Hello, I'm Shikha Chandrawat, and I'm excited to share my journey of finding a fulfilling career in Japan. At 23 years old, with a degree in Economics, I ventured into the vibrant and competitive job market of Tokyo. Starting my career as an Overseas Business and Strategic promoter at Tokyu Group, Tokyo from September 2024 has been both challenging and rewarding. My journey began with a solid educational foundation from the International University of Japan (IUJ), where I developed my skills and knowledge in International development Economics. However, one of the biggest hurdles was the language barrier. With an intermediate level of Japanese and proficiency in English, I had to quickly adapt to the demands of job hunting in a foreign language. Overcoming this barrier required daily practice and a deep understanding of Japanese business etiquette and common interview questions. Applying for 150 job positions through the CFN Career website, LinkedIn, and IUJ's career support services was no easy feat. Each application was tailored to meet the specific requirements of the companies, and I prepared extensively for interviews that were all conducted in Japanese. Understanding the motivations and interests of the companies I applied to became crucial. This meticulous preparation not only improved my language skills but also helped me convey my genuine interest and fit for the roles. For those about to embark on their job hunting journey in Japan, I cannot stress enough the importance of preparation and resilience. Start early, and make a concerted effort to improve your Japanese language skills daily. Familiarize yourself with common interview questions specific to your industry, and understand the company's culture and goals. Networking is essential, so use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals and leverage your university's career support services. Additionally, have a backup plan, such as teaching English, to ensure financial stability while pursuing your primary career goals. Embrace every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow, and stay adaptable and persistent. My journey to securing a role at Tokyu Group, Tokyo has taught me the value of resilience and strategic planning. The experience has been enriching and has opened doors to numerous opportunities. I hope my story inspires and guides you as you navigate your career path in Japan. Thank you for allowing me to share my experience, and best of luck on your journey!
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