Is there anything in particular I should keep in mind during company screenings and interviews?

More important than your Japanese proficiency is making the interviewer feel that they “want to work with you.”

1. Greetings and Facial Expressions (First Impression)
・At the start of the interview: “Yoroshiku onegai shimasu” (Nice to meet you)
・At the end of the interview: “Arigatō gozaimashita” (Thank you very much)
It’s important to maintain eye contact and speak in a clear, confident voice.

2. Punctuality
In Japan, punctuality is very important.
・In-person interviews: Arrive 10–15 minutes early
・Online interviews: Log in 10 minutes early
* If you think you might be late, be sure to contact them in advance.

3. Be Open and Honest
・If you don’t understand a question, it’s perfectly fine to say, “Could you please repeat that?”
・Being honest makes a better impression than answering without fully understanding the question.

4. Examples of Commonly Asked Questions
・Why do you want to work in Japan?
・Do you have a specific plan for how you’ll use your earnings? (e.g., sending money to family)
・Can you persevere even when the work gets tough?

It’s a good idea to prepare in advance so you can explain your thoughts and reasons in simple Japanese.

CROSSY GLOBAL.jobs also offers interview practice and advice.