At the Japan offices of foreign companies, English ability is often needed for dealing with headquarters. But the situations and level of English needed differ by position, so how it is evaluated needs to be sorted out.
- English ability is said to be needed, but no specific level has been set
- A candidate's test score is high, but it is unclear whether they can use English in actual work
- Interviewers evaluate English ability inconsistently
- Too much weight on English ability is causing the company to miss candidates who meet other requirements
This article explains how to evaluate candidates' English ability when hiring at a foreign company.
Why English Ability Is Hard to Evaluate
English ability covers many situations, from reading and writing email to discussion in meetings, presentations, and negotiation. A test score alone cannot show how well someone can actually use English in real work.
On the other hand, overemphasizing English ability can knock out candidates with expertise and experience at the selection stage. It is important to judge the level needed for each position.
How to Run the Evaluation
Sort out the English situations needed for each position and choose a way to assess them that fits.
| Step | What It Involves |
|---|---|
| Define the situations needed | List the actual situations, such as how often they interact with headquarters, the language of meetings, and the amount of writing |
| Set the level required | Decide, for each position, which of reading, writing, speaking, and listening are needed and to what degree |
| Choose how to assess | Combine methods that fit the purpose, such as conversation in English during interviews, tasks close to real work, and test scores |
| Share evaluation criteria | Align the evaluation points and level guidelines among interviewers |
Balance English Ability With Other Requirements
English ability can sometimes be expected to improve after joining. Separate the level that is required from the level that is preferred, and decide with a view to balance with other requirements.
Also check whether headquarters' expectations and the level the Japan office actually needs are out of step. If they are, it is advisable to align with headquarters before hiring.
Summary
- The situations and level of English needed differ by position
- Work through defining situations, setting the level, choosing how to assess, and sharing criteria
- Assess in a form close to real work, not only by test scores
- Balance English ability with other requirements and check consistency with headquarters' expectations
Contact
JBN supports foreign companies in hiring in Japan, from defining requirements through to searching for and evaluating candidates.
To discuss defining English ability as a hiring requirement, please contact us.