I recently received a question from a follower on how to find a job in the US using Japanese… but coming from a different country. Great question! Let’s dig in.
First and foremost, you have to know about the visa regulations for working in a foreign country. If your government has a website for it, read about the rules involved and the application process. The hiring company will be the one applying for your visa, so it would be in your best interest if you knew the visa application process best – especially if you’re coming from a country that they may not be familiar with.
Second, where do you want to live? Perhaps you love snow and want to snowboard as a hobby – then I recommend checking out the colder states in the north. If you want beaches, then a coastal state is where you want to be. If it doesn’t matter where you want to live, and using Japanese is your top priority, then I would zero in on US states that have the most Japanese companies, such as Michigan where I live (it has 500+ companies!). If you prefer the Japanese culture most, then find some states with the most Japanese restaurants, grocery stores and maybe even tourists – like Hawaii.
Third, it helps to better understand what you like to do. In this blog post, I ask questions to help you get started on figuring out your “why.” If you know your “why,” then it can help you focus on a certain industry or job role, which can be less overwhelming than syphoning through the millions of opportunities out there.
Fourth, start researching. Check out available positions on the many job boards, including mine: Nihongo Jobs! For example, are you looking for an entry level position and are good with computers? Then administrative assistance is something you can focus on, and that job search can lead to any number of industries. If you absolutely want to work with animals, then search for any related companies that perhaps need that language support.
Lastly, take a look at this blog post where I write about how to find a job in Japan. Some of the advice could be relevant to this topic, too.
Basically, think of a job search as an exciting opportunity to learn and try something new. I know most job searches are full of panic and stress, especially when you are desperate for income, but just try to take a deep breath, get a moment to yourself to do the above, and you will eventually get there. Don’t expect any job to be your dream job, either… having that kind of perfectionist attitude will not make only make you unhappy, but it won’t be good for your career. Your life is full of stages and stepping stones… just take it one step at a time. Good luck!
Do you have any advice or comments for other readers? Write your comments below!
