Why Japan Hates Foreigners WORKING in Japanese companies

[@WyckedAnkh]

“In Western society, if you put yourself last, you end up last, and you’re kind of an idiot.” 😂😂 hilarious but so true! I love that you said that Cathy!

[@bishop51807]

Yeah, we have that dont be the runt of the litter mentality.

[@537monster]

It actually depends on where you work. In some workplaces, if you are an overly ambitious asshole (and you aren’t a team player) you can make a lot of enemies. If you piss off the guy in charge, in particular, you’re pretty much doomed to never get promoted. Or worse.

[@TDK2K]

Cuz if you're not assertive in the west you'll be walked all over and be a yesman...like how they are in Japan and other East Asian countries.

[@introvertdude99]

It’s looked down on if your humble which is backwards.

[@chobai9996]

Honestly.. it's the same everywhere. Different cultures may have a different veneer over it, but at the end of the day humans are humans, you end up seeing similar behaviours in all groups of people. Besides...how do you think CEOs and other top people get to the top in Japan, by putting themselves last? No, of course not...

[@NinjaMaruSensei]

That is the reason why foreigner in Japan become KZbinr. 😄😄😄

[@LeafGreen906]

😂😂😂

[@locksmith3208]

💀💀💀

[@maiyenish8552]

RIGHT! They don't go out drinking, so they have a tremendous amount of time on their hands..... what to do....... CREATOR!

[@sippingsometaeandkookie9613]

Fr😂😂😂

[@dslight113]

true , i was thinking of doing this myself lol.

[@drewnayr1188]

None of my Japanese friends actually like the drinking/dinner functions, they call it unpaid overtime. I personally wouldn't be caught dead drinking with all my coworkers, save for the one or 2 I consider friends.

[@maiyenish8552]

Expect to fail in Japan.

[@edamameme1789]

@@maiyenish8552 Basically, but not just Japan.European countries (some) also have heavy drinking cultures that span outside of work. You'll lose out on social relations in and out of work, if you dont go drinking.

[@BoltRM]

As a single guy without kids, I enjoyed going out for a drink,but we only did at most once a week for a couple of hours

[@NetAndyCz]

@@edamameme1789 I think it depends, in my country drinking is really common (and smoking not so uncommon), and I was able to resist the temptations, and yes, you may lose out on some social interaction, but it is possible to explain to people and you can even find like minded individuals that can enjoy free time in other ways. I would say it may be harder to bond without drinking, but you also might make more profond and personal connection.

[@drewnayr1188]

@@maiyenish8552 I work for an American company, thanks.

[@Romy-90]

I'm from Germany like Cathy and most employees probably wouldn't endure this kind of work environment. Yes, we have the reputation of being "rude", but honestly: I'd rather be "rude" than let my boss/colleagues walk all over me and be able to open my mouth and voice my opinions at work.

[@BlazinNSoul]

I don't think Germans are that rude maybe abrupt. Kinda of like India which also can come off as being a bit short. But overall I think one just has to get to know them. Still Germans rank in the top two countries in Innovation and are among the most open when people make an effort learning at least some of their language and culture. Far as being rude to my boss never!! Really can't get away with that here in America these days. Germans I think are better at speaking their minds than we are lol.

[@Romy-90]

@@BlazinNSoul I think that's exactly it. We are very straightforward and that can be considered rude, which I absolutely understand if you're not used to it. And honestly, being unfriendly to your boss is never a good attitude anywhere in the world 😂 but you're still human and not the company's slave and at least here in GER I feel like I could be more vocal about it.

[@bishop51807]

In America bending over backwards like that job, we call being a yes-man or a suck up. It can cost a company money, if you don't speak up about harmful decisions, people in management may be making.

[@rotemplatino91]

I worked with germans before here in México and I didn't had any problems with them at all. Argentinians in the other hand... some can be very very harsh to deal with.

[@RicochetForce]

Exactly. Shitty ideas or behavior should absolutely be challenged. If they're not challenged you're effectively condoning the behavior, and those responsible will feel more comfortable treating people like that. Hell, it often encourages them intensify the bad behavior.

[@elysiumcore]

Japan work culture leaves a lot to be desired..

[@taliawtf6944]

Explains their nose diving birth rates, they seem more interested work goings on than even having a family.

[@VD-cc4hx]

@@taliawtf6944 yeah it's the opposite in America. The "American dream" seems to be having a stable married family with kids and the dad usually the one who is working while the mom stays home with the kids.

[@alan.92]

@@VD-cc4hx lmao typical American instantly pointing fingers at China when they get criticized. The fact that you admit to not being educated on history too is a big facepalm.

[@VD-cc4hx]

@@alan.92 can you educate me? I would like to know. send me a website or something. is it russian corruption, or that has nothing to with it? sorry I don't understand. I'm not blaming china, having less kids means less climate change which is a sort of good thing relatively speaking. I'm not sure if its the right move to decide the fate of everyone's baby like abortion is in the US with it being illegal in most places like texas. the woman who is pregnant should be able to decide on her own of what she wants to do with her baby, and not the government.

[@haitolawrence5986]

@@VD-cc4hx Yes. Don't have kids. Thanks.

[@jamesbromstead4949]

I found that being a US Southerner... the greeting fellow workers every time you pass was just what I grew up with. The drinking at the end of the day with co-workers was similar too.

[@ShadowNerd92]

From the southern teaching, ergo Southern hospitality, this is put into us to consider others. However, the thing that is ingrained in us the most is Family First. This often allows to have our family with us, rather than coworkers finding out only through conversations late into the night while drunk. Thats saved for the weekends

[@TBustah]

“US” isn’t a demonym, dammit.

[@kawalangdalawahan]

And interesting enough, japan is the same latitude as the south and therefore the same climate! Tokyo is the same latitude as North Carolina! Maybe that’s why the cultures are both the same! hard working, traditionalist, and hierarchical!

[@whatthef-9772]

@@ShadowNerd92 did someone say “FAMILY”?!

[@magnagazoo4863]

Yes...but just a head nod will do. :P

[@hirotatsufujinami691]

"We're ok, so I'm ok." is a sentence I found in a book that describes the harmony aspect of Japanese companies. Even I, Japanese, sometimes have a difficulty in understanding their rules or habits.

[@michaeltheundeadmariachi4494]

I'd admire your country, it's culture, it's ahead of it's time-tech, it's food, and it's etiquette. However, the workplace in Japan is too conservative and strict, resulting in off the chart records of suicides, psychological and physical trauma, job resignations, indoor shut ins, career changes from professional careers to sex industry careers, etc. This needs to be address at the next UN summit meeting, because it not only affects the citizens of Japan, but their future as well. I pray for good change and prosperity for your country

[@user-c3jdf9lylzse]

if i ever wanted to move to japan, i'd rather be self employed im too introverted for nomikai, i dont even celebrate my birthdays lol

[@zingyllama4730]

You don't celebrate either

[@ojyochan]

I couldn't do it, cannot drink

[@killertruth186]

I couldn't do it, since I would drink sodas instead (but not as much rn since I don't know what my body is doing rn).

[@zingyllama4730]

@travis Rm You don't have friends either?

[@zingyllama4730]

Coronavirus virus messed up having friends for me

[@jabealexski]

Lets just be honest, the working culture in Japan is really bad and it won't get better for foreigners or younger locals, unless people actually open their mouths and talk. So yes, you could just follow along with the older generation or try to move things towards a better situation.

[@ChristopherCricketWallace]

Exactly. Progress (presumably positive change) never comes from staying quiet and comfortable. You don't have to take a sledge hammer to everything; but you will have to nudge things along in varying degrees. People act like the only people that can have a good idea is the old people. I say, that if a wise man can't recognize a good idea--no matter the source--they aren't that wise and maybe should not be leader anymore. It's all in the execution, anyway.

[@itsalwayshalloweenexceptwh5118]

TLDR: agreed but the burden of pushing for progress shouldn't fall on foreigners shoulders. You'll have a better time if you just follow along. I absolutely agree that staying quiet and following along isn't the way to progress. But the burden of taking actions to promote progress should not fall on the shoulders of foreigners. I doubt japanese companies would make changes based on what their foreign employees tell them anyway, because being a foreigner means always being considered "other" and "outside" to a certain degree. There are pros and cons to this. They tolerate certain things from foreigners they would not tolerate from japanese coworkers because they are understanding of cultural differences (they are probably still annoyed by the certain things though). But they probably won't follow up to any suggestions or complaints foreign employees have to the same degree that they would follow up on japanese employees suggestions and complaints. There is a sneaky way to offer suggestions/complaints as a foreigner without losing your "hardworking, caring, motivated" employee reputation. You ask to talk to one of the higher ups privately, then say something along the lines of "I'm still learning about the company and japanese culture, I want to increase my understanding about the way we do things at this office/company. Why do we do (insert procedure here) in this way?". Don't say "wouldn't it be better if we did it this other way?". Just asking why a certain thing is done a certain way gets you further. If the system sucks they will say "because we've always done it that way" or "you don't need to understand". If they actually have a helpful explanation why they choose to do it a certain way you'll learn from it. If you completely understand why they do it a certain way, but you see a way to do it better, then drop that hint with a coworker of the same rank. That's all you can do.

[@RicochetForce]

@@missplainjane3905 No, Japan's is among the worst on the planet. It's so bad that workplace suicides and overwork deaths are extremely common. They're on a whole other level.

[@LittlePixieBot]

@@missplainjane3905 I have not, but I know Japanese who have experienced it and many who our outspoken about the realities of Japanese work culture. Also, the animated series, Aggretsuko, is an excellent window into Japanese office life.

[@HikkuRikku]

@@missplainjane3905 Visiting Japan and criticizing their work culture is different. Did you know Japan's Homeless problem is very bad in the world? Suicide rate is also through the roof! and birthrate is at an all time low. Japan is basically going to bleed itself out, just like China soon. But yes, I do want to still visit the country but I am not going to keep assuming its a country where everybody poops out rainbow.

[@bishop51807]

In America bending over backwards like that job, we call being a yes-man or a suck up. It can cost a company money, if you don't speak up about harmful decisions, people in management may be making.

[@Sarah-do3zo]

Just saw a report about how America is falling down on employment hiring because no one can lower their ego at work so everyone is quitting. No one there can take the rudeness from customers, employees and so the superiors. >_< we are all screwup …

[@Sam-Jones]

their also called: kiss-asses and save-asses too.

[@renato360a]

@@Sarah-do3zo what you said is definitely not the reason why there is a labor shortage in America. Don't know where you read that. Most frequently cited hypothesis still is the result of generous unemployment benefits, but there's also a discussion on improving worker rights and work conditions. That's not ego, that's citizen rights!

[@Deneteus]

False optimism and ignoring realistic problems causes projects to fall apart, deadlines to be missed, and in some cases puts people in danger of being killed. That is why Western society does not respect people who glaze over problems. They can't be trusted if they would allow a project to fail just to make other people happy.

[@gabrielgabriel3852]

Corect.

[@avocado8952]

Agree 100%. Some foreigners think that if they promote Japan like Japanese do that they will be accepted. They will be waiting 4ever

[@minakoaino_]

You can’t be yourself and you‘re not important. Also you should work and act like a robot. That’s Japan. (I worked in a Japanese company myself.) A reason why the suicide rate is so high, it’s very sad. I hope Japan really changes, not only for foreigners working there, also for their own people.

[@xellzor]

How high? Not even in top 20 anymore. Most recent data shows that Japan is even below US with much lower crime rate too. Work culture sure has quite few problems and changing it by force isn't really a solution. There are companies that kick out employees from office once work time is over and guess what? Those employees just wander around unable to return home, since home isn't for them either. Many deeply rooted social problems exist and affect each other. Anyway, when in Rome, do as the romans do. That's all there is to it. Don't want? Be prepared for negative feedback or just simply leave.

[@KeiraA333]

@@xellzor Sounds like you run from conflict a lot and brush issues under the table. She's voicing concern for the people - how it affects populace daily - and all you say is "oh well to bad" in 3x the words. Leave her be. The fact you also pointed out/are aware of major social issues and then proceeded to brush it under the rug??? You'd actually fit in with the older/richer people in Japan pretty well. No really! Go become a citizen. Be what you are~ =)

[@xellzor]

@@KeiraA333 And then people wonder, why japanese give the cold shoulder to foreigners. And assume right away that they must be xenophobic... She voiced a concern without understanding the issue much and just assuming things. And suicide is one of those empty assumptions, she also ignored the fact that suicide in Japan was a way to protect honor unlike western culture where it was viewed as a sin. Those things don't go away that easily. To begin with, it isn't as high as many seem to believe. I'm against forcing your own rules into someone's home. And trying to change something without understanding all the underlying issues and where it comes from. Just grabbing a sledge hammer and breaking everything in your way will only create more problems.

[@rayyanali4471]

@@xellzor Honor my ass. Most of them do it for the same reasons as elsewhere.

[@xellzor]

@@rayyanali4471 You misunderstood the meaning, view on suicide is different. History does make difference. Adult suicide is dropping and is no worse than other developed countries, but teenage suicide is still concerning. If you compare just numbers it's not terrible, neither it is close to first place. But those cases are still sad and easily preventable with more attention from related people.

[@ShadowNerd92]

Here's the thing from my point of view as a Westerner, American specifically. I can understand the point of many of these cultural norms that has been established over the years. And I'm not an activist to try and push things to action. However, thankfully, many in Japan are starting to see that the major problems they are having, Alcoholism, family issues, discrimination, etc. are stemming from the workplace and these "norms". Nothing is wrong with making and keeping harmony, however it's good to talk with the person these things are being arranged for, which i think this video explained well. In the West it always looks like Nomikai, rarely Kangeikai, is out of the blue and forced upon newer employees without consideration of family life or prior dedications, but you did show that there is time and ability to change things. However if these meetings were normal/regular without the stigma of needing to consume alcohol to show your participating, that be something in the right direction for understanding. We may like alcohol, but we save it for the right time and place, generally not in our work clothes. Unfortunately because it is looked through a continually business mindset, that'll be hard to do.

[@dslight113]

just the expectation that u don't have anything else 2 do and they will fill in the time for you is sickening in my opinion. im a person that wants 2 work 8 hours a day and go home immediately after that, my colleagues are not my friends and i cannot be bothered getting 2 know them''

[@decorachan4680]

IMPORTANT RECAP: - don’t speak up randomly. Remember about Harmony. - tell your colleagues if you can’t attend a drinking party. - know where to sit and know your RANK in the company. This also apply for restaurants, and in the elevator too. Basically, to know where you must sit, the lower you are in rank, the closer you have to sit to the door.

[@dslight113]

yh no ty

[@리주민]

Always best to assume you are lowest rank and have colleagues move you up, than to assume you are highest rank and have colleagues drag you back.

[@iPlayOnSpica]

What do you specifically do if you're low ranking when in a restaurant or elevator? EDIT: nvm, just read the rest of your comment.

[@AriThecraftydragon]

Interesting. Also, low rank or not, I'd want to be closer to the door - easier escape. 🙂

[@Carla-a]

Imagine....having a stressful workday and then being obligated to get some drinks with colleagues that u hate... God damn... My mindset is : Just go to work, do ur job and GO HOMMEE!!

[@리주민]

I think it's about team building and camaraderie. Granted, it shouldn't be forced and should be part of an EIGHT hour workday or less.

[@MaouHoi]

@@리주민 I think its good for like few times a month not few times a week!

[@Navinor]

@@리주민 In germany we have a quote :" Work colleagues are never your friends" In germany you can have friends which you have met at work. But 99% of time they aren´t. A lot of germans draw a line between "friends" and "work colleagues". I do not even want work colleagues come to my home. The backstabbing in the business world is real.

[@JohnnyLaRue]

Working in Japan killed my soul. Unpaid overtime, drinking parties, unable to leave on time because the boss chose to stay late, pointless meetings, having to eat lunch at my desk vs going out to eat because "everyone else brings a bento", blantant disregard for labor laws...etc I do not hate the country but would never live or work there again, better for me to visit instead.

[@ikaputrialfina527]

What do you do in Japan?

[@geraldsambajon8253]

Yeah same thing here, the only thing that make me go to work was just to see my crush at the office every morning when chourei is being held lol

[@themightyflog]

I would have hit the clock button and told the boss bye. "A good manager is the one who knows how to manage his time and be productive" Bye guys see you tommorrow. I did that in the US too.

[@geraldsambajon8253]

@@themightyflog but when you do that in japan, they will gossip at your back saying that your not a passionate employee selfish etc. Japanese dont say anything in your front but they actually say something on you behind

[@리주민]

About work in general: I think a business tax that replaces all other business taxes should be implemented. The goal of this tax would be full employment. It would be based on 4 things: Business revenue ÷ gross national businesses revenue; number of business employees ÷ national working population. Businesses would pay lower taxes for having their proportion of employees based off their revenues. For example, walmart would pay lower since they are only slightly off par, but Apple with only 210,000 employees compared to their $137 billion would pay much much higher. If Apple wanted to lower their tax, they would higher many more employees. Another pillar would be to introduce businesses needing to provide housing or housing allowance to each and every employee, much like the US military does. The minimum wage or salary could then be marked lower. Just as there is a govt pension insurance for businesses, there could be a govt housing allowance insurance for businesses that couldn't pay or have a room above their shop. Firing employees should be made more difficult, but punishments like extra duty (during afterwork social time), suspension, etc should be available. Mirror the civil service in firing process. Lifetime employment. And the last pillar should be a cap on working hours (which with extra employees would be no issue). 5 hours Max at work, 1 hour afterwork activity, and the rest off. Please let me know if you think this would work, and also if politically possible (would businesses like). Thank you.

[@forsakencrow1186]

I have been living in Japan for almost ten years. Let me say this, it sucks working a Japanese company, because you cannot say what you actually feel at work. You might have a good idea about getting a particular job done quicker or easier, but then everyone there just look at you like you don't know what you're talking about. I have had this done to me all the time. I am not going to sit there and brown nose! It is also hard trying to take vacation too! Even when you do, they look at you like your the bad person and causing them to work harder. Who cares! My family is not the company, it is my wife (who happens to be Japanese), my dog, niece's and nephew. The company can hate me all they want. I am there to do my hours and go home end of discussion! All this drinking with co-worker's and boss that can be drained down toilet. Even my wife agrees with that.

[@themightyflog]

I'd just plow right through them. I wouldn't say "this is a good idea" I'd say "we are going with this and I think the boss here is wise enough to know it." I just take the time off and say peace.

[@리주민]

In all fairness, I've experienced that in the States too. "This is how we've always done it." "Why don't we try this way first?" Etc.

[@forsakencrow1186]

@@리주민 I see. I never had that happen to me in the states, but for sure it does exist, just not as much as Japan.

[@thegamethemovie9605]

I work for a Japanese company too. The secret to my survival is sadly that I am always "tatemae" with Japanese people, as they aren't trustworthy at all. You can't say anything, can't call out any wrongdoing. I've had people take credit for my work, demand I do their work, ask for my help only to turn around and say I'm not helpful - because they couldn't do what I do as well as I. In the US, people are expected to be competent, so I am. Japanese are happy to wallow in incompetence, as long as everyone is the same. But as a foreigner, you automatically stand out, and are automatically therefore someone that will never fit in. So I don't try to fit in. I'm not obvious about it - I don't rub it in their face or get angry: I focus on being pleasant and do my own work. I make sure I'm too busy to do theirs. Because ultimately, working here is quieter than working in the US: No one gets on my case, and the national expectations of each other are actually so low that my good work speaks for itself. It's an odd choice, but ultimately I look at the tradeoff for my own sanity. So I'm upbeat and excited, and that's appreciated and accepted - never mind that my Japanese colleagues are incapable of understanding my motivations. (At drinking parties, where it's ok to express opinions) It's funny when Japanese say that they don't know what I'm thinking, usually because I'm the same person I am at work, no matter how much I drink. "Kukiyomu" is another one of those cultural myths here in Japan - they're incapable of reading a foreigner who doesn't behave as a foreigner is "supposed to" behave. Sad that the Japanese are killing themselves with their own culture, but, it's their country. It's interesting to compare Japanese culture to my Roman Catholic beliefs: We are none of us perfect, so get along and leave it to God. So, there are the only Japanese people I do open up to, hang out with, and show my real face - because at church we are Catholic first.

[@amarug]

I love Japan so much and I will never stop going there for holidays, I speak somewhat passable Japanese, but all things considered, I would never want to work for a Japanese company. I am the ultimate "pragmatic", I value politeness but all kinds of weird rules of who sits where etc are a waste of time and energy and would drive me nuts.

[@MrOnePieceRuffy]

I would not mind all of that at all, if there wouldn't be the fact, that Germany have nearly 100% more productivity rate with 50% less work time than japan and the "unpaid overtime" is not even included. All of that with 4 times more days off the year and Sundays (In Germany, every Store/Shop is closed). If you were to ask a Japanese person if they would rather have all these benefits or keep the Japanese service, they would answer: "What the others said".

[@renato360a]

"what the others said" omg, excellent!

[@chasinthroughthedecade]

Long story short: "harmony." Then again, can't spell "harmony" without "harm." 😂😂😂

[@mikila94]

O_O That's brilliant!

[@stuntmonkey00]

Dude, that's like the unofficial motto of Chinese families!

[@chasinthroughthedecade]

@@stuntmonkey00 Asian families, in general, from what I have observed, to some degree. And that is not limited to just East Asian/Confucian cultures.

[@sippingsometaeandkookie9613]

Yeah😌😂

[@whatthepick]

I almost can imagine someone starting up a foreigner style company and the slogan is we don't do harmony, we tell it as it is :)

[@CanalDesenhando]

I´m a Brazilian, that totally explains why Japanese come to my country and when they do, they are so positive and happy all the time because they don´t need to follow those terrible cultures from their own country.

[@EdTzani]

Same with my Japanese colleague ...he was living the life here in Malaysia and happy working ...he even said tht he never felt this balanced in his worklife where he can still spend time with loved ones

[@FractalPrism.]

your job IS NOT your "family". its a place you go to trade your time for money. family wouldn't ask you to work overtime without being paid that money. that would betray your only reason you go to work! working unpaid is like a sexless relationship, there's no point to it.

[@ichiroutakashima4503]

I've met enough foreigners who really have no clue on what and how Japan works and have regretted working here, well most of them are just people who knew Japan from anime or dramas and clearly doesn't realize that fiction doesn't equate to reality.

[@Akiyama_Shun]

そんな人がラッキーでしたしこの気持を良く分からなかったんです。僕、日本で働くのは一番夢ですよ。その会った外国人は日本があんまり好きじゃなかったら、僕のチャンスになれるといいね。

[@themightyflog]

I loved living in Japan. I'm more of an enigma even in the US. Boss would say "we need you to work overtiime" I'd say "nah I'm good..you'll need me even more tomorrow then" So they really couldn't fire me. hahahaha!

[@avocado8952]

@@Akiyama_Shun who likes power harassment or discrimination?

[@ポップパンク和訳]

​@@Akiyama_Shunweird flex but okay

[@wv77m]

All of this etiquette seems too much. I would hate to be walking on egg shells all day.

[@RicochetForce]

That's exactly what it is. It's ten thousand fucking rules meant to crush human beings into more productive, less disruptive capitalist units. Notice how almost all the rules revolve around showing respect to the powerful, devoting more time to work, not upsetting ANYONE even if they're fucking up (because harmony matters more than truth, honesty, compassion), and the post-work unpaid shit? Meant to consume even MORE of your time with work related shit.

[@dianeberlin5969]

It would bother me not to put family first. If you work all day you should be able to go home to see your family,not be forced to spend more time getting drunk with co workers.

[@RicochetForce]

@@dianeberlin5969 Yeah, I don't know how you even have a relationship with your family when you're not with them 95% of the time. Talk about alienating.

[@themightyflog]

Americans in the work place don't have too....they usually get a free pass.

[@falxonPSN]

@@RicochetForce this is of course why affairs in Japan are very common. Nobita (a great channel) did a great video talking about all the bad points of japanese work culture. Hopefully the younger generation has the balls to change this mess and not just keep perpetuating it.

[@aguafria9565]

First of all, this is why I left my country. I hate working in New Zealand / Australia. I would say this cut-throat, competitive nature is really predominant in most working environments. I came to work and live in Europe and this is not the case here, so please be aware that 'western' doesn't mean all Europeans are like this. It seems to be mostly in English speaking countries.

[@chrisstewart1265]

So many rules and expectations make it sound like Japan is a good place to visit but you don't want to work and live there.

[@xellzor]

It was said many many times already. Sadly when i was moving to Japan i was too young and no tons of useful insider youtube videos like this one. I still think it's a better place compared to where i came from, but it's far from rosy as i imagined at first. Japanese culture can be a big pain in the ass, funny thing though, most japanese i spoke to completely agree with my points yet no one wants or simply can change anything about it.

[@xellzor]

@@missplainjane3905 Became kinda long, was somewhat fun to think about those questions. If you're interested in culture and life in Japan would recommend Nobita from Japan channel, touching many topics most don't talk about and is neutral in his views. 1) Japan is a country of extremes, it's both highly developed and underdeveloped, backwards country at the same time. Even after so many years here i still can't understand how it's possible. 2) Culture is difficult, has it's own merits and demerits. For foreigners from about anywhere would be difficult to fit completely. Since japanese extremely rarely show their true feelings it's difficult to make reliable connections. Most of friends/family relationships feel kind of fake. For me this was the most difficult part and got burned more than a few times. Close connections might be extremely difficult to make, but all people in general are friendly and helpful if you show at least some respect towards them. Food, local products, scenery and landscapes would say amazing, 10+ and one of reasons i still enjoy Japan so much. Quality of life is decent, it's a really safe country apart from natural disasters there is not much to worry about, but housing is quite horrible compared to other developed countries. Only recently and for a hefty price you can get somewhat energy efficient houses. I'm not even talking about size. Common housing in Japan is almost like advanced camping for me and i'm coming from ex-soviet country. 3) Foreigners in Japan face various challenges due to some ridiculous laws or plain discrimination from large companies. If you're not extremely annoying and ignoring all social norms usually normal people don't pay attention or at most just simple curiosity, like where from and how it is in your home country. But companies/laws are different story. For example just getting a debit card is a pain and only few banks allow it, getting a credit card is quite difficult, especially if you're self employed or work for small company. A japanese person can get a credit card rather easily even without steady job and almost non-existent income. One more thing i would add, i was close to a divorce once. Sudden heavy disease that also strongly affected mental health of my wife and many other things accumulated over 13years of marriage got us in a rather nasty situation. Then i learned just how horrible are the divorce laws. Japan is probably the only place where literal child abduction is legal. Wife can just take kids, empty the house while husband is at work and then proceed with the divorce. Husband won't see kids ever again if wife won't allow it. Even if court gives child visitation rights once in a blue moon, wife could easily refuse and won't face any penalty. Regardless of reason for divorce. Even if wife simply found new man to live with.

[@xellzor]

@@missplainjane3905 Anime, manga, games are really common and mainstream, even cinemas almost always have some anime movies running. You see people reading manga on trains all the time. In every waiting room you almost certainly can find some manga to read. Internet is decent, but not amazing, as for prices, just google. Depends on location. Mobile internet is soso and far from cheap. There is one problem with internet in Japan, it's setting up your router... you can't. At least not without some workarounds. They don't even write in manual how to connect to your router to change settings, exact same model sold in different country has admin pass, default ip etc on back of the router. Japan only default password for wireless network. Medical services i think are good, but can be annoying, especially with the old system of 'introduction letter' that isn't even free. It's when you have to go to different hospital and all information sharing is done on paper. Insurance is mandatory, but it's not 100% coverage. Includes basic dental work, what is considered for aesthetics purposes isn't covered, like ceramic. Japan has lots of small private hospitals and few large ones but difficult to get into. This doesn't look efficient to me because small hospitals often can't afford up to date equipment. Serious incidents usually won't make you bankrupt and there are cutoffs where from government will pay depends on income. I'm not sure about cancer costs with mandatory insurance only, but since there are tons of private cancer insurances out there i don't think it's easy. That's a point i need to check sooner than latter. Public transportation i think is really good but a bit on the expensive side, but not all places are equal, some cities are difficult without your own car. My personal favorite point about Japan is eating out, so much variety, everything of good quality and prices are really low compared to what you get. Customer service is excellent. Overall Japan is quite convenient place to live.

[@xellzor]

@@missplainjane3905 Depends where from, but i don't think Japanese education system is any good. Heavy load without much result. Kids have little to no free time. University is mostly a badge of honor. It's all related to how Japanese companies are hiring. It's more secure sure, but there is not much freedom. It's quite common that new people hired don't even know what kind of job they will be assigned to in the company. They don't usually apply for a certain position, but a certain company.

[@xellzor]

@@missplainjane3905 Definitely overhyped and overrated due to all anime/japan fans that never lived in Japan and focus only on good points. There isn't much to add to cons. The greatest difficulty is securing enough income without going bald from stress. The rest isn't that much of deal really. No direct or honest talk can be a bit challenging to get used to perhaps, especially if you're searching for a romantic partner. The rest all depends on personal preferences and tolerance levels, like weather, housing isn't great, food (japan isn't vegetarian friendly for example)

[@chocchipcookiegirl]

going out drinking with colleagues is literally the last thing I would want to do after a day of work lol D:

[@리주민]

Imagine doing the drinking duty before work. Drunk emailing and phone answering would be hilarious 😋

[@worgenzwithm14z]

@13:00 they use this to try and pressure their employees into not leaving the company, and also to guilt trip them into accepting lower pay then they deserve if you want a good salary you have to be firm but respectful in negotiations

[@colddiesel]

I have worked in Japan and the expectations of women's behavior in the workplace are very different to what is expected of men. It would be interesting if you covered them. Despite your statements about harmony I have witnessed senior Japanese men treat junior females appallingly, and much worse than they treated the junior males.

[@xellzor]

Gender roles still quite strong in Japan, most don't expect women to work for long time or at most keep an easy position when it's time to start a family. For men it's opposite, when starting family they are expected to work even harder and aim for promotion, basically live at work. Simplified a lot, nevertheless expectations are really different depends on gender. To be fair, lots of japanese women are like that and see work just as temporary means to survive until marriage.

[@itsalwayshalloweenexceptwh5118]

​@@xellzor "To be fair, lots of japanese women are like that and see work just as temporary means to survive until marriage." they're just trying to survive within a system that doesn't favor them working when they get married or pregnant. They'd rather not rock the boat because of the consequences of going against the grain in japanese society. So they just accept working until marriage as a reality. Having said that there are a number of people who complain about this and are trying to change it. But the change is slow. Maternal leave is a big topic lately. Some of them have found a way of continuing work in their twenties whilst also not rocking the boat, and they do that by simply not dating. Not that they would have much time for dating anyway if they did overwork on a consistent basis. Best solution would be if society was more open to the idea of a woman getting married and continuing working.

[@xellzor]

@@itsalwayshalloweenexceptwh5118 You missed the fact that majority of women in Japan don't want to work and they want to keep it that way. Yes, it's changing slowly and more career women appearing, but they are still a minority. So not like in Japan women are not allowed to pursue anything and be at the top, but definitely will have the pressure of prejudice. By far most important point in marriage partner for women in Japan is the income of a man. It's quite rare that the living expenses are split. After living in Japan well over a decade i realized that men actually have the short stick here apart from selected few at the top. I also ran in few too many problems because i don't see much difference between women and men.

[@itsalwayshalloweenexceptwh5118]

@@xellzor " the fact that majority of women in Japan don't want to work and they want to keep it that way." would they still not want to work if the system allowed them to keep working after they were married without pressure to quit and prejudice? I mean, the decision that they don't want to work might be based on how companies treat working women (especially as they get older) and expect them to quit when they get married or pregnant. So it's like what causes what. "I also ran in few too many problems because i don't see much difference between women and men." you mean physically that men and women look too much alike to you? Or do you mean you treat men and women in a more egalitarian way than japanese society does?

[@xellzor]

@@itsalwayshalloweenexceptwh5118 You judge from western side too much and refuse to acknowledge that people can have different opinion. Somehow so many western people are under assumption that vast majority of women in Japan are so eager to work and be independent but society doesn't let them. Which is really far from reality. Yes, many women here simply don't want to work or pursue a career which will involve a lot of effort or stress to grow. And since it's socially accepted they do just that. A woman pursuing easy job or stay at home wife is perfectly fine and no one bats an eye, a man trying to focus more on less stress/easy work, but less income will receive a lot of bashing. Obviously japanese won't say it straight, as they don't with everything else. But during those "nomikai" you can get the general idea. Over the years and several different prefectures the opinions are pretty much the same. As was said in the video, pointing out the problem directly will only be counterproductive. Also many seem to vastly underestimate how strong is the "if not broken don't fix it" attitude is in Japan. As for my problems from gender equality, i didn't think that men and women should have different duties and responsibilities just based on gender. Nor the abilities are much different, apart from obvious physical difference. I.e. average height is noticeably different and men are usually quite a bit stronger. For example it's much easier to find men capable and willing of passing physical requirement for firefighters than women. That's about it. This kind of view made it difficult to fit in Japan and i still don't really fit well, but learned how to live with this and avoid unnecessary trouble.

[@mao0811]

Having seen "Honne to Tatemae" also in the UK, I was aware that there is this type of gossip/politics not only in Japan but also anywhere in the world. That means we need to deal with politics anyway...

[@globesamurai4547]

Imagine if the conditions are changed, I work for a Japanese company at first I hated it but I stood up to my manager and now he leaves me alone

[@skaicentral3790]

I hate those drinking parties and nominication and the idea that if you turn it down you're seen as rude. I don't drink and sometimes when your shift is over you just want to go home or do something else and hang with the your boys (I can never image drinking with my boss lol and random colleagues)

[@midnight9umbreon]

Same here

[@veruskatorres9276]

X2

[@coralie288]

The thing is that some will act super friendly during those drinking parties, but will go back to ignoring you once back at work. 🤷🏻‍♀️ (I've been working in Japan for almost 5 years.)

[@ポップパンク和訳]

I dont understand these negative comments. Nomikai's seem fun asf and good to practice your Japanese

[@hijous]

With that kind of "harmony" it's kinda a hassle in the work environment imo.

[@enanthate]

That is the reason most of the foreigners end up running contractor/third party jobs with no bonuses/raises/stability for less than 200.000 a month. In Japan the rules, etiquette, tradition and seniority are much more important than skill or willingness to get the job done.

[@ZaGaijinSmash]

In my Japanese work place I decided that they're going to treat me differently whether I conform to their unhealthy work culture or not, so I don't. Of course the social niceties are a necessity, though.

[@taliawtf6944]

Learning about the Japanese work culture completely explains why they are having a birth rate crisis... :/

[@Mecks089]

I've seen this comment too many times to be taken seriously, it's practically a meme unironically. There's _many_ reasons why Japan has a low-birth rate issue, it's not just rooted at a single problem at the work force.

[@ChristopherCricketWallace]

@@Mecks089 no. I'm here. it's true. It's really true. Folks here are too tired to have sex. And they all say that it's too expensive to have a kid because they can don't make enough and won't until they've been working at the same company for 6-10 years. Maybe it's okay because people live so long here; but young couples won't even really consider it unless someone is rich.

[@minakoaino_]

Also the highest suicide rate.

[@linah1998]

@@minakoaino_ that‘s actually a remaining myth. Japan isn’t even in the top 10 anymore. Depending on the source you look at, it’s somewhere between place 16 and 18 worldwide which isn‘t fantastic but South Korea for example is at place 3 or 4

[@xellzor]

@@minakoaino_ It was one of highest based on almost 20year old data, now it's not even in top 20. Work culture however sucks big time and japanese themselves usually completely agree yet unable to change anything.

[@baalzevuv4509]

Actually my colleague was working for the Japanese company and they were just using him as a negotiation master. He was told to do "western-style negotiation" which was super effective against Japanese partners, then company would apology for his behavior blaming his origins. But well, deal was done and those were brilliant and very beneficial deals ;) Also I don't think all Japanese companies are taking care of long term relationships. Entertainment companies (mostly game devs and publishers) sell their products very pricey, sales are mediocre and regional pricing (for digital goods for example) is nearly non-existing.

[@unclegoose3864]

Could never be a working stiff in japan. My personality would not mesh well.

[@ThePlaceWhereWeGo]

all of Japan's problems can be boiled down to two things. 1. It's made for Japanese people. 2. Don't change things because that's how it's done. I want to add that working for a foreign company in Japan is actually not that bad, they bring along many working customs and don't enforce the ridiculous hours (as much). So real talk, if you want to live a happy life in Japan, learn a proper skill or get a valued qualification and then struggle to learn Japanese. You will get more money, a better visa, a better quality of life-work balance.

[@victortriump1563]

You are absolutely right. As the saying goes, "When in Rome, do as the Romans" Foreigners should be the ones who should adapt and adjust to Japan, NOT Japan adjusting to them. Japanese people are very hard working and have very good work ethics in general. (Although it is a harsh reality that most companies in Japan require employees work overtime, there is CERTAINLY a big improvement these days. Many companies are actually encouraging employees to go home early and take vacation, and yet it is the employees themselves who choose not to do so, because of their "kuki o yomu" culture, which means to look as the welfare of people at your country instead of your own) Foreigners should already know about the work culture of Japan before they even decided to work or come to Japan by having familiarized themselves with its work culture or general culture FIRST by doing their own research. SOME (not all) foreigners these days feel so entitled, they demand that people of certain countries give them attention or befriend them or speak English to them, but they need to understand that people are busy minding their own business and focusing on enjoying their families and friends, and besides not all people are not confident with their English and some don't really feel the need to learn it because they're happy and satisfy living in their country and they have no interest in abroad. (sorry f my English is not so good)

[@리주민]

@@victortriump1563 Hear, hear. I think one of the issues in Europe is that it bends over backwards for the minority to the point that the national culture is suffering. And the policing is more lax. That being said, I love the european labour laws and universal education through uni.

[@avocado8952]

Don’t mislead people specially when it will ruining their career and life. There is no way a foreigner can make it in Japan without Japanese wanting to and we all know they don’t. Get informed. Watch the news a little, learn the law.. can you get a job for a couple of years and make money? Yes, a career and growth opportunities no.

[@RuijaDreampool]

Very helpful video, would love more stuff like this. Also video's about all different 'hidden' rules and messages are always super good. They're always what I struggle with the most!

[@RadiantTwilight]

I would gladly always choose the seat near the door, I think it is more likely in modern japan to have to leave quickly, then to be attacked first by someone entering the door

[@Hughesed]

As a Foreigner I worked in Japan for many years. You need a lot of patience as many Japanese are not familiar with or have had experience of other cultures beyond their own. Also you have to deal with the ‘Honne’ and ‘ Tatemae’ aspect of Japanese Culture and behaviour which can be challenging for non Japanese. Having said that, I really enjoyed my time and life in Japan and and have been a frequent visitor to Japan after I returned to my home Country 🌸🌸🌸

[@idyudhaperdana8956]

The boss surely has had the experience as the newbie long time ago. Why must they change the culture, they enjoy the benefits as the boss. What an unending circle.

[@nazmulhudajewel9825]

Hearing all this formalities already make my head spinning. Japanese people has incredible amount of sincerity and dedication to society and group mentality.

[@haikuoflife]

My dad explained the differences of work in Japan vs USA, in Japan, at the time, they used to do morning exercises and show appreciation for their work. He said it's like having a marriage/family with everyone. There is a lot of loyalty and everyone strives to make the company better. They had strong respect honorifics and minded them, elders kept the younger people in line and morality was passed to the generations. Here, in the USA, people sometimes want to do the least amount for the paycheck. Everyone is supposedly equal and there is less attention to honorifics/seniority or gender. There is more family time because they aren't married to the business. I think there can be a good balance somewhere though. =)

[@mookiestewart3776]

no the way we do things in the west is undeniably better seeing as our productivity is nearly double that of the avg japanese worker lol.

[@christill]

I think the Japanese system promoting harmony is hurting the country now when it comes to politics and climate action. And it’s going to become more and more obvious in the next year or so. I hope they can snap out of it and have a society that is still respectful but where the young feel able to express their views that need to be heard and acted on urgently.

[@yangyin8492]

Hurting their climate action??? They're one of the most green countries in the world lmao. Let alone, the climate thing is way overblown by activists looking for a paycheck. And underblown by activists on the opposite side.

[@thedarkknight9021]

Not always views of the youth are legitimate, most often than not the aren't, it would be time the west remembers it.

[@bennybinjapan9857]

They can shove it where the sun don't shine!! I worked as a salary man at a Japanese company for 6 months. I had to let them know 3 months before I wanted to quit so I actually lasted only 3 months and was a dead duck for 3 months. I hated everything about every day. I'm not joking with the word hate, I actually hated that job and all to do with it. Suits, trains, bullying, can't leave til the manager leaves, silly politics, mandatory drinking parties etc . And on top of that I the salary wasn't outstanding. About ￥300000 a month. You can make that teaching English with little to no stress. I've been here 30 years and know very few people who have been able to deal with it. But where are they in the company? Not at the top levels. One time a woman from Taiwan fold me she was going to quit. I asked " Why?" She said "look around. Do you see any women at any position of authority? " Sorry. 'nuff said. Maybe I was just unlucky.

[@SDA921]

The company drinking events are things I think I would be fine with. I already hang out with my co-workers at my university job in off hours, despite being introverted for the most part. I like observing others and getting to know my collogues more in that way. The only aspect listed here I would really probably end up butting heads on would be the potential lack of clear cut answers. While I understand and respect if someone needs to think about an answer or get more information themselves, if I'm reaching a deadline I tend to be clear in the aspect of "I need an answer by X date/time, and if I don't receive preferred direction, I will proceed with what I believe is best." I am very much so a person who does not just let opportunities sit on the table or leave things alone because I don't have clear preference of direction from my superiors. I will definitely ask questions if I'm not certain, as since it is better to be sure where possible. However, if direction isn't given, I will always move forward and plan to ask for forgiveness.

[@DaCrackPOT91]

i don't usually treat my 'work colleagues' as my friend if we're not compatible, and i don't like work to be always my priority in life duh

[@theshadowman1398]

I haven’t seen any of my colleagues or managers in about half a year and I barely speak to them because it isn’t needed. It’s so awesome. I hate the fake hello’s and the whole pretending to care

[@azabujuban-hito8085]

So true 😂 thank goodness here in Tokyo I work in a mnc !! When I worked for a Japanese company, the most awkward moment was going to onsen together during a company outing. I cannot stand seeing my boss and coworkers stark naked, and worse, having to take a dip together in a hot pool !

[@ludicrousfunone5705]

As a Brit on the spectrum. I totally find western societal rules and etiquette superficial sometimes. These videos remind me that I would love to visit Japan, but living there I'd probably come across as a srude westerner... Which is a shame. But its pointless to dwell on such things. Love these videos. Please keep making them!!!!

[@thedarkknight9021]

The west abandoned most of its societal rules in favor of "the right to do what I want" or some other puerile nonsense, in short, the west becamo too entitled to maintain civility.

[@kaiserxblue]

This culture at work is very different from the west and that's kinda ok it's a 50/50 situation imho. I can see that this is their way of life and thinking however that doesn't mean that is OK to apply always. I also notice that their have a hive collective thinking instead of individual so makes sense about one sacrificing for the company. But like I said all these practices might be based on discipline but discipline alone is not enough. For instance, to me one of the most important things for ANY type of relationship (friends, peers, co-work, family, love) is *COMMUNICATION* , if there is no way to let the other person know what you are feeling or thinking then there is no relationship at all, it's just 2 persons talking. Speaking your mind is also important however society labels it like a taboo, because your opinion resembles little to no weight in comparison to others. But only wise and intelligent can learn something from it even if it's insignificant. Hence I always listen to what others have to say even if their opion is "insignificant".

[@matthewgroves6304]

I recently got into an argument with the owner of a company I currently work with in Japan. I am hip to not littering, and nothing talking on train out of respect for the culture, but being asked to work extra without pay is something I can’t do. Opinions should be expressed if they are constructive and helpful. Authority is a real thing, but we are all equal as humans at the end of the day, and communication is essential for everyone to feel comfortable and safe in the workplace.

[@AC-dd3rb]

I love the confidence to just impromptu dance in the middle of a bridge lol

[@xxHIMfanxoxo]

I would be curious if you could interview average Japanese people and see if they like the work culture in Japan. I've heard many people don't, but I'd like to hear their thoughts. Also I love your dress Cathy!

[@IiOnna222]

If you're new at a company, ask your senpai; he's there to teach you all of this if you're clueless.

[@littlepsycopopmaryith8618]

I have worked in Japan before in a big company for a few months to understand the work out there, I was doing my clothing business and I needed some pointers of Japanese Business to expand my clothing line. The company I went threw was very awesome, they even had a day where you can come in with normal clothes. I came in as my American clothing that I used to be in a gang by good reasons, they where in shock when i came in. I was do normal of coming in with natural make up, suits, sometimes my hair will be up in a bun or let down. So when they saw my "normal outfit" i was told i looked like a "Dark Gang Leader with Crazy Personality..." I was thrown way off and started to blush... they thought I got emotional hurt or embarrassed, so the boss came over to give me some positive advice. I told them what I have to deal with in America, and they burst in to tears! I was like "No, no, no it's a good thing. I'm protecting my adopted family from harm, so all the scars I have are not shame it's being proud of protecting my family correctly." And they had a new way of seeing me, after that day they always expected me to wear crazy make up and a crazy hair do ever since. 🤣🤣🤣

[@slavo316]

It's been a while since I've watched a video of yours. The new sounds and effects are a nice touch! This is why I would try and stay out of business jobs or office work in Japan lol

[@jdrevenge]

I'll be going for work later this year. I'll have to watch this video a few times between now and then to make sure this is engrained in my mind. Great dress, by the way, miss Cathy Cat.

[@jonathan8087]

Awesome info. But I think shooting this video in tight spaces seems inconsiderate for people walking 8:03

[@WillieDC28]

I will admit... I've been taking in a lot of videos doing my best to learn what I can about Japan but the one thing that stands out to me is how the work culture is described a lot of the time. Seems like a lot of problems would rise out of pure speculation/assumption that a person is either rude, dismissive, unfriendly and so on over something that could be simply explained.

[@cybeast0076]

Hearing this make me reassured that japan is a country with slavery in legal forms

[@metalcricket9070]

Telling someone off in front of others is a dick move even in the U.S. Not responding to someone's greeting could be seen as snobby here too. I've had the problem where I'd get nervous, freeze up and then people accuse me of being a snob. Doesn't help that my anxiety usually isn't too visible on my face.

[@Bluechief6]

The 1958 film, Giants and Toys, is a good satire about the Japanese work culture. Also some good acting in it.

[@christianbollore7677]

I greet my Japanese co-workers every day and say お疲れ様ですall the time (when going into the break room or leaving the office) yet the staff don't seem to acknowledge me or say anything back, little bit rude....

[@bodaciouscowboy]

Yes, it would be rude if they didn't say anything at all. Do you say お疲れ様です when you leave the office at the end of the day, or when they do? (The latter is appropriate, the former is not.)

[@flyingfox4358]

If you are saying this to just go to the breakroom you are gonna have to stop that. This is only said at the end of the day when someone else leaves. When you leave for the day just say. お先に失礼します。It means I’m sorry for my rudeness (im leaving the room now).

[@christianbollore7677]

@@flyingfox4358 i mean they say it when entering the breakroom too...

[@theman5614]

to be fair the bit about giving an opinion and not to do it in front of everyone, that rule applies i say pretty much everywhere or most places. I live and work in the UK and it's a similar thing, if the manager or a colleague has an issue they won't say it in the open office but would take you to a meeting room to give their opinions about things and what has happened etc. It's rude and a big no from anywhere and the others don't need it either as it is seen as unprofessional. Though it can be very different in other workplace. In some kitchen working areas the main chefs can be really nasty and embarrass you in front of everyone and i heard from others that i know in recruitment agencies there are some who would even start swearing at each other in front of everyone and don't care at all as they sometimes fight over who should get the commission over what they done etc. But in general most office environments it's pretty much the same thing, you'll never shout to scold or argue with someone. The only times when people call out on others who made a mistake are one's who are close and don't mind like it's nothing serious and more for a laugh of sort.

[@miguelgarcia-yn8mn]

Long lasting relationships sounds good. In the workplace

[@deadlykitten8771]

Great insight even as a general guideline, also love Cathy's cute little dance!

[@taikoking1]

Wow, I found this video to be one of the most insightful and helpful videos concerning certain aspect of Japanese culture. Seems like some of it coming from her own experience? Very well done.

[@thegamethemovie9605]

In the US: Express your anger, move on - adult. In Japan: Express your anger - child. 🙄

[@nabilahwahyuni1611]

Too much drinking party. That's why they don't have time for their family (and maybe for themselves). Also, I hear that some employees don't like nomikai because it sucks.

[@NetAndyCz]

It does suck, also a lot of overtime is "being at work", not actually working. Bad for personal live, and strangely enough bad for company as well.

[@kevischnei]

Hmm... Interesting. For me, there's quite a bit here that I would not like very much at all. However, with time, it's possible that I could adequately adjust to the major cultural differences from the United States. Negatives from the Japanese side of things: 1. Uh... I don't wanna do too much nominication events. I'm not a big drinker. I'm a lightweight also. Now, I'm not opposed to alcohol really, but man I don't wanna drink so much. I reserve it for special occasions. Weddings, holidays, birthdays, or the occasional party. 2. Yeah um, family is more important than work. Seriously. I'm not at work to hang out with my coworkers. That's be super weird. There are Plenty of coworkers that I like. However, hanging out with someone outside of work is Totally Different than just working With them. 3. Seating arrangements and greetings. This would be quite annoying. Even having worked at a bank for 4 years, it's super formal compared to any of the other jobs I've ever had. But even so, my higher-up bosses did not give a damn about seating arrangements or greetings. Just don't be an outright downer, and that was just fine. First name basis is okay. Sit wherever you want. Talk however you want (reasonably of course! No cursing or cussing or bullying!) Downsides to United States side of things: 1. United States work culture is WAY too pushy! My goodness! Always trying to tell me to shovel upgrades and yodelling people shit they mostly don't need. That pissed me off. Seriously. I don't wanna mindlessly spout off about warranties, product "upgrades". Come on. I know it's just so the company could make more $. Way too greedy. 2. Poor people get shafted here in the States with banking and benefits. Don't make good $, well that sucks. But it's even Worse because you probably won't get nice bank upgrades or good work benefits. People with lots of $ could take advantage of "free" things at the bank. Complimentary money orders or cashier's checks every month (usually just a few for free, but still), higher interest rates, complimentary safe deposit box (if you had a Lot of $). Those not making good $? Hell, your pay for any extra services. No free anything. Except a free checking account. Admittedly, that's nice. But rich people get tons of help, even when they don't need it. 3. Super shitty benefits. I don't know how it is in Japan. It doesn't sound awesome, so maybe something in common here. But yeah um, I've never had a job with good benefits. The bank helped me out the most, but it was nothing compared to having a cushy higher up white collar job. Sure, it Was Technically white collar. But bottom of the totem pole as bank teller? Yeah, you're not getting much there. Just saying

[@jakemcnamee9417]

This is how it starts. But eventually settlers will be able to call the Japanese racists and demographically replace them as they get into the government and all places of influence. I hope they know this and avoid that future.

[@harumrkinter9783]

Allergic to alcohol and extremely shy introvert. Oh boy. This is going to be a challenge. Already drained at my current job due to customers wanting to be friends and others hitting on me... And trying hard not to be rude lol.... 😂 Lord, help me when I work in Japan.

[@MadIIMike]

Japanese work culture is nice and funny if you're either the boss or not part of it. xD I had to contain myself not to laugh during a event where the CEO of a Japanese car manufacturer was around and got adressed kinda casually by virtually everone not japanese, meanwhile the japanese guys with the logo on their clothes looked like they'd faint whenever their boss got adressed casually. xD

[@Santiago_Handle]

7:08 "Making sure everyone can come" that's team's spirit 😂

[@ZaWyvern]

Good tips on how to enjoy your short term working experience in Japan... Unless you're working to be self employed or take the knowledge you have from here back home or elsewhere by getting hired on at foreign company you are not going to have a career in Japan. With one notable exception, the go between. For the Japanese companies that are big enough to have constant oversea sales then there are spots, but don't expect to do much of anything else. Like she said, a company is like a family and you have a role in it. That role is effected by so many other factors than just your attitude. As a foreigner you likely bring none of those to the table. And it's not rah-shism per say, or rather that's just a symptom. There are just plenty of other Japanese people above you on that ladder. And there is nothing you can do about it. Zan-nen. Just ask the politician Super Crazy... Western style organizations are simply dressing overlaying a much older and entrenched Japanese style. Don't be fooled into thinking you know the rules, you were likely not even invited to play.

[@renato360a]

13:00 "Generally in Japan people are working towards building long-lasting relationships." Except not! They are outright preventing themselves from building those relationships by keeping honesty and intimacy out of human relations. All those relationships where you have to step on eggshells all the time and put your superior first out of pure hierarchy and not admiration or respect, they are all shallow, superficial. Plus all this puts unnecessary strain on family relationships.

[@esmael.c2b]

No, the company isn't my family, I work there to get paid, when I get fired no one will do a damn about it.

[@tonipellengaire325]

Still hope to one day live and work in Japan, just feels like I was born in the wrong country.

[@jensdehnert1075]

"greeting is super important, ... whether its a teacher greeting a student, or a neighbour greeting another neighbour..." So why is it then, that the neighbours try to avoid having to say anything to me in my house, while I greet them all the time when I see them (just the "おはようございます・こんにちは・こんばんは" no intent to roll them over with smalltalk at this point), and they are very surprised that I do???

[@aismameijere-cirsa]

I could understand if those nomikai were once/a month or once every 2 weeks but from what i have heard they can be 3-5 times/a week. That seems over the top and not fair for your personal and family life.

[@bodaciouscowboy]

At the Japanese companies I worked for, they happened once or twice a month, at most. Five times a week would certainly be excessive!

[@dsgarden]

In Switzerland it’s also hard working for a Swiss company. Of course overtime is paid and you’re given your vacation in full but at work I found that I would almost always be blamed whenever something went wrong and also (even though it was never said) that coworkers did not like the way I formally presented my work using slideshow presentations instead of just orally presenting. I think it made me stand out too much. In short even though I communicated frequently and effortlessly using German and English I was still not allowed to extend my contract due to “language barrier” which I knew was just a veiled excuse for them not liking me as a non European foreigner. It’s sad, but that’s just how Switzerland is and I don’t think it will ever get better for foreigners here in the future.

[@sirlexon5427]

I've always loved how Japanese companies ran their businesses. Best example for us foreigners to see it in play is how the Final Fantasy XIV team works and cares for each other. I really wish they would adopt some pf these customs here, but very unlikely! The biggest issue is the balancing of work and free time, that's A huge negative.

[@리주민]

About work in general: I think a business tax that replaces all other business taxes should be implemented. The goal of this tax would be full employment. It would be based on 4 things: Business revenue ÷ gross national businesses revenue; number of business employees ÷ national working population. Businesses would pay lower taxes for having their proportion of employees based off their revenues. For example, walmart would pay lower since they are only slightly off par, but Apple with only 210,000 employees compared to their $137 billion would pay much much higher. If Apple wanted to lower their tax, they would higher many more employees. Another pillar would be to introduce businesses needing to provide housing or housing allowance to each and every employee, much like the US military does. The minimum wage or salary could then be marked lower. Just as there is a govt pension insurance for businesses, there could be a govt housing allowance insurance for businesses that couldn't pay or have a room above their shop. Firing employees should be made more difficult, but punishments like extra duty (during afterwork social time), suspension, etc should be available. Mirror the civil service in firing process. Lifetime employment. And the last pillar should be a cap on working hours (which with extra employees would be no issue). 5 hours Max at work, 1 hour afterwork activity, and the rest off. Please let me know if you think this would work, and also if politically possible (would businesses like). Thank you.

[@MaxBraver555]

it's really hard to keep up with their business etiquette, formalities, unspoken rules and extended work hours

[@Trinitas666]

This is why I would never want to live in Japan, working life there is horrendous. For me it's just a wacky theme park of a country, because as a Dutchman I could never put up with letting a company dictate how I should live my life or what I should prioritize in my free time. I work 38 hours a week in a remote software developer position, nothing in Japan could ever top those working conditions.

[@matsudaaa]

So as always, it is about the fight between individualism and collectivism (plus strong hierarchy)... I won't be defending one over another, but don't forget YOU (as for the worker, not Cathy XD) are the one in a foreign country, with probably different manners and values, so don't expect them to change everything for you instantly, even if what you propose is "better" or things like that. And the excuse "I didn't know about that rules" and such is only "valid" for tourists at the most, so if your plan is to be long term, try your best to learn and adapt, be polite, and you will gain a lot. Anyway, we can argue about the "mandatory" nomikais and boss idolatry and such, but a lot of the things said in the video are definitive not exclusive of Japan, like: I just entered the company but I have the right to turn it upside down... (Yeah sure...) Greet your colleagues? (How rude...) They throw a party for you at start to know each other better? (How dare they....) Learn and follow the manners of a foreign country? (Why? I just do whatever it's ok for me...) If I need to complain to a collegue, better to do it in front of everyone... (Because I need to reafirm my power and "alpha side" while stepping on the others to feel fulfilled...)

[@itsalwayshalloweenexceptwh5118]

There are some countries with a collectivist societal mindset where everyone is allowed to speak up if they have any suggestions or complaints about why a company does things the way they do. But these countries also promote a good work life balance and have, at most, one or two company outings a year. And they have restrictions about the amount of overtime an employee can make, and unpaid overtime is illegal.

[@matsudaaa]

@@itsalwayshalloweenexceptwh5118 Of course it's positive to be able to speak out for the business greater good, but in the end is a private company, so... And by the way, in Japan there's also a legal limit on overtime hours a month, I think about 45 or so, another story is if the company "really" reports (and pays) all the overtime, but that will be illegal as in any (?) other country, so not much difference there...

[@itsalwayshalloweenexceptwh5118]

@@matsudaaa I had no idea there was a legal limit for overtime hours in japan. You wouldn't think there was a limit by hearing what japanese people have to say about their overtime experience. So I think you're right about if a company really truly reports it. I know in practice that a lot of overtime is not paid in japan.

[@matsudaaa]

@@itsalwayshalloweenexceptwh5118 Yeah, (paid) overtime is in fact even included in some contracts, so it's quite common... But there will be always some companies which will take advantadge somewhat, as you appoint... There was a new legislation a couple of years ago to strengthen it, but I don't remember how it was before... At least they are doing something in the right direction....

[@itsalwayshalloweenexceptwh5118]

@@matsudaaa There's definitely (slow) progress in japan.

[@johanamk]

This gave me anxiety… and I don’t even work there 😂

[@NikkeiCanadajin]

Yes..just remember folks the company thinks of you as family... just like in Game of Thrones kind of family and we all know what happened there...

[@francetg]

This is great info! I would be so nervous offending someone that I'd pay more attention to the work rules and get fired for not doing the work. Great info though!

[@LITTERBOOTS]

5:30 Psh wow... they don’t care if you have the responsibility of parenthood? That’s bs in my opinion. I gotta be a man and put my family before socializing with my coworkers. Hard working mom’s gotta put up with that too? Forget it.

[@annabellejacquard9832]

Why is this only an issue in Japan ? No one else ever complain about foreigners working for international companies...

[@dean8147]

This is really helpful for someone moving there shortly

[@MrKrtek00]

The little thing you forget to mention: you can bend all yourself to fit it, be the good girl etc, you still often be the last…

[@arnonum7455]

That was interesting! And everything makes absolutly sense to me. Gute Arbeit! Greetings from Saxony/Germany!

[@magnagazoo4863]

These forced business social events are part of what is messed up in Japanese society. Ties in with the low birth rates and over work and suicide rates. The elders are afraid of the low birth rates and foreigners replacing Japanese but don't want to be bothered with changing something that advantages them.. Human nature I guess.

[@ladyseshiiria]

This makes sense now with ceo and workplace manga

[@funaraeeeee8002]

Worked in a Japanese Izakaya in Kyoto before, it is absolutely soul eating job, working until 3pm every time, thank god its a baito. This actually alerts me that I will never work in a Japanese company, I'd rather work in a foreign company in Japan instead if I really wanted to stay. the Izakaya job was absolutly nightmare, they would have nomikai (drinking party) like once every week or so, greet the colleges and tencho everytime we meet, hiding your emotions (which is absolutely impossible for me). So yea, please don;t work in a Japanese company, it will just suck your soul out, probobly shorten your life span.