Thinking about getting an internship in Japan? Securing an internship with a Japanese company is a fantastic opportunity that can significantly boost your career. The chance to immerse yourself in a new culture, learn from seasoned professionals, and gain valuable experiences is truly unique.
However, finding an internship in Japan is harder than it sounds due to the competitive nature of the job market and the unique business practices you need to understand.
So, if you’re looking to expand your skills and increase your chances of landing an internship in Japan, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Research thoroughly, network with industry professionals, and tailor your applications to highlight your adaptability and enthusiasm for working in Japan. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate the process and achieve your goals.
Finding an Internship if You’re Already in Japan
If you are in Japan and proficient in Japanese, you can look up companies you’re interested in and check if they offer internships. If you’re not sure where to start, simply do some basic research in the field you want to intern in. Once you find companies, check their websites to see if they offer any internships. Many companies nowadays offer internships, and it’s not too complicated to apply.
Just go to their website, read their guidelines, and fill out their form. You’ll probably have to show some of your previous work experiences and/or school projects and go through an interview. However, most of these companies operate entirely in Japanese.
If you aren’t fluent in Japanese, or if you’re outside of Japan and don’t know how to deal with lodging, food, culture, and others, the next section will answer your questions.
Finding an Internship if You’re Outside of Japan
If you’re outside Japan, you can still search for internship opportunities as described in the previous section, but it will be a bit more complicated. A lot of companies in Japan require you to be able to speak Japanese or at least have a basic understanding of the language. This makes it hard to find an internship in Japan if you have little to no Japanese language ability.
A great option is to find an internship agency. These agencies find internships for you and pair you up with a suitable fit. Many of these agencies know companies in Japan that offer internships without necessarily requiring you to speak or understand Japanese.
These agencies, depending on the package, can help with lodging, language and culture classes, and even cultural experiences. This is a great option since you will be set up with other people doing an internship in Japan, providing a supportive community.
You usually have to apply and go through an interview process. Once the internship agency accepts you, they do the rest of the work. They find companies that fit your interests and abilities. Usually, these agencies are foreigner-friendly, so you don’t have to be a fluent Japanese speaker to intern with them. If you choose to go with an internship agency, there are many benefits. However, they can be expensive. Unlike finding your own internship, these companies charge a fee. However, there are usually different levels, so you can pick the package that works best for you.
Some More Ways to Find Internships
A simple search like “internships in Japan” will give you a great list of internship options. This can bring up intern agencies or even random listings of internships. Narrow down your search, like “teaching English internships in Japan,” for better results. Searching “internship agencies for Japan” will also help you find helpful internship agencies.
Some more options to find internships are job websites. Many job listings or even social media channels like LinkedIn have internship listings. Another option is to seek help from professors if you are in school. Many schools have connections with companies. If your university has a Japanese programme, start there. Ask teachers for their help or advice in finding an internship in Japan.
What to Look for in an Internship/Internship Agency
While looking for an internship, try to find companies that want to teach you. Some places might just be looking for free or cheap labour, which is not what you want. You need a company that aims to help you grow in your field. It’s also helpful to find a company that is open and will let you try different things. During your internship, it’s beneficial to work on multiple projects and get acquainted with as many aspects as possible.
You should also look for work opportunities in the internships you get. Be forward-thinking. If you can see yourself working for a particular company, definitely intern there. Whether it’s an intern agency or a specific company, look for places that will help you understand Japanese culture. If you want to work for a Japanese company, chances are you are interested in working in Japan. The work experience is great, but cultural immersion is also very important. Find places that will support you in studying the culture (and the language if needed).
Also, if you are going to Japan, be aware of different locations. Tokyo is a popular spot for internships, but there are many other great locations like Osaka, Fukuoka, Hokkaido, and many more. Look at the benefits of different locations and find the one that fits you best. If you’re looking for an intern agency, search for the “best intern agencies.” Some awards are given, so start there. Also, check out reviews and personal testimonies of people who have found an internship with the intern company you’re considering.
Things to Avoid When Looking for an Internship in Japan
Try to steer clear of companies that won’t teach you and only want you for labour. Make sure to ask questions and find out what type of work you will be doing. You don’t want to be stuck doing mundane tasks like getting coffee, inputting repetitive data, or, in some cases, making cold calls throughout the entire internship.
When searching for an internship agency, find one that is priced fairly. Some companies are incredibly expensive, and they are not always the best option. Find one that is a good fit for you and is priced reasonably. Make sure the internship company offers support and is able to prioritise your needs.
More Tips When Looking for an Internship in Japan
Finding an internship can be stressful, so here are some things to keep in mind.
First, don’t stress. It’s important to try your best in the application process, but the most important thing is to be honest and do your best. It sounds cliché, but it’s the truth. Most companies realise you’re doing an internship to learn more and improve yourself. They aren’t expecting an expert. If you show them you have a heart that wants to learn, they’ll probably be open to having you.
Second, work hard. This one is pretty obvious, but it’s important. Even before you get the internship, do your research. Search different companies and research the types of jobs you want in the future. Don’t be afraid to study Japanese (if you’re not already fluent). Study the culture and read as much as you can. If you put in the work beforehand, people will notice and want you to intern for their company.
Third, try everything. This step is more for when you are doing your internship, but while you’re looking, don’t be afraid to search everywhere. This is a great opportunity. Try everything. Do everything. Get all you can out of your internship. If there are things you want to try, try them. If you have questions, ask them. Take in everything and make the most of your time there.
Fourth, ask questions. During the interview process, ask questions and learn all you can about the company you will intern with. Make sure you understand what will be expected of you.
Fifth, know your goals before finding an internship. There are many options available, and it can be overwhelming to just jump right in. However, if you know your goals and what you want, finding an internship will be much easier. For instance, do you want a big or small company? Do you want to go to Japan or work virtually? Are you looking for a company where you can get a job in the future? Where in Japan do you want to go? Answer these questions first, then start your internship search.
Finally, don’t put your internship on hold. If you can’t physically go to Japan because of the pandemic, you can still get an internship with a Japanese company. Most companies offer virtual internships. This is a great opportunity to gain experience working with a Japanese company and reap all the benefits of an internship while staying safe in your own home. The most important thing is to start applying. Don’t wait any longer for this great opportunity.
Starting Your Japanese Internship Adventure
Securing an internship in Japan is a remarkable step towards both personal and professional growth. Whether you’re already in Japan or searching from abroad, the opportunities are diverse and plentiful. By following the tips and strategies outlined, you can navigate the complexities of the application process, find the right fit for your skills and interests, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Japan.
Remember to stay open-minded, proactive, and prepared to embrace new challenges. Your internship in Japan will not only enhance your resume but also provide you with invaluable experiences and connections. So, start your journey today, and get ready to embark on an adventure that will shape your future in extraordinary ways. Happy internship hunting!
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