Are you an IT professional planning to work in Japan? One of the first hurdles you will face is preparing the correct job application documents for Japan. Unlike in Western countries, where a single 1-2 page resume is sufficient, Japanese companies typically require two distinct documents: the "Rirekisho" and the "Shokumu Keirekisho."For software engineers and technical professionals, the Shokumu Keirekisho (Curriculum Vitae / Career History) is the most critical document. It is where you showcase your technical stack, project experience, and engineering skills.In this guide, we will explain the standard Japanese CV format, provide an IT engineer CV example, and offer a Japanese CV template specifically designed for developers.Note: If you are worried about the language barrier or finding companies that accept English CVs, GTalent specializes in connecting global engineers with English-speaking tech jobs in Japan.[Free Template] Complete Guide to Japanese Resumes for IT EngineersJob Application Documents in Japan: Rirekisho vs Shokumu KeirekishoBefore diving into the writing process, it is essential to understand the difference between the two required documents. This is a common point of confusion known as the Japanese resume vs CV.Rirekisho (Japanese Resume)A standardized form that acts as a simple profile. It includes your photo, education history, brief employment timeline, and basic personal information. It is static and factual.Shokumu Keirekisho (Career History / Japanese CV)A detailed document describing what you did in your previous jobs. For engineers, this acts as a technical resume for Japan. It details your projects, the technologies used (languages, frameworks, tools), and your specific contributions.While the Rirekisho is a formality, the Shokumu Keirekisho is what gets you the interview.Download Your Software Engineer CV TemplateReady to start writing? You don't need to start from scratch. We have prepared a software engineer CV template that follows the industry standard in Japan.Download Template職務経歴書(Template with English guidance).docx※ Available in Microsoft Word format.Pro Tip: Once you complete your Shokumu Keirekisho, don't just keep it on your desktop. GitTap is a job platform specifically for foreign IT engineers in Japan. By uploading your profile and skill sheet there, Japanese tech companies can scout you directly based on your technical stack.How to Write a Shokumu Keirekisho for EngineersWriting a Shokumu Keirekisho can be daunting, but following a standard structure makes it easier. An effective Engineer CV in Japan should generally include the following sections:Sections 1–5: Basic Information & Skills SummaryName & Date: Always include the submission date. Avoid using a date older than 3 months, as it may give the impression that you are reusing an outdated document.Professional Summary: Summarize your entire career in 3 to 5 lines. Hiring managers use this section to decide whether to keep reading your resume.Work History Overview: List your work experience in reverse chronological order (starting with your most recent position).Core Competencies & Knowledge: Use bullet points to highlight your key strengths and areas of expertise.Technical Skills (Crucial):IT: List languages, frameworks, OS, databases, and tools (e.g., AWS, Docker).Mechanical & Electrical (M&E): List CAD software (e.g., CATIA, NX, SolidWorks), measuring instruments, PLCs, and safety standards (e.g., ISO 26262).Note: Organize these in a table format along with your "years of professional experience" for each skill.Section 6: Work Experience (The Core of Your Resume)This is the most critical part of your application. List your projects starting from the most recent. The key is to focus not just on what you did, but on how you contributed.Project Duration & Scale: Include the timeframe, team size, and budget (if applicable).Role: Clearly state your position (e.g., Individual Contributor, Team Lead, Project Manager).Project Phases (Scope of Work):IT: Requirements Definition, Basic Design, Detailed Design, Implementation/Coding, Testing, Operations & Maintenance.M&E: Conceptual Design, Detailed Design, Analysis (CAE), Prototyping, Testing/Evaluation, Mass Production Launch.Achievements & Outcomes: Focus on quantitative results. For example: "Reduced costs by X%," "Improved yield by X%," or “Shortened delivery lead time by X days.”Shokumu Keirekisho Translation: Tips for Foreign EngineersA common mistake is simply using a translation tool to convert your English resume into Japanese. This often fails because the Shokumu Keirekisho translation requires localization, not just translation.English resumes are often concise (1-2 pages). A Shokumu Keirekisho is expected to be more detailed (2-4 pages for experienced engineers). When translating, you often need to expand on your English bullet points to fit the descriptive style of the Japanese CV format.If you are not confident in your business Japanese, it is highly recommended to have your CV reviewed by a bilingual recruitment agent.ConclusionCreating a high-quality Shokumu Keirekisho is your first step toward a successful career in Japan. By focusing on a clear Skill Sheet and a detailed Project History, you can effectively communicate your value as an engineer to Japanese hiring managers.If you need professional advice on your Japanese CV or want to find high-paying tech jobs in Japan, contact GTalent today.Ready to take the next step?For Direct Offers: Register on GitTap to get scouted by tech companies looking for your specific skills.For Career Advice: Consult with GTalent agents to find high-paying, non-public-sector jobs that meet your visa requirements.

Thinking of working as a software engineer in Japan?  To land your dream job in Tokyo's thriving tech scene—whether in robotics, AI, or gaming—you need more than just code. You need a proper Japanese resume ("Rirekisho").Unlike Western CVs, the Japanese Rirekisho has a unique format that reflects Japan's business culture. But don't worry. In this guide, you will get:Free Templates: Downloadable Excel format, ready to use.Step-by-Step Instructions: How to fill out every section specifically for developers.Key Differences: Understanding "Rirekisho" vs. "Shokumu-keirekisho" (CV). Mastering this document is your first step toward a high-paying engineering career in Japan. Let’s get started.Why You Need a Japanese Resume (Rirekisho) as an Engineer1. The Gateway to the Japanese Tech Industry Japan is not just about Anime and delicious food; it is a global powerhouse in technology. From world-class automotive manufacturing and robotics to the rapidly growing Web and AI sectors in Tokyo, the demand for international IT talent is at an all-time high.While your coding skills (Python, Java, Go, etc.) are critical, Japanese companies also value "trust" and "consistency." The Rirekisho is the standard document used to verify your background and show that you are serious about adapting to Japanese business culture.2. "Do I need to speak fluent Japanese?" This is the most common concern. While speaking Japanese is a huge plus, it is not always mandatory.Many modern tech companies and startups in Japan now use English as their primary working language. They are looking for your technical expertise first. However, submitting a properly formatted Japanese resume—even if you use a template—demonstrates your respect for the culture and significantly increases your chances of getting an interview. Note: If you are worried about the language barrier, GTalent specializes in connecting global engineers with English-speaking tech jobs in Japan. Rirekisho vs. Shokumu-keirekisho: What’s the Difference?In Western countries, a "Resume" or "CV" usually covers everything. In Japan, you generally need two separate documents to apply for a job:1. Rirekisho (履歴書 - Japanese Resume)Purpose: A standardized "Profile" document.Content: Personal info, education history, employment timeline, and basic qualifications.Format: Very strict layout. It rarely changes regardless of the job you apply for.2. Shokumu-keirekisho (職務経歴書 - Japanese CV / Career History)Purpose: To showcase your Technical Skills.Content: Detailed project experiences, programming languages (e.g., React, AWS, Docker), team size, and your specific role in each project.Format: Free format (but there are standard practices). For IT Engineers, the "Shokumu-keirekisho" is where you prove your code; the "Rirekisho" is where you prove your character.This guide focuses on the Rirekisho. If you need to write a Shokumu-keirekisho, check our article below[Free Template]Japanese CV Guide for Engineers: How to Write a Shokumu Keirekisho & Rirekisho Download Free Japanese Resume Template (Excel)First, download our standardized Japanese Resume template. It is in Excel format, so you can easily edit it on your computer.Download Templaterirekisho_format.xlsx – 31 KB※ Available in Microsoft Excel format.Pro Tip: Once you complete your resume, don't just keep it on your desktop. GitTap is a job platform specifically for foreign IT engineers in Japan. By uploading your profile there, Japanese tech companies can scout you directly.Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Out Your Rirekisho1. Basic Personal Information (基本情報)Name: Write your name in English (alphabet) as it appears on your passport. Adding "Katakana" pronunciation is helpful for HR managers.Photo: Essential in Japan. Wear a clean shirt (a suit is safer, but smart casual is often okay for tech jobs). Look straight at the camera. No selfies.Address: If you are overseas, write your country and current address.2. Education & Work History (学歴・職歴) This section is for the timeline.Education: List from high school onward.Work History: List your companies in chronological order.For Engineers: You don't need to list every programming language here (save that for the Shokumu-keirekisho). Just write the Company Name, Department (e.g., Software Development Dept.), and "Entered/Left".3. Licenses & Qualifications (免許・資格) This is a great chance to highlight your tech stack and language ability.Language: JLPT (N1-N5), TOEIC, TOEFL.Tech Certifications: AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Google Cloud Professional, Cisco (CCNA/CCNP), Salesforce, etc.Note: Write the official name of the qualification and the month/year you obtained it.4. Motivation & Requests (志望動機・本人希望欄)Motivation: Keep it brief. Focus on why you want to work in Japan and for that specific company.Commuting Time: If you live abroad, leave it blank.Requests: Usually, write "I will comply with your company regulations" (貴社規定に従います). If you have strict conditions (e.g., fully remote work due to visa processing), you can mention them here, but it's better to discuss this during the interview.For Direct Offers: Register on GitTap to get scouted by tech companies.For Career Advice: Consult with G Talent agents to find high-paying, non-public-sector jobs that meet your visa requirements.Common Mistakes Foreign Engineers MakeEven skilled developers make simple mistakes on their resumes that can cost them an interview. Avoid these common pitfalls:1. Mixing CalendarsJapan often uses the Imperial calendar (e.g., Reiwa 6) in conjunction with the Western calendar (2024). Stick to the Western calendar (2024) for consistency unless you are very familiar with the Japanese system.2. Handwriting vs. TypingTraditionally, Japanese resumes were handwritten. Today, typing on a PC is perfectly acceptable and preferred for IT jobs. It shows you can use basic tools efficiently.3. Using a "Selfie" PhotoWe cannot stress this enough. Even for startups, a casual selfie gives a sloppy impression. Use a clean, well-lit photo with a plain background.4. Ignoring GapsIf there is a gap in your employment history, be prepared to explain it. Japanese HR managers often check for consistency in your career timeline.Conclusion: Start Your Career in Japan TodayThe Japanese Rirekisho is more than just paperwork; it is your passport to a new life and career in one of the world's most exciting tech hubs.By following this guide and using the template, you have already cleared the first hurdle. But remember, the resume is just a tool. The goal is to land the job. Ready to take the next step?Get Scouted: Upload your new resume to GitTap and let Japanese companies come to you.Get Expert Help: If you want professional advice on visa sponsorship, salary negotiation, or interview prep, register with GTalent. Our bilingual consultants specialize in helping foreign engineers succeed in Japan.

This online job fair is designed specifically for IT Engineers currently in Japan. If you meet the criteria below, this is an excellent opportunity for you to explore new possibilities!Participants Only! 10 Winners will be randomly selected to receive a ¥5,000 Amazon Gift Card!Who Should Attend?This event is for IT Engineers with at least two years of practical experience and Business-level Japanese proficiency.Event DetailsDate & Time: Wednesday, December 17th, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. JST (Subject to Change)Language: This event will be conducted entirely in Japanese.Flexibility: Feel free to join and leave at your preferred time – just like watching TV! The companies currently scheduled to participate are as follows:・Mico, Inc.・AUCNET INC.・AZAPA Co., LTD.・LabBase, Inc*Schedules and the number of companies are subject to change without notice.Click here to Register: Please use the same email address you registered with for GitTap.GitTap ProfileTo participate, you must have a completed profile registration on GitTap.----Ready to Explore Your Next Career Step?----If you're an IT Engineer in Japan looking for new opportunities, don't miss out! Please feel free to register if you're interested in this event. We look forward to seeing you there!Register Here!!

This online job fair is designed specifically for IT Engineers currently in Japan. If you meet the criteria below, this is an excellent opportunity for you to explore new possibilities!Who Should Attend?This event is for IT Engineers with at least two years of practical experience and Business-level Japanese proficiency.Event DetailsDate & Time: Wednesday, November 26th, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. JSTLanguage: This event will be conducted entirely in Japanese.Flexibility: Feel free to join and leave at your preferred time – just like watching TV!6:00 PM - 6:10 PM　Opening6:10 PM - 6:25 PM　ISF NET, Inc.6:25 PM - 6:40 PM　ReNK CHANNEL Co., Ltd.6:40 PM - 6:45 PM　Break6:45 PM - 7:00 PM　Japaniace Co., Ltd.7:00 PM - 7:15 PM　Ruby Development Inc.7:15 PM - 7:30 PM　Evoltech Co.,Ltd.7:35 PM - 7:40 PM　ClosingImportant NotesClick here to Register: Please use the same email address you registered with for GitTap.GitTap ProfileTo participate, you must have a completed profile registration on GitTap.----Ready to Explore Your Next Career Step?----If you're an IT Engineer in Japan looking for new opportunities, don't miss out! Please feel free to register if you're interested in this event. We look forward to seeing you there!Register Here!!

The number of foreign engineers working in Japan has been increasing in recent years, and the market value of foreign engineers in Japanese companies is high. So, why is the market value of foreign engineers so high? In this article, we will explain the actual situation and reasons for the market value of foreign engineers in Japanese companies.We will also introduce you to ways that foreign engineers can find jobs that suit them, so this is a must-see for anyone thinking of working as a foreign engineer in Japan. Find out about the market value of foreign engineers in Japanese companies and find a job that matches your own value. If you are having trouble finding a job in Japan, please use the job agency “G Talent”, which specializes in foreign engineers.The market value of foreign engineers in Japanese companies is highThe shortage of IT personnel in Japan is becoming more serious, and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's “Survey on IT Personnel Demand” released in 2019 reported that IT personnel are in short supply due to changes in the IT demand structure.According to the report, there will be a shortage of 220,000 IT personnel in 2018, 260,000 in 2019, and 300,000 in 2020, and it is expected that there will be a shortage of approximately 410,000 to 790,000 IT personnel by 2030. Depending on how IT progresses in the future, it can be seen that the shortage of IT personnel in Japan is extremely serious.One area that is attracting attention as a way to make up for the shortage of IT personnel is the recruitment of foreign IT engineers. According to the “Notification of Employment Status of Foreigners” published by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the number of foreign engineers working in Japan with a visa that allows them to work in Japan, “specialist/technical field status of residence”, is increasing year by year, and their market value appears to be increasing.In 2021, 394,509 people were working in Japan with the above visa, an increase of 9.7% compared to the previous year. Comparing the five years between 2014 and 2019, the number of foreign nationals working with the same visa status in 20 In 2014, the number of foreign nationals working in Japan with the same status of residence was 147,296, while in 2019, this figure was 329,034, recording a 2.2-fold increase over the five-year period. Against the backdrop of the continuing shortage of IT personnel in Japan, it can be predicted that the market value of foreign engineers will continue to rise in the future.Reference: 「外国人雇用状況」の届出状況まとめ【本文】（令和３年 10 月末現在）／厚生労働省What countries do foreign engineers working for Japanese companies come from?According to the “Employment Status of Foreigners” report by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the countries of origin of foreign engineers in the IT and other information and communications industries are mainly from East and Southeast Asia. China is in first place, followed by South Korea in second place, Vietnam in third place, and the United States in fourth place.There are also many foreign IT engineers from the Philippines, Nepal, Indonesia, Brazil and Peru working for Japanese companies. This shows that the market value of IT engineers from all over the world is high, regardless of their nationality.Reference: 「外国人雇用状況」の届出状況表一覧（令和３年10月末現在）／厚生労働省Reasons for the high market value of foreign engineersThere are five reasons why foreign engineers are highly valued in Japanese companies.Shortage of engineers in Japanese companiesMany Japanese companies are looking for excellent engineers who can hit the ground runningAble to bring in ideas that Japanese people don't haveAble to invigorate the companySupport for overseas expansionShortage of engineers in Japanese companiesIn many Japanese companies, a serious shortage of engineers is a problem. In particular, Japan is seriously behind in IT education, and programming and IT education, which have been introduced in other countries 5 to 10 years ago, will only become compulsory in elementary schools in Japan in 2021. In other words, Japanese IT education is more than 5 years behind that of other countries.This delay in education is one of the reasons why there is a shortage of Japanese engineers. In order to solve the shortage of engineers in Japan, the market value of foreign IT engineers is increasing.Reference: 日本は遅れてる？海外のプログラミング教育の現状！／コエテコMany Japanese companies are looking for excellent engineers who can hit the ground runningThe market value of foreign engineers is increasing because many Japanese companies are looking for excellent engineers who can hit the ground running. Many Japanese companies used to hire large numbers of new graduates and then train them in-house over time. On the other hand, educational institutions around the world are training excellent human resources who are just as capable as those who can be immediately put to work upon graduation from university.For example, at Mercari, 90% of the new graduate engineers hired in 2019 were foreign engineers from countries such as India. Some of the students from India were hired as excellent human resources after graduating from ITT, India's most prestigious and famous IT university.There are also countries like Vietnam that are developing their own IT human resources development policies. Rather than competing with each other to recruit talented people in Japan, where the labor force is declining, it is easier to find people who can be an immediate asset if you look at the world. This is one of the reasons why foreign engineers have a high market value.Reference: メルカリの新卒エンジニア9割が外国人、インドの次はどの国から採る？／DIAMOND onlineAble to bring in ideas that Japanese people don't haveForeign engineers have ideas and concepts that Japanese people don't have, and they are also quick to catch up with IT trends, which is another reason for their high market value. The world trends and ideas that foreign engineers bring to Japanese companies expand the information network and job options.There are systems and services that are commonplace overseas but do not yet exist in Japan, and there are also things that Japanese people would never think of. Because there is the possibility of coming up with ideas from completely different angles that Japanese people would never think of, this could be the impetus for the development of new products and services.Reference: 外国人ITエンジニア採用のメリットと注意点！／MichaelPageAble to invigorate the companyWorking with foreign engineers can revitalize the company, which is another reason why they are highly valued in the market. Many foreign engineers are very serious about their work, and they can deliver excellent performance even under tight deadlines and development conditions. Many of them also have a strong desire to grow, so working with foreign engineers can also be a stimulus for Japanese employees.Foreign engineers bring different cultures and values into the company, and this can sometimes lead to a shift from inefficient work practices to more rational methods. Exposure to different values can lead to the creation of a flexible and diverse organization.Reference: 不安だった初めての外国人採用、今は“日本人職員に刺激を与える存在”に。活躍の鍵は「安心して仕事ができる環境づくり」／Touch! PERSOLSupport for overseas expansionThere are also market value reasons for hiring foreign engineers who can support overseas expansion, such as becoming a bridge when expanding the company's services overseas. There are many companies that want to expand not only into the shrinking Japanese market, but also into the world. Rather than having Japanese people who don't know the local area working on projects, the presence of foreign engineers who know the real market and can understand foreign languages is a great support.Reference: 外国人労働者を採用するメリット6つ｜採用する時の注意点も紹介／株式会社オープンアップITエンジニアHow foreign engineers can find jobs that suit themThere are three ways for foreign engineers to find jobs at Japanese companies with high market value.Use job sites specializing in foreign engineersUse job agencies for foreignersSearch for companies that are hiring foreign engineersUse job sites specializing in foreign engineersThere are various job sites in Japan, but because general job sites have a large number of companies listed, it is difficult to find jobs for foreign engineers. If you want to efficiently find jobs for foreign engineers with high market value, try using a job site that specializes in foreign engineer employment. Because companies that want to hire excellent foreign engineers are registered, you can save time and effort collecting information and reach many companies.One of the leading job sites specializing in foreign engineers is "GitTap". With over 500 jobs registered from global companies, you can find a job that matches your preferences. When you register, you may receive a job offer from a company, so why not start with a free registration?Use job agencies for foreignersIf you are looking for a job in Japan for the first time, you may need support not only with finding a job, but also with things like designing your career in Japan, interview practice, and obtaining a visa. For people like this, we recommend using a recruitment agency that provides various types of support, rather than a job search website. They can assess each job seeker's skills and aptitude, and introduce them to companies that match their skills. You can also leave it to them to provide support for things like writing a resume and interview practice, which are different from other countries.We recommend the recruitment agency 'G Talent' for foreign engineers. Only carefully selected, high-quality companies from over 300 companies are registered, and registered users can take Japanese interview lessons for free. Please feel free to register as you will be supported by bilingual advisors who are familiar with the IT industry.▶︎To register "G Talent" is HERESearch for companies that are recruiting foreign engineersEven if you don't use job sites or recruitment agencies, it is possible to search for companies that are recruiting foreign engineers and reach out to them yourself. Some Japanese IT companies have their own recruitment sites, so if you apply directly, you can save yourself the trouble of going through a recruitment agency.In this case, you will have to communicate directly with the company yourself. You will need a work visa to work in Japan, so make sure you check how much support the company will provide.Reference: 転職は直接応募が有利なの？メリット・デメリットを知っておこう！／イーキャリアFA3 things foreign engineers should check before working for a Japanese companyAlthough Japanese companies have a high market value for foreign engineers, the following points must be taken into account in order to continue working comfortably at a Japanese company.Need a work visa to work at a Japanese companyNeed to be able to speak basic JapaneseBe aware of differences in values and cultureNeed a work visa to work at a Japanese companyForeign engineers need a work visa to work in Japan. There are several types of work visas, and foreign engineers can work in Japan if they obtain a “highly-specialized professional” visa or a “technology, humanities, and international services” visa with the “technology” status of residence.There are conditions for obtaining each type of visa. As it takes around 2-3 months from the time you prepare the documents to the time the application is processed, you should start preparing for your visa as soon as you receive your job offer.Reference: 外国人労働者のエンジニア就労ビザ取得／就労ビザ申請サポート大阪Need to be able to speak basic JapaneseIn order to work comfortably in a Japanese company, you need to be able to speak basic Japanese. This is because you will need basic Japanese when communicating with your team members and participating in business negotiations with customers.Even if you only learn the basic IT terminology and words commonly used in business situations, it will be useful in your day-to-day work. However, some IT companies have English as their official company language, or they employ bridge personnel to help with communication between foreign and Japanese engineers, so they have created an environment where foreign engineers can work even if they don't understand much Japanese. There's no need to worry too much, but it's not a bad idea to learn at least the minimum level of Japanese and manners.Reference: 英語公用語化でエンジニア採用応募者が激増　IT企業が見出した、グローバルに働く秘訣／logmiBizBe aware of differences in values and cultureIf you are aware that there are differences in culture and values between Japan and other countries, you will be able to work in Japan without suffering culture shock. For example, in other countries, people are valued for their willingness to speak up and make suggestions, and for their willingness to take on new challenges without being afraid of making mistakes, but in Japan, there are also environments where people are expected to follow their boss's instructions without asserting their own opinions too much.There are many differences in values and culture in the business world, so it is important to understand these differences so that you don't suffer culture shock every time you encounter them.Reference: 異文化理解のメリットとは？異文化理解の必要性や注意点も紹介／Bizmates BlogThe market value of foreign engineers is high! Let's find a workplace that suits you!In this article, we have explained the market value of foreign engineers in Japanese companies. The market value of foreign engineers in Japanese companies is on the rise, and the number of foreign engineers working in Japan is also increasing. The trend of hiring excellent foreign engineers will continue to accelerate in the future.If you are a foreign engineer looking for a company that suits you in Japan, we recommend the recruitment agency “G Talent”, which specializes in hiring foreign engineers. Bilingual consultants support the matching of foreign IT engineers with Japanese companies that are actively hiring foreigners, and help you to start your career in Japan. If you are an IT engineer interested in a career in Japan, please use 'G Talent'.

In recent years, the recruitment of foreign engineers has been attracting attention for a variety of reasons. However, there are also disadvantages to hiring foreign engineers, so it is important to know the advantages and disadvantages in detail in order to prevent any gaps after hiring. In this article, we will explain the reasons why the recruitment of foreign engineers is increasing, the advantages and disadvantages of hiring foreign engineers, and the key points for hiring foreign engineers without regrets.If you are a company considering hiring foreign engineers, please gather information on the topic beyond just the advantages and disadvantages. The G Talent Blog, run by “G Talent”, a job-placement service for foreign engineers, contains a variety of information, including introductions to companies that have hired foreign engineers and tips on hiring foreign engineers. You can also find out what companies really think, so please refer to this article together with the G Talent Blog.Why foreign engineers are attracting attention from companiesIn recent years, the following two reasons have been cited for the growing interest in hiring foreign engineers by many companies.Shortage of Japanese engineersTo smoothly develop global businessShortage of Japanese engineersIn Japan, there is a significant shortage of IT engineers. As there is a huge shortage of talented Japanese engineers, companies are making up for this shortfall by hiring talented people from overseas.To give a well-known example, many of the engineers working at Rakuten and Mercari are foreign nationals. In 2018, 90% of Mercari's new graduate engineers were foreign nationals, and at Rakuten, the company set English as the official language in 2012, and around 80% of the development staff hired in 2014 were foreign nationals.Reference: メルカリの新卒エンジニア9割が外国人、インドの次はどの国から採る？／DIAMOND onlineIn order to smoothly develop global businessthe presence of foreign talent is essential. If you can build a global team with foreign engineers, you can quickly catch up with the latest overseas technology and IT trends. You can also aim to expand overseas with foreign workers, and build and develop services for overseas customers, allowing you to smoothly carry out global business.Reference: 人材不足を解消！外国人エンジニアの採用方法と採用のメリット・デメリット／採用係長の採用アカデミーAdvantages for companies hiring foreign engineersFor companies, there are three advantages to hiring foreign engineers.Securing excellent engineers regardless of nationalityDevelopment and construction of a global development environmentExpectation of internal revitalization through interactionSecuring excellent engineers regardless of nationalityBy expanding your recruitment targets to include not only Japan but also the rest of the world, you can increase the probability of hiring talented people. One of the major advantages is that you can secure talented people more efficiently than by looking for talented people in Japan, as the number of Japanese engineers is insufficient.Reference: 外国人エンジニアを採用するメリットとデメリットーおすすめの採用手法も／xseeds HubDevelopment and construction of a global development environmentIf you hire foreign engineers, it will be easier to develop and build the business you are developing in-house for overseas. This is because foreign engineers may bring in the latest overseas technology and trends, as well as ideas that Japanese people would never think of, into the company.In the future, when you start global business by turning the services you have developed for the domestic market into services for overseas, foreign human resources will also play an active role.Reference: 海外エンジニア採用｜メリットとデメリット、採用方法をくわしく解説／GALKExpectation of internal revitalization through interactionWorking with engineers from different cultures and with different values will add a new stimulus to your team. Hearing about their experiences of working and living outside Japan will also turn on the curiosity switch in your team.Through interaction with foreign engineers, you can expect to revitalize not only the same engineering team, but the entire company. It may also provide an opportunity to draw out the motivation and ideas of your employees.Reference: 外国人エンジニア採用~メリットから定着まで完全解説～／connect jobDisadvantages and points for companies hiring foreign engineersThere are various advantages to hiring foreign engineers, but there are also disadvantages, so if you are considering hiring foreign talent, it is important to understand them. The following are three points to consider when hiring foreign engineers.Possibility of not matching Japanese cultureCommunication costsWork visa acquisition procedures are requiredPossibility of not matching Japanese cultureOne of the major disadvantages of hiring foreign engineers is cultural differences. Even if you manage to hire a talented foreign engineer, if they don't match Japanese culture and communication doesn't go smoothly, work may not progress and become inefficient.Furthermore, it is common for people to change jobs multiple times in order to advance their careers outside of Japan, so when hiring people from overseas to work for a Japanese company, you also need to make sure they understand the differences in the culture of changing jobs and working.In the case of foreign engineers, you also need to understand the job-hopping cycle, where they may change jobs to another company if they don't have an attractive work environment or the opportunity to improve their skills.Reference: 外国人技術者とは？取り入れるメリット・デメリットや採用のコツまで徹底解説！／RISE for BusinessCommunication costsIf the foreign engineer does not understand Japanese, you will need to secure a person to act as an intermediary between the foreign engineer and the Japanese engineers, and there will be costs involved in having the foreign engineer learn Japanese.In some cases, it is necessary to deal with not only language but also cross-cultural understanding, and one of the disadvantages of hiring foreign engineers is that it is more expensive than hiring Japanese engineers.Reference: 外国人エンジニア採用時の注意点とは？海外のメンバーを管理できる最新ツールを紹介／VoicePingWork visa acquisition procedures are requiredIn order for a foreigner to work in Japan, they must obtain a work visa. In order to obtain a visa that allows them to work in Japan as an engineer, they must meet the requirements stipulated in the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act (Immigration Control Act), and they must also go through the application process, including preparing all the necessary documents and having them checked. There are also other types of visa, such as the “Engineer” visa, in addition to the Specified Skills 1 and 2 visas.Even after the visa has been successfully issued, there is a set period of time during which you can work with the visa, so you will need to take the necessary steps to ensure that it does not expire. One of the disadvantages of hiring foreign engineers is that you will have to go through the hassle of obtaining a work visa and the cost of consulting with a lawyer or administrative scrivener.Reference: 【永久保存版】特定技能とエンジニアの違い～ベトナム人の受入れや直接雇用する前に～／株式会社Joh AbroadKey points for hiring foreign engineers without regretsIf you are hiring foreign engineers, you want to be able to smoothly proceed with the hiring process without regrets, after understanding the advantages and disadvantages. From here, we will introduce three key points for successfully hiring foreign engineers.Understand the wages for work on a global scale, not just in JapanHire people who can act as a bridge between foreign and Japanese engineersEnsure that the company does not get caught up in Japanese working cultureUnderstand the wages for work on a global scale, not just in JapanOne of the reasons why there is a shortage of engineers in Japan is that the wages for engineers in Japan are set lower than in other countries. In particular, there is a gap of around double the amount compared to the US and Europe, so from the perspective of foreign engineers, working for a Japanese company may seem like a disadvantage.When hiring foreign engineers, it is important to understand global standards for wages so that you can pay them a salary that is commensurate with the work they do and the skills they have. If you can pay a global standard salary, you will be able to secure talented people and they will be more likely to stay with you for a long time.Reference:【外国人向け】日本で働くエンジニアの給料事情と高収入を得るための方法[グローバルエンジニア2]／FellowshipHire people who can act as a bridge between foreign and Japanese engineersThere are still many companies that are not proactive about hiring foreign engineers who cannot speak Japanese. However, this means that they will never be able to hire excellent foreign talent. If you are worried about the language barrier, then why not also recruit a bridge person who can communicate in English?A bridge worker is someone who acts as a go-between between foreign and Japanese workers. They not only bridge the language gap, but also help to bridge the gap between Japanese working culture and communication methods.Reference: ブリッジ人材の役割と必要性｜海外進出における課題と人材採用のコツ／Talent Clip TimesEnsure that the company does not get caught up in Japanese working cultureIn the IT industry and engineering work environments, remote working arrangements that do not require employees to come into the office and parallel careers that involve working for multiple companies are sometimes accepted. If you are caught up in Japan's traditional work culture and are slow to develop remote working arrangements and flexible working styles, you may be abandoned by talented people.In order to attract talented foreign engineers, it is important to expand flexible working styles.Reference: 外国人エンジニアを採用するメリットとデメリット【需要と日本語】／グローバル採用ナビHow to hire foreign engineersThere are both advantages and disadvantages to hiring foreign engineers, but there are probably many people who want to hire foreign engineers in order to secure talented engineers. The following four methods can be used to specifically hire foreign engineers.Recruit on your company's websiteApproach foreign engineers through their SNSConsult with an agency specializing in foreign engineersUtilize a job site specializing in foreign engineersRecruit on your company's websiteBy preparing your own recruitment website, you can recruit foreign talent from your recruitment page. However, this method is only effective for companies that are well known overseas. If your company is not well known, there is a good chance that your recruitment page will not even be seen in the first place.If you are conducting recruitment activities via your company's recruitment page, you should also be aware that there will be communication costs involved, such as the need to provide information in English and to respond to recruitment inquiries in English. In order to secure talented foreign engineers, it is also important to prepare attractive employment conditions for foreign engineers.Reference: 【外国人採用】応募者が集まらないときに見直したい自社求人サイト／YOLO WORKApproach foreign engineers through their SNSSince the culture of changing jobs is more developed in foreign countries than in Japan, many engineers have well-developed profile pages on LinkedIn, a social networking site for job-seekers. Using LinkedIn, it is possible to find engineers who match the image of the person your company is looking for and to approach them directly.However, even with this method, you should be aware that there are costs involved, such as preparing human resources who can communicate with foreigners at your company and arranging work visas.Reference: LINKEDINで外国人エンジニアを採用するには？／ONETECHConsult with an agency specializing in foreign engineersBy consulting with an agency that specializes in recruiting foreign engineers, it is possible to efficiently recruit foreign engineers who are a good fit for your company. Most recruitment agencies have databases of foreign engineers who are interested in working in Japan, as well as know-how on obtaining work visas, so companies that have not previously recruited foreign workers can solve their worries and problems by consulting with them.However, when using an agency, there is a cost to pay the agency when a candidate is hired. Consider using a recruitment agency in light of your recruitment budget.Reference: 採用手法として転職サイトを使う際のメリット・デメリットとは／株式会社アールナインUtilize a job site specializing in foreign engineersIf you have a small budget for recruitment, we recommend using a job site that specializes in foreign engineers. It is a low-cost alternative to using a recruitment agency, and has the advantage of allowing you to reach a large number of foreign engineers.“GitTap” is a job site specializing in foreign engineers. As many foreign engineers who want to work in a global environment are registered, companies considering hiring foreign engineers for the first time should definitely consider registering.If you are looking for foreign engineers with specialized skills, try G TalentIf you are thinking about hiring foreign engineers, please use “G Talent”, a job-placement agency specializing in foreign IT personnel. “G Talent” focuses on IT engineers and bilingual foreign IT engineers who can hit the ground running, so you can acquire excellent foreign engineers efficiently. They also provide support for work visas and communication, so even companies that are hiring foreign engineers for the first time can do so with peace of mind.Let's aim for business expansion by understanding the advantages and disadvantages of hiring foreign engineers!In this article, we have introduced the advantages and disadvantages you should be aware of when hiring foreign engineers. There are advantages to hiring foreign engineers, such as being able to secure excellent human resources from all over the world regardless of nationality, and becoming a bridge for global business development. However, there are also disadvantages, such as having to be careful about differences with Japanese culture and communication costs, so you need to be careful. Make sure you keep in mind the points we have introduced here when hiring foreign engineers, and carry out your recruitment activities without regrets.If you are considering hiring foreign engineers, please use the job-placement agency 'G Talent', which specializes in foreign IT engineers. G Talent, which supports the job-hunting and career-change activities of foreign IT engineers who want to work in Japan, has bilingual consultants with a wealth of IT knowledge who provide strong support for matching companies and engineers.