensive. Not that it's a problem, but if anybody is planning on working for AEON then another type of suit is probably a better investment. (We were told it was "okay" for the interview, but not for working at a branch office.)

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

zeusbheld · Joined: 02 Oct 2010 Posts: 1

one question regarding the black suit--are we making a distinction here between a truly black suit, and colors like the darker variants of navy, dark greys, and 'charcoal' or not? most black-ish looking suits aren't truly black, any idea what the AEON party line is on this?

LaniB · Joined: 28 Jan 2010 Posts: 35

All dark colours are acceptable - including black with pinstripes. The reason they no longer allow black suits is because students were under the impression that a black suit with a white shirt was the AEON "uniform" when it was no such thing. There is also the idea that black suits are very sombre and should be reserved for funerals. I wore a dark charcoal suit to my interview and will be purchasing a navy suit before I leave to take up my placement.

Glenski, I believe the website photos were taken before they started their ban on black suits - it seems to be a relatively recent change, perhaps in the last few years. Those photographs are definitely staged! One of my friends is currently working for AEON and had to take a variety of staged photographs for her branch website. Hopefully I'm looking my best when I have to have mine done!