Personnel needs of foreign companies

Foreign affiliated companies newly trying to enter Japan or established foreign companies seeking to expand their market share are always in need of capable people to make their business strategy a success. Even though each company and position is different some common characterics remain in regards to their personnel needs.

1) Proactive individuals with high energy levels

Even if a foreign company belongs to a big global group, the Japan entity is often small or mid-sized. Therefore, these companies are very concerned about creating the right corporate atmosphere for future growth. They need invididuals with high energy levels who go beyond their job description and don't give up even when hurdles arise.

2) Specific industry knowledge

The Japanese market is considered as very demanding across almost all industrial sectors. Foreign companies wanting to be successful in Japan need individuals with detailed market knowledge allowing the company to adapt their products, services and strategy to the Japanese market while not letting go of the overall goals.

3) Personal network

Despite the high penetration of cell phones and the Internet in Japan, it is still very much a country based on personal introductions and referrals. If you have a strong network in your industry or business, you could be a very valuable asset for the company.

4) Willingness to take risk

Working for a foreign company will always be somewhat risky. Often the companies have yet to reach critical mass or break even. The companies therefore require talented individuals who don't shy away from the risks involved and are willing to come up with innovative ideas to penetrate the market instead of overly worrying about the consequences of failure.

5) Ability to communicate

Last but not least, candidates working for foreign affiliated companies have to be excellent communicators. This is not necessarily a language issue. Of course the English skills are important but more than that can a candidate communicate freely with the foreign management?