Job hunting or “shukatsu” is considered to be one of the most important milestones in a Japanese person’s life. It is a time when fresh graduates try to find their place in society, and experienced professionals look for better opportunities. However, the process of job hunting in Japan is not as glamorous as it may seem. In fact, it can be downright grueling and unpleasant. So, why is job hunting in Japan so “kimoi” or creepy? Let’s explore the dark side of shukatsu in this article.
1. The Pressure to Conform
One of the biggest challenges of shukatsu in Japan is the pressure to conform. Japanese society values conformity and group harmony, which means that individuality is often discouraged. This pressure to fit in can be felt throughout the job hunting process, from the way you dress to the way you answer interview questions. Many companies have a specific “type” of candidate they are looking for, and if you don’t fit that mold, your chances of getting hired are slim.
2. The Lengthy Application Process
The application process for shukatsu is notoriously long and complicated. It can take months to complete a single application, which includes writing a resume, cover letter, and personal statement. Many companies also require candidates to take aptitude tests and attend multiple rounds of interviews. This process can be exhausting and time-consuming, leaving candidates feeling drained and discouraged.
3. The “Meet and Greet” Culture
In Japan, it is common for companies to hold “meet and greet” events where candidates can interact with current employees and learn more about the company culture. While this may seem like a good opportunity to network and get a feel for the company, these events can be incredibly stressful. Candidates are expected to dress in business attire, prepare a self-introduction, and engage in small talk with strangers. For introverts or those with social anxiety, these events can be a nightmare.
4. The Emphasis on Grades and Prestigious Universities
In Japan, grades and university prestige are everything when it comes to job hunting. Many companies only consider candidates who graduated from top universities or have high GPAs. This puts students from lesser-known universities or those who struggled academically at a disadvantage. It also perpetuates the idea that success is only achievable through academic achievement, which can be damaging to mental health and self-esteem.
5. The Negative Impact on Mental Health
Shukatsu can have a negative impact on mental health. The pressure to conform, the lengthy application process, and the emphasis on grades and university prestige can all contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-worth. In extreme cases, shukatsu can lead to “hikikomori,” a phenomenon where individuals become reclusive and withdraw from society altogether.
6. The “Ninja” Culture
Another aspect of shukatsu that makes it “kimoi” is the “ninja” culture. This refers to the practice of sneaking around and hiding job hunting activities from current employers or colleagues. In Japan, it is considered taboo to look for a new job while still employed. This puts candidates in a difficult position, as they must balance the need to find a new job with the fear of being caught and potentially losing their current job.
7. The “Black Companies”
Finally, one of the darkest aspects of shukatsu in Japan is the prevalence of “black companies.” These are companies that exploit their employees through long working hours, low pay, and poor working conditions. Unfortunately, many job seekers are desperate to find work and may not be aware of the company’s reputation until it is too late. This can lead to a cycle of job hopping and dissatisfaction.
Conclusion
Shukatsu may be an important milestone in a Japanese person’s life, but it is not without its challenges. The pressure to conform, the lengthy application process, the “meet and greet” culture, the emphasis on grades and university prestige, the negative impact on mental health, the “ninja” culture, and the prevalence of “black companies” all contribute to the “kimoi” nature of shukatsu. It is important for job seekers to be aware of these challenges and to take care of their mental and emotional well-being throughout the process.
