Please let me know if there are any words I should not say in Japanese interview.
就活ナビ
I thought that many international students say NG words in interviews and get points deducted, so I would like to introduce NG words that international students tend to say in interviews.
NG words that international students tend to say at interviews are very common for international students.
In fact, even words that you use in your daily life without any problem may give a negative image to the interviewer.
It is important to avoid NG words that give a bad image to the interviewer in order not to be dropped in the interview.
Motive for applying: NG words that international students tend to say
NG Word 1: Because I want to work for grobal.
One of the most common reasons why international students tend to say “I want to work for global” is because they want to work for the company
There is nothing wrong with saying “I want to work for a global company.
However, since there are so many companies in the global market, simply saying “I want to work for global” is not enough to show how much you want to work for the company.
You need to be specific about “what you hope to achieve by working for Grubal” and “how you want to work for Grubal” in the interview.
Think about what “working for Grubal” means to you.
NG word 2: I want to use my language skills
The motive “I want to make use of my language skills” may seem appealing at first glance, but it must be explained in more detail.
Just having language skills does not mean that you can do the job. It is also important to have the necessary business knowledge, skills, communication skills, and teamwork to do the job.
Therefore, simply showing off your language skills is not a sufficient reason for a company to hire you.
To convince the interviewer, clearly explain how you would like to utilize your language skills in the job .
It is important not just to tell the interviewer that you want to make use of your language skills, but to tell the interviewer what you want to do with your language skills, which are your strengths.
Reasons for Wanting to Work in Japan: NG Words Foreign Students Often Say
NG Word 1: “I like Japanese culture.
By asking you why you want to work in Japan, the interviewer is checking to see if you will be a long-term employee.
Therefore, just liking Japanese culture is not a sufficient appeal.
The interviewer is not looking to see if you like the Japan, but if you can work in Japan long-term.
In order to appeal your desire to work in Japan on a long-term basis, tell them about your goals and career plans you are aiming for in Japan.
NG Word 2 : Because life in Japan is stable.
“Because life in Japan is stable” is not a very attractive reason for companies.
Companies are looking for people who can develop their own careers and contribute to the company.
It is natural to want a stable life in Japan, but if that is your only reason for applying, you will not be able to convince the interviewer.
Self-confident remarks: NG words that foreign students tend to say
NG Word 1: No experience in Japan
If you say “I have no work experience in Japan” during an interview, you give the interviewer the impression that you are not confident in your own abilities.
Instead, you can say, “I have no experience in Japan, but I can (emphasize your skills and experience).
Instead of just saying negatively, “I have no work experience in Japan,” show that you want to make the most of the skills you have.
NG Word 2: I am not good at speaking Japanese.
Japanese language skills are required for foreign students to work for Japanese companies.
Saying “I am not good at speaking Japanese” gives the impression that you lack communication skills, which is important for Japanese companies.
Instead, you can show your positive attitude by saying, “I am studying Japanese and making efforts to communicate confidently.
“I’m sorry, my Japanese is not very good”.
This expression differs from the culture in which Japanese people humble themselves. It makes the interviewer think that the person is not confident.
Others: NG words that foreign students tend to say
NG Word 1: In my country, we do things differently.
International students are so proud about their country of origin that “In my country, ……. However, this expression may make the interviewer wonder if the student can adapt to the Japanese workplace.
However, this expression makes the interviewer wonder if you can adapt to the Japanese workplace.
Instead, you can say, “I am adapting to the Japanese business culture and improving my Japanese language skills.
When you apply for a job in Japan as a International students, it is important to demonstrate your ability to adapt to the Japanese culture and workplace.
NG Word 2: You do not understand Japanese business culture.
There are times when International students cannot understand Japanese business culture when working in Japan.
However, if you tell the interviewer that you do not understand Japanese business culture, you will give the interviewer the impression that you lack the ability to adapt to Japanese business culture.
Instead, you can say, “I have learned about and understand Japanese business culture.
Show that you want to learn Japanese business etiquette as a member of society at the interview.
The end
Finally,To all international students, the most important factor when seeking employment in Japan is mastering the Japanese language. Smooth communication in Japan’s workplace environment and society relies on using the right words to express yourself effectively. Furthermore, having strong Japanese language skills provides advantages in various situations, from selecting job opportunities to interviews and actual job tasks. By enhancing your Japanese language proficiency, you can approach your work with confidence.
offers a solution to the language barrier faced by international students during job hunting by providing a free Japanese conversation room exclusively for foreign students. If you’re interested in learning Japanese, we encourage you to join us. Please feel free to participate!
