- Japan Tips
Japanese Language Learning and Job Searching
We are talking to many applicants every week. One thing we can say will 100% help to improve your job search, and your chances of acing your interview, is without a doubt improving your Japanese.
We are not a Japanese school, but we can recommend some tools that we have seen candidates used to help improve their ability, and secure their dream job.
Popular language platforms
Japanesepod101.com
Japanesepop101 is probably the best site to get started with, as they have a lot of videos and lessons that can be accessed even as a free user. The various paid plans are a pretty good value for the huge volume of resources.
Wanikani (wanikani.com)
Wanikani gets high marks for people trying to up their kanji competence. Their program promises to get you to the 2000 kanji level (pretty much the average in common use) in a year, which we think is a great way to up your skill level to help get a great position.
Anki (ankiweb.net)
Anki is a program for PC & web and an app for mobile phones to make flash cards and study with stacks of cards. It’s pretty famous among Japanese language students, and a lot of pre-made stacks for various JLPT levels, etc. already exist, making it easy to get going quickly.
Reading Practice for Hiragana, Katakana & Kanji
Navigating the path to a successful interview can be daunting, especially when it comes to demonstrating your skills in Japanese. Whether you are just beginning to grasp the basics or looking to polish your existing skills, mastering the art of reading hiragana, katakana, and kanji is crucial.
While learning Japanese, it’s important to note that Japanese is made up of three writing systems, or alphabets; hiragana, katakana, and kanji. Don’t worry, it’s not as overwhelming as it sounds! Having an understanding of all three will help you learn the language faster and more accurately.
We compiled a list of recommendations and summaries of some of the best websites around to help you practice reading Hiragana, Katakana & Kanji — whether you’re a complete beginner, or an advanced learner.
A last word from us
The bottom line is, while we don’t expect our candidates to be fluent, it definitely makes it easier for our recruiters to put you forward for positions when you have some Japanese ability.
For the jobseeker who, right now, has little or no ability, start using these tools to study a little every day. If our recruiter can say that you “are currently studying” Japanese, it’s going to help a little more than if you are not. If you are a year or more away from looking for a new job, start studying now so you’ll have a better chance at a great position when the time comes to make your next move!
If you’re interested in working in Japan, consider applying to be an ALT with us here at Interac. We provide an excellent opportunity to explore Japan, while earning a living enriching the lives of young people through language and education — and we’d love for you to join the community.