Career culture in Japan is often seen as unique and different from other countries, especially in terms of its lifetime employment system, long working hours, strict hierarchy, and high loyalty. However, in recent years, Japan's work culture has also been changing and adapting to the global trends and challenges, such as digital transformation, diversity and inclusion, work-life balance, and innovation. In this article, we will explore some of the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of career culture in Japan, and how it affects both Japanese and foreign workers.
One of the most distinctive features of career culture in Japan is the lifetime employment system, which means that employees are hired by a company after graduating from school or university, and stay with the same company until retirement. This system creates a strong sense of belonging and commitment among the employees, who are expected to work hard and follow the company's rules and values. The lifetime employment system also provides stability and security for the employees, who rarely face the risk of being laid off or fired. However, the lifetime employment system also has some drawbacks, such as the lack of mobility and flexibility for the employees, who may have limited opportunities to change their career paths or switch to other companies. The lifetime employment system also puts pressure on the employees, who may have to endure long working hours, overtime, and stress, without much reward or recognition.https://globisinsights.com/purpose/values/japanese-working-culture/https://www.ejable.com/japan-corner/working-in-japan/japanese-work-culture/
Another characteristic of career culture in Japan is the long working hours, which are often seen as a sign of dedication and diligence. Japanese workers tend to work longer hours than workers in other developed countries, and some even work until late at night or on weekends. According to a survey by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the average monthly overtime hours of Japanese workers in 2019 was 39.4 hours, which was higher than the legal limit of 36 hours.https://www.rgf-professional.jp/en/insights/2020-09-work-culture-in-japan-globalizing-workforce-lifetime-employment-overtime-and-contract-termination The long working hours are partly due to the high workload and expectations of the employers and clients, and partly due to the social and cultural norms of the Japanese society, which value harmony, loyalty, and conformity. However, the long working hours also have negative impacts on the health and well-being of the workers, who may suffer from fatigue, stress, depression, or even death from overwork, known as karoshi.https://www.tofugu.com/japan/careers-in-japan/ The long working hours also affect the work-life balance and the personal and family life of the workers, who may have less time and energy for leisure, hobbies, or relationships.https://www.robertwalters.co.jp/en/hiring/hiring-trend-2020/japan.html
A third feature of career culture in Japan is the strict hierarchy, which is based on the seniority and status of the employees. The hierarchy system determines the roles, responsibilities, and relationships of the employees within the company, and also influences the communication and decision-making processes. The hierarchy system requires the employees to respect and obey their superiors, and to follow the chain of command and the protocol. The hierarchy system also fosters a sense of order and discipline among the employees, who are expected to follow the rules and procedures, and to avoid conflicts and disagreements. However, the hierarchy system also has some limitations, such as the lack of autonomy and creativity for the employees, who may have to follow the instructions and opinions of their superiors, without much input or feedback. The hierarchy system also slows down the communication and decision-making processes, as the employees have to go through multiple layers of approval and consultation, and to use formal and polite language.
A fourth aspect of career culture in Japan is the high loyalty, which is shown by the employees to their company and their colleagues. The high loyalty is partly a result of the lifetime employment system, which creates a strong bond and trust among the employees, who are treated as a part of a family or a community. The high loyalty is also a reflection of the Japanese culture and values, which emphasize harmony, cooperation, and collectivism. The high loyalty motivates the employees to work hard and to support each other, and to put the interests and goals of the company and the team above their own. However, the high loyalty also has some challenges, such as the difficulty of adapting to the changing and competitive global market, which requires more flexibility and innovation. The high loyalty also makes it hard for the employees to express their opinions and preferences, or to challenge the status quo, which may lead to frustration and dissatisfaction.
In conclusion, career culture in Japan is a complex and dynamic phenomenon, which has both positive and negative aspects. Career culture in Japan is influenced by the historical, social, and cultural factors, as well as the global trends and challenges. Career culture in Japan affects both Japanese and foreign workers, who have to understand and adapt to the working practices and expectations in Japan. Career culture in Japan is also changing and evolving, as the Japanese companies and workers are trying to improve their work environment and performance, and to achieve a better balance between work and life.
Tech Alliance edit team