So you made it and now all you have to do is make sure you graduate and don’t screw up (like getting arrested).
Everything begins for most new recruits/employees April 1st, which will be your fast day on the job. Some companies are now starting to hire both in Fall (Oct.1st) and Spring )April).
So what happens on April 1st?
Most companies will have some sort of entrance ceremony for the new hire group. This is where you will throw away your backpack and flip-flops and exchange it for dress shoes and brief case. You are now a offical member of the working society as people in Japan like to think.
This ceremony usually takes place in the morning where all the top officials from the company will come out to welcome you. You will hear some sort of speech possible about the company’s history, future, and some words of encouragement regarding your next adventure. Most companies this is a formal event so you should look nice unless the company says different.
After the ceremony you move into your training group room. Some hold the training at the office, others might do it at a hotel or some other place. At my company we hold the ceremony at a nearby hotel, and then everyone comes to our office where they enter into the training room. This room is where they will call home for the next month or two depending on the companies training program.
Then you will be there until the end of the day and will possible attend a welcome party with the Executives and a few employees from the company. It is a time to relax and get to know each other so enjoy it and drink and eat to your hearts content.
Next up…Training
A Guide to Job Hunting in Japan 