Alvin Tan: 6 Controversial Reasons Foreigners should work for Japanese Companies

Have you ever been curious about working for a Japanese company but felt discouraged by stories of long hours, low pay, rigid hierarchies, and mandatory social drinking? If so, this episode is for you. Our guest, Alvin Tan, dives into his controversial Medium article, "Why More Foreigners in Japan Should Work for Japanese Companies: Six Reasons to Consider It."

The article sparked a firestorm online, generating nearly 100 negative comments on social media, with many Japan experts calling working for a Japanese company a career dead end. But Alvin challenges that narrative, sharing six compelling reasons why it might actually be a great opportunity for foreigners.

As someone who has worked for two Japanese companies myself, I’ve seen firsthand the benefits—and was inspired to offer my own six reasons why it’s worth considering. Together, we break down 12 reasons why working for a Japanese company might just be the career move you didn’t know you needed. Other topics we discuss:

• Learning about real Japan via Japanese corporate culture
• Mastering the Japanese concept of QC, Customer Service, and Hospitality
• The difference between Otsukaresama and Gokorosama?
• Why Japanese companies don't have clear job descriptions
• Why one is unlikely to ever get fired from a Japanese company
• The pay isn’t good, but the benefits are usually great
• You get paid to practice Japanese
• Being a great stepping stone for better job opportunities
• Alvin's two favorite untranslatable Japanese words

Alvin Tan on Medium: https://medium.com/@alvintwrites
Alvin Tan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alvin-tan

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