The Importance of Following Up
Have you ever applied for a job in Japan and never heard back from the company? You are not alone. It is a common issue that many job seekers face, and it can be frustrating and discouraging. However, what if we told you that following up on your job applications could make a significant difference? Studies show that HR professionals consider following up to be important, and it improves their impression of the candidate.
In Japan, where job hunting is a competitive and rigorous process, following up on your job applications can set you apart from other job seekers and increase your chances of success. In this guide, we will explore practical strategies for effective follow-up that can help you get hired in Japan.
1. Understanding the Japanese Job Market
Before diving into the specifics of following up on job applications, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the Japanese job market. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
● Traditional corporate culture places a strong emphasis on loyalty, respect, and communication.
● The Japanese recruitment process is typically structured and hierarchical, with an emphasis on face-to-face communication.
● Patience and persistence are important virtues in the job search process.
2. Why Follow Up on Your Job Applications?
Here are some reasons why following up on your job applications can be a game-changer in the Japanese job market:
● It demonstrates your genuine interest and enthusiasm for the position.
● It shows that you are proactive, responsible, and persistent.
● It provides an opportunity to clarify any doubts and showcase your strengths.
● It helps you stand out from other applicants.
3. When to Follow Up on Your Job Applications?
Timing is everything when it comes to following up on job applications in Japan. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
● Wait at least one week after submitting your application before following up.
● If the job posting specifies a timeline, wait until that timeline and an extra couple of days has passed before following up.
● If you haven’t heard back after more than two weeks, it’s usually safe to follow up.
4. How to Follow Up on Your Job Applications?
Now that you understand the importance and timing of following up, here are some practical strategies to help you follow up effectively:
● Send a polite and professional email or phone call to the hiring manager or recruiter.
● Mention the position you applied for and express your continued interest in the role.
● Ask if there is any additional information you can provide or if there is an update on the hiring process.
● Offer to provide references or answer any questions they may have.
5. Following Up After an Interview
Another important timing for a follow-up is after an interview. Following up after an interview can help you stay top of mind with the hiring manager and demonstrate your continued interest in the position. Here are some tips for effective follow-up after an interview:
● Send a thank-you note or email within 24 hours of the interview to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the position.
● Mention any highlights from the interview that resonated with you, such as a specific project or initiative the company is working on.
● Provide any additional information you may have forgotten to mention during the interview that could be relevant to the position.
● Ask about next steps in the hiring process and when you can expect to hear back.
Following up after an interview can leave a positive impression on the hiring manager and increase your chances of getting hired. It shows that you are proactive, respectful, and genuinely interested in the position.
6. Tips for Effective Follow-Up
To maximize the impact of your follow-up efforts, keep these tips in mind:
● Use the right tone: Your follow-up message should strike the right balance between being professional and friendly. Avoid sounding too aggressive or pushy, but also don’t be overly casual or informal.
● Keep it concise: Keep your message short and to the point. Avoid rambling or going into too much detail, as this can make your message hard to read and dilute your main point.
● Personalize your message: Avoid sending generic or mass emails to follow up on multiple job applications. Take the time to customize your message for each company and position, and mention specific details from the job posting or company website.
● Showcase your soft skills: Use your follow-up message as an opportunity to showcase your communication, organization, and attention to detail. Write a clear and concise message that demonstrates your professionalism and genuine interest in the position.
● Follow up multiple times: It’s important to be persistent and follow up multiple times, but don’t overdo it. A good rule of thumb is to follow up once a week or every other week, and stop following up after three or four attempts.
● Stay positive: Even if you don’t receive a response, don’t give up. Stay positive and keep searching for new job opportunities. Remember that following up is just one part of the job search process, and it’s important to stay proactive and focused on your goals.
By using these tips, you can improve your follow-up skills and increase your chances of success in the Japanese job market. Remember to be persistent, but also patient and respectful of the hiring manager’s time.
Conclusion:
Following up on your job applications or after an interview can be a powerful tool to boost your chances of success in the Japanese job market. By understanding the nuances of the Japanese job market and employing the strategies outlined in this guide, you can stand out from other job seekers and showcase your strengths. Remember, following up is not only about improving your chances of getting hired, but also about building relationships and establishing yourself as a proactive and responsible professional.
Check out our articles on Personal Branding Tips and Networking (link to article) to find out about more ways to stand out dutring you application process.
Good luck with your job search!
