Differences Between Japanese and English Resumes

Japanese Resume	English Resume

When applying for jobs in Japan, it's crucial to understand the key differences between Japanese and English resumes, not only in terms of language but also in structure, content, and cultural nuances.

This knowledge is essential for those raised outside Japan, unfamiliar with the local job application process.

Information and Format Variations

• Structure and Content: Japanese resumes, or "履歴書" (Rirekisho), typically follow a rigid format that includes personal information, educational background, work history, certifications, and sometimes personal interests. Unlike English resumes, the Rirekisho often requires a photo and personal details such as marital status and nationality. English resumes, on the other hand, prioritize professional experience, skills, and achievements, with less emphasis on personal information.

• Cultural Nuances: The inclusion of a photograph and personal details in a Rirekisho reflects the Japanese emphasis on formality and hierarchy within the business culture. English resumes focus more on individual accomplishments and skills, aligning with a more results-oriented approach common in Western business environments.

• Language Proficiency: For non-native Japanese speakers, the challenge of writing a resume in Japanese can be daunting. However, demonstrating language proficiency is a significant advantage in the Japanese job market. English resumes may be accepted in international companies or specific industries, but a Japanese resume demonstrates a commitment to integrating into the Japanese workplace.

Adaptation to Audience

The choice between a Japanese or English resume often depends on the company and the position being applied for. Traditional Japanese companies and roles that require interaction with local clients typically require a Rirekisho. In contrast, international firms or positions with a global focus may allow or prefer an English resume.

Understanding these differences and choosing the appropriate format for your application is a critical step in successfully navigating the Japanese job market. Tailoring your resume to fit the expected structure and content, while also highlighting your strengths and experiences, can significantly impact your job application's success in Japan.

See Also: How to Write a great Japanese Resume (Rirekisyo)

 

Do I Need a Japanese or an English Resume in Japan?

When embarking on a job search in Japan, one of the first questions many foreigners face is whether to prepare a resume in Japanese or English. The answer largely depends on the type of company you're applying to and the nature of the position.

 

Japanese Resumes for Traditional Roles

For most positions, especially those in traditional Japanese companies or roles that require frequent interaction with local clients, a Japanese resume (履歴書, Rirekisho) is essential. This demonstrates not only your respect for Japanese business practices but also your commitment to integrating into the Japanese work environment.

A Rirekisho is typically expected to be in a specific format, including detailed personal information, education, work history, and sometimes, reasons for applying to the company.

 

English Resumes for Global Positions

However, for positions within international firms or global-facing roles in Japanese companies, an English resume may be acceptable or even preferred.

These companies often value global experience and may operate in English as a working language. Submitting a resume in English can showcase your proficiency and comfort with the language, a valuable asset in these environments.

 

Understanding Employer Expectations

It's crucial to research the company and the specific job listing to understand the expectations. If a job posting is in English and specifies that applications can be in English, it's safe to submit an English resume. However, when in doubt, or if the job listing is in Japanese without specific language instructions, it's advisable to submit a Japanese resume.

In some cases, having both Japanese and English resumes ready can be beneficial, allowing you to respond flexibly to different job opportunities.

 

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the decision between a Japanese or English resume in Japan should be informed by the company's culture, the job's requirements, and the language used in the job posting.

While a Japanese resume demonstrates a willingness to adapt to local practices, an English resume can highlight your international experience and language skills, both of which are valuable in the globalized business landscape of Japan.

 

Start by Choosing the Right Resume Format

Selecting the appropriate resume format is a foundational step in crafting an effective application, whether you're applying for jobs in Japan or elsewhere.

The choice among a chronological, functional, or combination resume can significantly influence how your skills and experience are perceived by potential employers.

 

Resume Format	Focus	Ideal For
Chronological	Work History (Reverse Order)	Individuals with solid, continuous work history
Functional	Skills and Experiences	Career changers, those with employment gaps
Combination	Skills + Reverse Chronological Work History	Balancing skills emphasis with clear work history

Chronological Resume

This format lists your work history in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job and working backward. It's ideal for those with a solid and continuous work history, as it highlights career progression and development in a specific field or industry.

In Japan, where traditional employment paths are highly valued, this format can effectively showcase stability and experience within a particular sector.

 

Functional Resume

The functional resume focuses on your skills and experiences rather than your chronological work history. This format is particularly useful for individuals with gaps in their employment, those changing careers, or job seekers looking to highlight specific skills relevant to the job they're applying for.

While less common in Japan, it can be a strategic choice for foreigners who may have a diverse background or are entering a new industry.

 

Combination Resume

A combination resume merges elements of both chronological and functional formats, presenting skills and qualifications upfront, followed by a reverse-chronological employment history.

This format allows applicants to highlight relevant skills and experiences while also providing a clear timeline of their work history. It's a versatile option that can cater to various job application needs, including those of applicants in Japan who wish to emphasize both their skill set and their professional journey.

 

Tailoring Your Resume to the Job

Regardless of the format chosen, tailoring your resume to the specific position and company is crucial. This means emphasizing the skills and experiences most relevant to the job description and the employer's needs.

For applications in Japan, including language proficiency (especially in Japanese) and understanding of Japanese business culture can be particularly important.

 

How to Write an English Resume for Japan

Writing an English resume for the Japanese job market requires a balance between showcasing your skills and experiences and adhering to the expectations of potential employers in Japan. Here's a concise guide on structuring your English resume effectively.

 

Key Sections to Include

Section	Description	Tips
Professional Summary	A brief 4-5 line overview highlighting years of experience, key achievements, and notable skills.	Use numbers to quantify achievements where possible.
Key Skills	List of relevant soft and hard skills.	Prioritize skills that are directly applicable to the job and company you're applying for.
Languages & Qualifications	Include language proficiencies, especially Japanese level, and any other certifications.	Japanese language proficiency can be a significant advantage.
Professional Experience	Detailed work history, focusing on responsibilities and accomplishments.	Use bullet points to describe each role and achievement clearly.
Education	Academic background, including degrees and certifications.	List in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent.
Optional Sections	Any additional information that might strengthen your application, such as volunteer work.	Only include sections that add value to your application for the specific role.

Finalizing Your Resume

• Format Your Resume: Keep the font size between 10 and 12 points, using a clean and professional font like Arial or Helvetica. Ensure margins are 1 to 1.5 inches for a balanced layout. Make your name and section headers stand out by using bold or a slightly larger font size (no more than 14 points).
• Proofread: Thoroughly check your resume for any errors. Consider having a native speaker or professional review it to ensure accuracy and professionalism.
• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each position you apply for, highlighting the experience and skills most relevant to the job description.

An English resume for the Japanese job market should be carefully crafted to highlight your professional background while considering the expectations of Japanese employers.

By focusing on the key sections outlined above and ensuring your resume is well-formatted, proofread, and tailored to each job, you can create a compelling application that showcases your suitability for the role.

 

Finalizing Your English Resume for Japan

After meticulously filling out each section of your resume, paying attention to the final details can make a substantial difference. Here’s how to ensure your resume is not just complete but polished and tailored to stand out in the Japanese job market.

 

Formatting Your Resume

• Font and Size: Use a professional, easy-to-read font like Arial or Helvetica, keeping the font size between 10 and 12 points. This ensures readability while maintaining a professional appearance.
• Margins: Set your margins to 1 to 1.5 inches to create a clean, uncluttered layout that’s easy on the eyes.
• Headers: Make your name and section headers bold or slightly larger in font size (up to 14 points) to differentiate them from the rest of the text.
• Bullet Points: Utilize bullet points for listing information under sections like professional experience and education. This helps organize the details and improves readability.

 

Proofreading Your Resume

• Accuracy Check: Thoroughly proofread your resume to catch any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors. Mistakes can detract from your professionalism and attention to detail.
• Consistency: Ensure consistency in formatting, punctuation, and style throughout the document. For example, if you use periods at the end of bullet points in one section, do the same in all others.
• Feedback: If possible, get feedback from a native English speaker or a professional. They can provide valuable insights on language use and suggest improvements.

 

Tailoring Your Resume

• Customization: Adapt your resume for each job application. Highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the job description and the employer’s needs.
• Keywords: Incorporate keywords from the job listing into your resume. This can make your resume more appealing to applicant tracking systems (ATS) and hiring managers.
• Relevance: Always prioritize the most relevant information for the position at the top of each section, whether it’s in your professional summary, skills, or experience.

 

Conclusion

Finalizing your English resume for the Japanese job market involves careful formatting, thorough proofreading, and strategic tailoring to the specific job and company. By dedicating time to these final steps, you ensure that your resume not only meets the expectations of potential employers in Japan but also highlights your strengths and suitability for the position in the best possible light. This attention to detail can significantly increase your chances of securing an interview and, ultimately, the job.