You should consider applying for a Japan internship. Japan is home to a rich cultural heritage, a booming economy and a technologically advanced society. There is therefore no doubt that an internship there can give you more than your money’s worth of hands on education. Of course, the experience will also have its share of challenges. You’d be better able to face them if you possessed certain traits.
Respect
This trait is regarded so highly that you will be expected to show it to everyone regardless of age, rank or social status. Honorific suffixes such as san have to be used when speaking to peers, customers and bosses. In addition, daily speech should include various honorific terms that fit into the categories of kenjogo or humble language, teineigo or polite language and sonkeigo or respectful language.
Aside from language, respectful action is also expected from participants of Japan internship programs. When giving something for example, the most respectful way to do so is to bow and hand over the item with both hands. Bowing is also the customary greeting used for people of all ages.
Fidelity
Japanese employees are known to be so devoted that they will remain with the first companies that accept them for the remainder of their careers. For interns, loyalty to the company is also expected but can be shown in different ways. You can for example refrain from speaking negatively about your workplace, employers, colleagues and company processes. Obviously, you will also be expected to keep the secrets of your organization to yourself.
Order
Discipline is another quality you need to absolutely develop while completing a Japanese internship program. This can be shown by performing diligent and uninterrupted work during office hours. Other than this however, you will also have to follow certain systems such as 5S. This stands for seiri, seiton, seiso, seiketsu and shitsuke, a popular way of making sure that work surroundings are kept tidy and in order.
Tameness
Most Japanese professionals are noticeably tame at work. You should therefore keep with the practice of keeping your voice well modulated and your actions restrained. This is what you need to always put into action at work sections, sleeping accommodations and meal areas.
Take note that other facets of local culture will not fit in quite well with western concepts of reserve. Communal bathing for example is one practice that your co-workers will not be shy about. If you do not maintain your own separate accommodations, this is one cultural aspect you will have to deal with.
Promptness
You will be considered rude if you arrive for work late. This is especially if you are in the habit of being late. You should therefore make it a point to show up a few minutes early. Also, you will be regarded highly if, other than being on time, you also stay for a few minutes longer after regular work hours.
Don’t skip the chance to go for an internship Japan plan. All you need to make sure of is that you are well equipped with the right traits before you start. This is the best way to ensure that you will have a completely enriching experience.
