A person writing notes beside a laptop while preparing documents for a job application.  

Job Hunting in Japan

Job hunting is never easy. In fact, I would argue that it’s even more difficult in a foreign country where you may not even speak the language fluently.

The job process in and of itself is already very daunting, but add on applying for a great Japanese company, and you may need to think about whether your current resume will get you the position you are applying for.

Specifically, if they’re asking for a Japanese resume rather than your English resume, or even both, does your current resume cut it?

 

Words to Remember

Before continuing on, it would be good to know that there are actually two different types of resumes that you can submit.

履歴書 (Rirekisho) – A typical Japanese resume that lists all of your basic information, your educational background, employment history, and other personal details.

職務経歴書 (Shokumukeirekisho) – A detailed, focused resume that should include and focus on your professional experience, any skills and accomplishments that you have, whatever you have done in your previous positions, and so on.

Even if you understand how resumes work, it can be a bit difficult to express these skills and your background information in a natural way in Japanese while still sounding professional.

 

The Importance of Resume Translation Services

A blank sheet of paper on a clipboard beside a coffee and plant, representing resume writing and translation. 

Even if you think you can translate your resume yourself, don’t.

Understand that there is a bit of a difference when it comes to translating things word for word and actually creating something professional in Japanese on paper.

Really, just think of your resume as your first impression to the company. It can really make or break your odds of getting into the profession that you want.

And just as an example, I want you to think about how not everything translates directly between English and Japanese, or even your native language.

You may have a job title that makes complete sense in English, for example, but there isn’t a one-to-one Japanese translation that exists for that title. Whether it be for a university degree, certification, or even certain job responsibilities, that’s something to consider.

 

What Do Japanese Translation Services Translate?

There are many things that a Japanese translation service can do for you. Here is just a list of some of them:

  • English resume or CV
  • Japanese resume (履歴書)
  • 職務経歴書
  • Cover letter
  • Personal statement
  • LinkedIn profile
  • Professional certificates
  • Academic qualifications
  • Job application documents

Not to mention that a lot of these companies also do resume proofreading and/or editing. So even if you have already written your resume, they can help you with sprucing it up and making it better.

 

Don’t…Just Don’t Translate It Yourself

An office worker seen through the window of a modern building, representing professional life and employment. 

If anything, please just know that translation and localization aren’t always the same.

The goal at the end of the day is to make sure that your resume makes sense in Japan and in the Japanese job market.

Working with a Japanese translation company that knows and understands what a Japanese employer is looking for is well worth the money when you’ll make it back after you get your new job.

 

What About AI Translation?

The interior of a Japanese train with a passenger seated inside, representing commuting and working in Japan.

I know, I know. I’ll keep this part a bit short.

AI is a tool that can be very helpful when it comes to generating ideas for what to put in your resume and even correcting some things. And it can be very tempting to use it to edit your resume.

However, using AI to automatically translate your resume just isn’t going to cut it. When you really think about how your resume is a representation of you, it’ll make you not want to take that chance.

You want your Japanese resume to sound natural, professional, and like something that a Japanese employer would actually expect to see.

 

Translation Services

If you’re wondering where to start, here are just a few translation services in the Osaka area that may be good to try out:

  • WWTrans Japan (In Japanese. Please use your webpage’s translation)

Make sure to look through each company’s services and pricing before choosing one, as what they offer and the type of documents they specialize in can vary.

Extra!

And here is just a little extra from my research that may come in handy if you want to get started before sending off your resume.

 Resume Builder Info

Happy Resume Writing!

A laptop and computer mouse on a desk, representing online resume editing and professional translation services. 

Job hunting is never easy, so don’t make it harder by stressing yourself out over it.

I’m sure you’re amazing and that your work experience is going to open doors for you. It’s just a matter of making sure your greatness translates well on paper (specifically in Japanese).

I hope this article could help ease some of the worries you may feel when it comes to your Japanese resume, and just know, I’m sure that any of these services can help you.

Good luck! 🙂

Until the next article, please stay happy, healthy, and excited for working in Japan!

Stay tuned for more exciting content like this! Follow us on our social media platforms and check out our blog regularly to stay updated on the latest news, trends, and insider stories from Japan. Don’t miss out on future updates—sign up for our newsletter for exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox!