1） Trouble with wage deductions

Some employers withhold various expenses, such as taxes, social insurance premiums, housing costs, and social association fees, directly from salaries, causing trouble. However, numerous foreign employees express dissatisfaction with having certain expenses, especially "social association fees" for company outings, deducted from their salaries, which can lead to problems.

To avoid these problems, it's crucial to have a transparent discussion with your employer before joining about the purpose and amount of any deductions.

2）Issues arising from cultural differences

【Customs and Values】

It's important to understand that foreign employees may have different customs and values from Japanese culture. In certain countries, time may be viewed more loosely, or values may prioritize "home and family" over work.

In some countries, such as Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, and other Southeast Asian countries, it is not customary to greet workers when they arrive and leave work or to say "no" when taking a break, unlike Japan where it is a common practice.

To prevent misunderstandings, research and discuss the cultural norms and practices of the country where you're working. Additionally, ensure that your employer provides clear explanations of Japanese culture, workplace etiquette, and company rules.

【Religion】

For instance, there are followers of Islam in Asian countries who pray several times a day. The workday should allow time for prayer and provide a prayer room if necessary. Different religions may have dietary restrictions in place, prohibiting certain foods or drinks. Employers should not compel employees to go out for drinks or meals, and if needed, provide a menu in the cafeteria to cater to their requirements.

【Overtime Work】

Globally, there are few countries that have a system of overtime work like Japan. There is work that needs to be completed, and you might go home without working overtime... If this is the case, please have an open-hearted conversation and ask them whether you will be paid appropriately for overtime, and if they expect you to remain on the job with their content. 

【Changing Jobs】

Often there is a difference between Japanese and non-Japanese employees in terms of their attitudes toward changing jobs. When you are dissatisfied with a company, you might want to actively seek to change jobs in order to further develop your career. This kind of culture is not a popular one in Japan and it would sometimes be difficult for you to suddenly resign for a new job, please be careful when doing so!

To prevent problems and misunderstandings caused by cultural differences, it is important to promote communication between you and your employer. Please have your superiors explain the differences in culture and values when entering a Japanese company so that you can work without any misunderstandings

After entering a Japanese company, you might not speak Japanese as well as expected. In order to prevent such situations, the following measures should be taken. 

【Create opportunities for active communication 】

Even if you do not speak Japanese well, if you have frequent communication within the company, you can create a work environment where foreign employees feel comfortable asking questions and exchanging opinions.

Even if it is just a casual conversation, you should actively talk to your coworkers, even for casual conversation, you should actively talk to your coworkers.

In addition, you might be in a situation where you are stuck together with fellow foreign nationals in the workplace and not use Japanese at all, meaning that you will not be able to make communication improvements. Creating an atmosphere where Japanese and you interact without barriers is essential to overcome the language barrier. Force yourself to communicate!

【Directions】

Asking for your Japanese employers to give you proper instructions is also very important. For example, “If possible, could you please do it tomorrow” instead of “Please make sure to do it by tomorrow” is very different but because of cultural differences, you might not understand sentence nuances. Do not hesitate to ask your superiors to give clear instructions without omitting any details. 

【Interpretation Support】

Receive interpretation assistance from a registered support or supervisory organization.

Utilize the resources provided by a registered support or supervisory organization that specializes in aiding foreign employees.

Our organization offers employment support and referrals specifically for Vietnamese nationals. We have several Vietnamese staff members who provide support, primarily interpretation, even after employment decisions have been made.

Having access to immediate consultation in your native language not only will reassure you, but also provides your company with a significant advantage in preventing and addressing problems.

4） Diplomatic Sensitivity

Avoid discussing sensitive diplomatic topics at work, as these conversations can lead to misunderstandings or conflicts. Both Japanese and foreign employees should receive guidance on avoiding such issues.

By addressing these challenges and fostering open communication, foreign nationals can enjoy a more comfortable and productive work environment in Japan.