This time, we spoke with Wing Yeung Pun, a 2024 graduate from the University of St. Andrews, who secured a remote marketing position with a Japanese company through various channels, including Jelper Club. Her journey from studying Astrophysics to working in marketing demonstrates how international students can successfully navigate Japan's business landscape. In this interview, Wing shares her experience working remotely for a Japanese company, her thoughts on Japanese work culture, and insights into leveraging multilingual skills in the global job market.
―― Could you briefly introduce yourself?
Wing: I'm Wing Pun, a 2024 graduate from the University of St. Andrews where I studied Astrophysics. I'm currently working remotely in a marketing role for a Japanese company, which is quite different from my academic background. Being born and raised in Hong Kong has given me a unique multicultural perspective that proves valuable in my current position.
―― How did you first become interested in working with Japanese companies?
Wing: I first learned about opportunities in Japan through an in-person event at St. Andrews, where I was serving as a general committee member of the University's Japan Society. Through this connection, I learned about the benefits of working with Japanese companies and the unique opportunities available. What particularly attracts me to Japan is the country's high standards in terms of safety and hygiene, as well as the overall quality of life and reasonable living costs compared to other developed nations.
―― Could you tell us about your current role?
Wing: In my current position, I conduct marketing research related to our company's services and business partners. What makes my role unique is that I can utilize my language skills - I speak Mandarin, Cantonese, Japanese, and English - to conduct research across different markets. I also handle translations for the company's website. The work environment is quite flexible, with my boss giving me considerable autonomy in managing my projects and deadlines.
―― How do you manage working remotely with a Japanese company?
Wing: The experience has been very positive. While I primarily communicate with my boss in English, I use Japanese when translating website content and participating in meetings with external Japanese executives. One thing I've particularly noticed and appreciated is the strong emphasis on courtesy and politeness in Japanese business culture. Unlike the common perception of Japanese companies requiring extensive overtime, my experience has been quite balanced in terms of workload.
―― What has been the most valuable aspect of your experience?
Wing: The most valuable aspect has been gaining experience in Japanese formal business settings, particularly in meetings. Even working remotely, I've had the opportunity to understand and participate in Japanese business culture, which I believe is invaluable experience for anyone interested in working with Japanese companies. It's also been fascinating to see how global companies can effectively blend English and Japanese communication styles.
―― What advice would you give to students considering working with Japanese companies?
Wing: My main advice would be to leverage your unique advantages as an international candidate. While it's true that Japanese language skills are important - particularly for full-time roles in Japan - companies are often looking for specific skills or qualifications that might be rare in the Japanese market. Whether it's specialized technical knowledge or unique language combinations, focus on what makes you stand out. Also, don't underestimate the importance of understanding Japanese business etiquette, especially regarding courtesy and communication styles.
At Jelper Club, we're dedicated to supporting ambitious students like Wing in their journey to work with Japanese companies. Our platform connects students from top universities worldwide with exclusive opportunities in Japan, regardless of their current location. We also provide access to practical information, member-only events, and a professional community of like-minded individuals.
If you're a student interested in opportunities with Japanese companies, or if you want to connect with Jelper Club members like Wing who have successfully secured positions, we encourage you to register with Jelper Club today.
(Interviewer/Editor: Jelper Club Editorial Team)
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