Job Discussion Forums

bingx2 · Joined: 19 Oct 2011 Posts: 3

Hello everyone I have been browsing through these forums late night the last few weeks digging around for information regarding a similar situation as mine before making a post.

First a little history about myself. I am 25 years and will be graduating in July of 2012 with a BS in Healthcare Administration. I have always had the itch to at least work in Japan or stay for an extended period of time. Back in 2007 I had a 16 day lay over in Japan while traveling to the Philippines and I fell in love with the place. From 2007 until now returning to Japan usually finds its way to the top of my list leading me to return twice after for at least a month both times. For my annual trip I am once again returning to Japan for about 3 weeks in December - January to visit some friends in Tokyo, catch up on how things are after the big earthquake, and to experience some other things I have missed on previous trips.

My question is while traveling in Japan this December - January would it be a good idea to try to land a few interviews for after I graduate which would be in July?

Thanks very much for your help and guidance

seklarwia · Posted: Fri Oct 28, 2011 11:42 am Post subject:

For a summer start... probably too early since many employers won't know whether they'll have openings for the summer that far in advance. Some of the bigger employers might add you to a wait list, but then you'll likely be left waiting on a placement which may never appear.

Did you check out JET? You can apply whilst you are in your final year at uni.
The application process is lengthy, but if you're successful you'll come over next summer which will fit with your graduation.
But if you are interested in JET, you'll have to get a move on; the paper work is quite extensive and the application deadline is towards the end of November - check your Japanese consulate's site, for the exact date and more info.

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

Your time frame couldn't be worse. Late December to early January will find most if not all employers shut down. Don't count on making any contacts for job hunting then. If they are open, they will be deeply involved in the last class of the term or the very first, and they most certainly will be dealing with end of year parties and start of year parties. Nobody will be in the frame of mind to discuss job hunting.

While I don't doubt that you found Japan fascinating in only 16 days, you really have to take a reality check. Is that (and a couple of other short visits as a tourist) the only basis on which you want to dump a healthcare career that hasn't even gotten started, and try teaching? I strongly suggest that you read a lot more about what is really needed to be successful, or at least happy, in TEFL. Life on vacation is a far cry from living in another land where you are responsible for rent, utilities, commuting, creating lessons and presenting them properly, shopping in stores where you can't read labels, etc.

Are you thinking TEFL will somehow enhance your opportunities in healthcare after you return? (It won't.)

Cool Teacher · Posted: Fri Oct 28, 2011 12:28 pm Post subject:

I suggest yo u send out resumes and just see what the water is like. Cool

Maybe also tell them you can be in the country at XYZ time if they are insterested in talking to you.

God luck, sir! Wink

bingx2 · Joined: 19 Oct 2011 Posts: 3

bingx2 · Joined: 19 Oct 2011 Posts: 3

seklarwia · Posted: Fri Oct 28, 2011 9:24 pm Post subject:

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

I have never been an advocate of cold calling employers, and especially in Japan. Others may tell you differently, but in today's crowded market here, I just don't think it's worth it. If you feel you must do it, follow this advice.

1. As mentioned, call ahead. No sense in going in when the right person isn't there to take 5-10 minutes and sit with you.
2. Don't expect good English, though, if any English is spoken at all, by the staff.
3. Dress like you are going for an interview, even if all you do is drop off a resume and never spend a moment with anyone. Have seen too many people walk in with torn jeans, sweaty smell, and 5 o'clock shadow. Bad impression to me an American, let alone to a Japanese who values image even more.
4. Know what to put on the resume. It will not be completely like a western one. You should have a passport sized photo and info on marital status, visa/passport expiration, nationality, and date/place of birth.

They might be openly receptive to you, or guardedly polite. If you are lucky enough to find a place where a foreign teacher bolted during the holidays, they will need someone immediately, but what are you going to do then? You can't say you will fill in because you will need to take care of things back home, plus apply for a work visa first.

Cool Teacher · Posted: Sat Oct 29, 2011 4:14 am Post subject:

Cool Teacher · Posted: Sat Oct 29, 2011 4:15 am Post subject:

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

Marital status gives certain information that employers either want to know or need to know.

Need
They might have different salaries based on married/single status (and with kids).

Want
They might now want to hire a married person if they can only provide housing for singles (AEON, e.g.). At the very least, they will want to give a heads up to the prospective teacher.

Cool Teacher · Posted: Sat Oct 29, 2011 12:56 pm Post subject:

Inflames · Joined: 02 Apr 2006 Posts: 486

Cool Teacher · Posted: Sat Oct 29, 2011 4:07 pm Post subject:

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

If you are single, write single.
If you are married to a foreigner, write married.
If you are married to a Japanese, write married (Japanese spouse). You are likely going to have a spousal visa at that point (or should seriously consider getting such a visa anyway).
If you are engaged, write single. How you bring this up at the interview is up to you and may depend on how the 2 of you feel about being separated or needing to come here and live together.