Interview preparation is never easy but it becomes a real challenge when you have to attend an interview as a foreigner. It requires a lot of practice and understanding of culture. Instead of feeling bad or sweating, you need to follow this guide of interview preparation in Japan. Once you check it all, it's vital for you to prepare some interview answers for common interview questions that I'm going to explain below.

Introduce Yourself

Whether they ask you or not, you will have to prepareObviously, questions will differ depending on the company, the field and the job you’re applying for. However, here are some questions that will often be asked.

If you want to impress everyone, prepare bilingual answers. One in English and second in Japanese.

Your introduction doesn't need to be very complicated. It will be more like focusing on who you are, what you do, where you are from, and some good words like nice to meet you. 

Why did you come to Japan?

It is a question where you need to show interest not only in the job but also in their culture. Keep it natural and don't sound like a person who is trying to impress by using phrases or words he has no idea about.

• The more natural you sound, the better chance you have of getting their attention. 
• One important thing to keep in mind is to remain concise in your interview answers.
• Keep it to-the-point. 
• Stay away from off-topic discussion.
• A friendly smile is good, but don't crack a joke for the sake of losing the audience's attention.

Talk about industry, good points of company, and other aspects. Keep it very short but meaningful.

How long do you plan on staying in Japan?

Don't say that I will leave Japan, if I don't get a job. Be thoughtful. The strategy here is to plan a long term stay. Say that you want to blend with the community and want to join this country. Say that you are ready to contribute.

What do you like in Japan?

Again, be honest and don't use flowery language. Talk about culture, organization, values, and other aspects. 

Do you like Japanese food?

Never say "No". Don't say simply YES. Also talk about a few foods like Sushi, etc. 

What are your hobbies?

Japanese don't mind getting a bit personal, they will ask you about your hobbies and interests. Recruiters want you to be yourself, so they can review your behavior, explore your area of knowledge and interest.

Do you consider yourself capable of working in a Japanese environment?

Again, be honest but not blunt. If you are facing some challenges in this country, you shouldn't disclose them. Keep it to yourself. Your positivity and adaptability are the main testing points here. If you will be complaining, then it won't leave a good impression.

Remember, you always have to keep your tone positive. Stay away from complaints, negativity,etc. Paint yourself as a person who can leave even in the Jungle. I'm not saying you to exaggerate, but basically it's human nature that you will accept.

What are your strengths and weaknesses?

It is the most common question. They want to know how amazing you are from your strength. Don't say, I've no weakness or I don't feel like I have any. No One is perfect and a person without weakness doesn't exist on this planet earth. Always sound humble, accept your weakness and stay away from arrogant attitude. 

The reasons why you are applying for this company/job?

You need to state the reason in your resume for a Japanese job as well. It's important that you give the same reason in your interview as well.

What is your Japanese level?

If you have earned some crediton or N4 level JLPT, etc then it's time of proof. Recruiter check your language proficiency and test it. They won't go hard on you. But they definitely will be interested in testing your interpersonal skills. So, be ready to talk in Japanese or may be read.

How long have you been studying Japanese for?

Don't say I learn it within a month. Even when it's true, it won't make a good impression. Say that I've been studying for six months. I believe this language is so deep and I can't learn it quickly, although I'm a quick learner. 

When can you start?

Don't jump, please. It's a normal question. They want to check your availability. It's a good thing when they ask this question but don't rise your hope very high because it could be a general question.

Explore: How to Write a Resume in Japan

Why do you want this job?

It is a question that needs a thoughtful answer. Keep it short but impactful. Please never talk about money. You can consider adding your career goals in the answer. I believe that this job helps me pursue my career goals better than other options.

Why do you want to work for our company?

Here, your research on the company will come handy. Don't ever think of going to an interview, if you don't review mission, vision, and other aspects of the company. Check news about the company, read its current press release. Explore its social pages. I mean leave no stone unturned, if you want to be successful in a job interview in Japan.

What’s your commute time? 

Again, don't say it's long even when it is. Keep it general and information for your recruiter.

What's your Approach of Troubleshooting?

They want to know whether you are a problem-solver or not. Problems are part of lives, you can't say I feel panic or something. Instead, say that I look deep into a problem and come up with more than one solution to deal with it.