In this article, we share indian decade-long journey in Japan, the challenges he faced, the competitive strengths he utilized, and the single biggest reason why choosing a career in Japan outweighs the potential salary differences.(He is currently working in India.)
From Curiosity to Career: The Start of His Japanese Journey
You look young in that photo!
Let’s start at the beginning. What first brought you here?
Yes, it is before about 15 years one.
Funny enough, it was my cousin. He worked at Japanese company. He’d bring back all these cool souvenirs, but I couldn’t read the characters! That frustration—that curiosity—sent me online, and that’s how I started learning Japanese.
So, pure curiosity led to a major career pivot?
Exactly. I realized combining my IT background with Japanese fluency was a smart, strategic choice. I saw Japan as a top global economy, and the language was an invaluable skill.
The Kindness that Defined Safety
Once you were here, what made you stay? It wasn’t the salary, right?
No, it wasn’t the paycheck. It came down to three non-monetary things: culture, manners, and safety. But I’ll admit, adapting wasn’t easy!
Especially strict on time etc….
You mentioned safety isn’t just about low crime. Can you explain that?
Sure. I have one unforgettable memory. Soon after arriving, I got completely lost and asked a stranger for directions. This person didn’t just point or walk me to the corner they saw I was a foreigner and walked with me for 45 minutes all the way to my company dormitory.
45 minutes!! That’s incredible.
I know! I was amazed. That incident showed me that Japan’s safety is deeply supported by its inherent spirit of mutual assistance and order among the people. It’s a profound thing.
The Indian Professional’s Advantage
For other Indian professionals looking at Japan, what are their competitive “weapons”?
We have two major strengths. First and foremost, English. Most Indian people speak English, so it’s a great weapon in a global environment. Secondly, we have the Spirit of Respect.
That’s a great insight into cross-cultural communication.
Indians naturally possess a deep-seated respect for the other person, regardless of their seniority. I found that was genuinely appreciated in the Japanese workplace. It helps us quickly create a friendly atmosphere and expand our network.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Appeal
So, after all your experience, why did you ultimately choose Japan, even if the salary might be better elsewhere?
The answer is definitive and simple: safety. I truly believe Japan is probably the safest country in the world.
That perspective makes a lot of sense, especially when factoring in family life. Do you have any final advice for people like me who are aiming for a career here?
Yes, remember this: Manners over language. There are people who speak good Japanese but have poor manners, and they struggle here. you must strive to love the culture, respect the rules, and constantly aim to “avoid inconveniencing others.”
Summary
This interview highlights that success for foreign professionals in Japan hinges on prioritizing Japanese manners and cultural respect over mere language fluency. The true reward of a Japanese career is not salary, but the unmatched personal safety and high Quality of Life (QoL), providing a stable foundation for long-term growth.
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