An OB visit, or "alumni visit," traditionally refers to students meeting with alumni from their university or former employees who are active in a specific industry to gather insights beneficial for their future careers. In recent years, however, the term has expanded to include meetings with professionals from companies of interest, regardless of whether they are university alumni. This broader definition, facilitated by online communication tools, has become increasingly common. OB visits are a key feature of Japan’s job-hunting culture, but they are far less prevalent in other countries. As a result, international students unfamiliar with the Japanese recruitment system may find this practice both novel and challenging to navigate.
This article explains what OB visits entail and why they are a valuable tool for students exploring their career options within the context of Japan’s unique hiring process. OB visits provide a rare opportunity to gain insider information about a company or industry—insights that are not readily available through websites or job postings. By engaging directly with professionals, students can assess whether a particular workplace aligns with their career goals and preferences.
This guide outlines the purpose of OB visits, their typical processes, and practical tips for conducting them effectively. Use this guide to approach OB visits with confidence and deepen your understanding of the companies and industries you aim to pursue.
1. Overview of OB Visits and Their Benefits
1.1 OB Visits Explained
As outlined earlier, OB visits involve students meeting professionals working at their desired companies to learn about the job, industry realities, and even the job-hunting experiences of these professionals. While OB visits are deeply rooted in Japanese culture, they are often likened to "coffee chats" in Western contexts—a more casual setting where individuals openly discuss company culture and career paths.
With the rise of online tools, OB visits now commonly include virtual meetings through platforms like Zoom or Teams. While traditional in-person meetings at cafes or company cafeterias are still prevalent, these online options have made the practice more accessible. OB visits serve as a platform for companies to showcase their appeal and work culture while enabling students to gain a deeper understanding of their career options.
In Japan, OB visits play a pivotal role in job hunting, particularly for students targeting Japanese firms. Below, we explore the primary reasons why OB visits are considered essential.
1.2 Why Are OB Visits Considered Essential?
1.2.1 Gaining Authentic Workplace Insights
Japanese companies often share limited internal information publicly. OB visits provide students with a rare opportunity to learn about workplace dynamics, employee interactions, daily responsibilities, and career growth opportunities directly from professionals. This firsthand perspective helps students grasp industry-specific challenges and assess whether a company aligns with their values and career goals.
1.2.2 Building a Professional Network
OB visits offer a unique chance to establish direct connections within the industry. In Japanese companies, endorsements from mid-level or senior employees can significantly influence hiring decisions. Establishing rapport during an OB visit may lead to valuable introductions or even mentorship opportunities, further enriching the student's professional network.
1.2.3 Enhancing Job Preparation and Self-Analysis
Through OB visits, students can align their career plans with industry expectations while receiving constructive feedback. This process not only highlights strengths and areas for improvement but also helps students refine their job application strategies. OB visits often simulate interviews, enabling students to practice self-presentation and receive actionable feedback from industry professionals.
1.2.4 Demonstrating Interest Through Multiple Visits
In Japan, the number of OB visits a candidate undertakes can reflect their genuine interest in a company. Repeated visits demonstrate enthusiasm and provide opportunities to engage with multiple employees, strengthening the credibility of one's motivation. This proactive approach often sets candidates apart in the competitive hiring landscape.
As outlined above, OB visits are a crucial aspect of job hunting in Japan, and their success depends on thorough preparation and proper execution.
2. How to Find OBs (Alumni)
OB visits are a vital method for gaining valuable insights into workplace realities. Here are five common ways to find OBs:
2.1 University Career Centers
For students enrolled in Japanese universities, leveraging the resources of their university’s career center is highly recommended. These centers typically maintain comprehensive databases of alumni contacts and career paths, making them an ideal starting point for finding OBs.
2.2 OB Visit Apps and Websites
Platforms such as BizReach Campus allow users to search for professionals based on various criteria and initiate contact with employees of interest. However, BizReach Campus imposes geographical restrictions, which may disadvantage international students. In contrast, Jelper Club offers access to OB visits for students from any country, enabling connections with employees from a wide range of industries. With its expansive network of professionals, Jelper Club facilitates efficient OB searches, even for students without prior connections to their target companies.
2.3 Recommendations from Peers or Seniors
Personal connections—such as recommendations from university seniors, friends, or acquaintances—are another popular way to find OBs. Clearly articulating your interest in a specific company or industry and requesting an introduction can be an effective approach.
2.4 Referrals from OBs You’ve Already Visited
Another method involves asking professionals you’ve previously visited to introduce you to their colleagues. This is especially effective in the context of job hunting for Japanese companies, as it supports ongoing networking and deeper engagement within the company or industry.
2.5 Participation in Networking Events
Attending in-person networking events provides opportunities to meet professionals working in your desired industry. For example, Jelper Club organizes events like "Soirée Tokyo," which enable students to interact with seasoned professionals and expand their networks.
By utilizing these methods, students can efficiently connect with OBs and gain meaningful insights to aid their career exploration.
3. The OB Visit Process
OB visits are not only an opportunity to gather information about a company but also a chance for the visiting student to make a positive impression on the employee. To maximize the benefits of an OB visit and leave a strong impression, thorough preparation is essential. Below are key steps to help you succeed.
3.1 Pre-Visit Research
Conducting thorough research beforehand is critical to the success of your OB visit. Familiarize yourself with the company’s basic information, current industry trends, competitive landscape, and any challenges the company is facing. Additionally, learn about the OB’s background, including their career history and achievements. This knowledge allows you to identify areas of common interest, making your conversation more engaging and meaningful. Proper preparation not only demonstrates respect for the OB’s time but also provides the foundation for asking specific, insightful questions that will add value to the discussion.
3.2 Setting Up the Appointment
Securing an appointment is your first opportunity to make a good impression. Clearly introduce yourself and state the purpose of your visit. Be considerate of the OB’s schedule by proposing several potential dates and times for the meeting. If scheduling conflicts arise, show flexibility and a willingness to accommodate their availability.
Once an appointment is confirmed, follow up a few days before the meeting with a polite confirmation message. This message can include a brief reminder of the appointment details and a list of key questions you plan to ask, signaling your preparation and respect for their time.
3.3 Dress Code and Essentials
Your attire should align with the industry and company culture, but a suit is generally a safe choice. First impressions matter, so ensure your appearance is clean, polished, and professional.
As for what to bring, essential items include a notebook, a pen, and a prepared list of questions. These tools will help you take notes and guide the conversation effectively. Demonstrating preparedness reflects your professionalism and commitment to the opportunity.
4. Etiquette and Communication Tips for OB Visits
Effective communication and proper etiquette during an OB visit can yield far more than just information. By implementing the following strategies, you can make your visit meaningful and memorable while laying the groundwork for positive outcomes in later recruitment stages.
4.1 Preparing Thoughtful Questions
The questions you ask are the cornerstone of a successful OB visit. Thoughtful preparation is essential to lead productive discussions. Avoid asking questions that can be easily answered online, and instead, focus on eliciting insights from the professional’s personal experiences and perspectives.
Make your purpose clear and use the OB’s time efficiently by preparing questions rooted in research. Go beyond simple information gathering by using the visit as an opportunity for hypothesis testing. For example, you could develop hypotheses about unique features of the company that align with your career goals and ask the OB for their feedback.
If your hypotheses resonate with the OB, you can later incorporate their feedback into your application materials, strengthening the persuasiveness of your motivation. Thoughtfully crafted questions will not only yield valuable insights but also help you better define your career objectives.
4.2 Demonstrating Respect
Every action during the visit reflects your respect for the professional. Start with a clear and confident greeting, and ensure you actively listen without interrupting. When sharing your thoughts or asking questions, maintain a respectful tone and demeanor.
This approach is not just a basic business etiquette but also a critical communication skill applicable in professional settings. Use the OB’s name occasionally during the conversation to create a personal connection and show that you value their time and insights.
4.3 Following Up After the Visit
Post-visit follow-up is key to maintaining a long-term connection with the professional. Send a thank-you message promptly after the meeting, expressing gratitude for their time and insights. Mention key takeaways from the conversation and, if applicable, include questions you may have forgotten to ask.
This small gesture leaves a lasting positive impression and can pave the way for continued engagement with the professional.
By adhering to these etiquette and communication principles, an OB visit becomes more than just a fact-finding session—it becomes an opportunity to build meaningful relationships and advance your career.
5. Conclusion
OB visits are an integral part of job hunting in Japan, offering invaluable opportunities to gather insights, build networks, and prepare for the job search process. For international students considering a career in Japan, leveraging networks like Jelper Club can significantly enhance their understanding of target industries and companies.
Jelper Club remains committed to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds in building successful careers in Japan. If you have questions about Japanese job hunting or career paths, feel free to share them on our "Thread".
(Editor: Jelper Club Editorial Team)
Comments