How to Make a Resume in Japan
But what happens when you don’t follow the right format?
That’s exactly what happened to me. After sending out countless resumes that followed the Western style, I received zero callbacks. It wasn’t until a Japanese friend pointed out that my resume was all wrong that things started to turn around. Here’s what I learned — and what you should know if you’re planning to apply for jobs in Japan.
The Two Key Components: Rirekisho and Shokumukeirekisho
In Japan, you’ll typically need two documents: a rirekisho and a shokumukeirekisho. These are the Japanese equivalents of a resume, but there are some important differences.
- Rirekisho: This is a more standardized form and typically includes basic personal information, academic background, and work history. It’s often handwritten, though digital versions are increasingly accepted. The rirekisho is quite rigid in terms of formatting.
- Shokumukeirekisho: This is more akin to the Western resume, where you highlight your professional achievements, skills, and job experiences. Unlike the rirekisho, this document offers more flexibility to describe your qualifications in detail.
What happens if you only send one of these? Employers might assume you lack the cultural knowledge or that you’re not taking the application seriously. In Japan, thoroughness and attention to detail are highly valued, and not providing both could hurt your chances.
Photo: Yes, It’s Mandatory
One major difference that catches many foreigners off guard is the requirement to include a photo on your rirekisho. This is not optional. A passport-sized photograph is attached to the top right corner of the resume. The photo should be formal — think of the pictures you take for your government ID or passport. Casual selfies or vacation photos won’t work.
No Fancy Fonts, No Design Creativity
Forget the fancy templates that are popular in Western countries. Japanese resumes are incredibly simple, and creativity in design is not appreciated. Keep it clean, minimalistic, and professional. Use standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman, and make sure the formatting is tidy and consistent. You want to show your organization skills, not your artistic flair.
Language: Should You Use English or Japanese?
If you're applying to a Japanese company, writing your resume in Japanese is almost always expected. For international companies operating in Japan, an English resume may suffice, but you might still need to submit a rirekisho in Japanese, especially for HR departments.
Handwritten vs. Typed: The Traditional Way Still Matters
In many companies, especially the more traditional ones, a handwritten rirekisho is still the norm. The act of handwriting the resume shows effort, care, and dedication. It reflects your serious attitude toward the job application. However, as digital tools become more widespread, typing is becoming more acceptable, especially for the shokumukeirekisho.
Tailor-Made Resumes Are Rare
Unlike Western resumes, which are often customized for each job, Japanese resumes tend to be more standardized. You won’t be tweaking your rirekisho to fit each job application. Instead, the shokumukeirekisho is where you’ll adjust details to highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the position.
Date of Birth: It’s Expected
In Japan, it’s standard to include your date of birth on the resume. Unlike in the West, where age discrimination laws often discourage sharing this information, Japanese companies expect it. Including your age is seen as a form of transparency, and omitting it can be viewed as suspicious.
Marital Status and Family Information
Though this would be highly unusual in many Western countries, Japanese resumes often ask for details like marital status and the number of dependents. While this may feel intrusive to foreigners, it’s quite common in Japan. It’s another example of the more personal nature of job applications in Japan.
Educational Background
Your educational background is of immense importance in Japan. List all schools attended, from high school onwards, including the exact start and end dates. Japanese employers expect this level of detail. Missing even minor information can lead to unnecessary questions, so make sure everything is listed clearly.
Work History: Chronological and Detailed
Unlike some Western resumes, which might focus on skills or accomplishments first, Japanese resumes typically list work experience in reverse chronological order, with clear start and end dates. Don’t forget to include part-time jobs (アルバイト) if they’re relevant to the job you’re applying for.
Personal Statement
While not always required, some companies appreciate a brief personal statement (自己PR). This is your opportunity to express why you’re a good fit for the company and what you bring to the table. Keep it succinct, but impactful.
No Cover Letter Needed
Here’s some good news for those tired of crafting the perfect cover letter: Japanese employers don’t typically expect one. The rirekisho and shokumukeirekisho are usually enough. If a company does request a cover letter, it will be explicitly mentioned in the job listing.
Attention to Detail Is Non-Negotiable
Mistakes on your resume are unforgivable. In Japan, where precision and accuracy are prized, even a small typo or formatting error can be grounds for rejecting an application. Double-check everything before you submit. If you’re handwriting your resume, ensure your penmanship is neat and legible. If it’s typed, check for consistency in font, spacing, and margins.
Additional Certifications or Skills
In Japan, certifications (資格) are highly valued. If you have any relevant qualifications — especially language certifications like the JLPT — make sure to include them. These can give you an edge over other candidates.
What About Gaps in Employment?
Gaps in your work history are less tolerated in Japan than in some Western countries. If you have a gap, be prepared to explain it in a positive light. Japanese employers are less forgiving of unexplained periods of unemployment, so it’s better to address it upfront rather than hoping they won’t notice.
Conclusion: Adapt or Be Overlooked
If you’re serious about working in Japan, adapting your resume to fit the local standards is non-negotiable. It may seem tedious and overly formal, but following these guidelines shows respect for the culture and gives you the best chance of standing out in a competitive job market. Remember, a resume in Japan is not just a document — it’s a reflection of who you are as a person, your professionalism, and your attention to detail. Take the time to get it right, and you’ll be one step closer to landing your ideal job in Japan.
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