Job Discussion Forums

patsensei · Joined: 06 May 2006 Posts: 27 Location: Tokyo

I`m in the process of applying for a position at a private Junior high school in the Tokyo area. They have asked for original certificates and then state that application materials will not be returned. Is this standard? I don't mind bringing the original with me to the interview and posting a copy but to just post off the original and never get it back is a bit harsh don't you think? I mean I will need them in the future. What would you do in this case?
thanks.

ripslyme · Joined: 29 Jan 2005 Posts: 481 Location: Japan

patsensei · Joined: 06 May 2006 Posts: 27 Location: Tokyo

yep. That is what it says in the application.

Squire22 · Joined: 06 Jul 2005 Posts: 68 Location: Shizuoka, Japan

My first thought at reading your post was....no way, they're having a laugh. As posted above, the flag thing.

They are your original documents, they are not easily replaced, even harder to do from a foreign country, and can be expensive to replace. If you decide to continue with the application - personally I'd think twice about it - then tell them you can show them the originals and they may take copies but that they cannot under any circumstances keep them. Also, I cannot think of any reason why any employer, school or otherwise should keep your original documents, they are after all, yours.

Regards.

Eva Pilot · Posted: Mon Dec 18, 2006 10:05 am Post subject:

Sounds a bit dodgy, maybe ask them for a better definition of what they mean, perhaps there has been some misunderstanding.

Dipso · Joined: 28 Apr 2004 Posts: 194 Location: England

An employer doesn't usually ask for your original certificates until you have accepted an offer of employment and are applying for a visa... Even then, they are returned to you once immigration is satisfied that you are suitably qualified.

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

I applied to a couple of places that asked for originals but was told they WOULD be returned. Just common sense. However, I didn't want to be without my originals of my degrees for fear they might lose or damage them. When I phoned and politely explained, they said if I could provide a copy of the degrees PLUS certified transcripts, that would suffice.

Call and ask. I mean, if you give them the originals, how are you supposed to have them for other applications, let alone for your own personal files? Perhaps just badly worded advertisement. Find out.

patsensei · Joined: 06 May 2006 Posts: 27 Location: Tokyo

Yep. I've decided to just send copies and write a small note on them something like: I will be happy to show you the originals should you wish during the interview.