Communicating only pay and terms in an offer may not be enough to push a candidate in Japan toward deciding to join. It is important to share information that lets them picture life after joining, beyond compensation.
- Terms were presented, but responses are often put on hold
- The offer is just a translation of headquarters' template
- The role after joining and how evaluation works have not been explained well
- There is no opportunity to hear the candidate's concerns and questions
This article explains what to explain beyond pay in an offer that resonates with candidates in Japan.
Why Pay Alone Does Not Lead to a Decision
Candidates decide whether to join by weighing the role after joining, the atmosphere of the manager and team, opportunities to grow, and the company's outlook, in addition to pay. When pay is comparable, these factors decide it.
At foreign companies, some candidates hesitate to join out of uncertainty about the outlook for the business in Japan and how they will work with headquarters. Explanation that reduces this uncertainty becomes part of the offer.
What to Explain in the Offer
Explaining the following items carefully when making the offer deepens the candidate's understanding.
| Item | What to Explain |
|---|---|
| Role and expectations after joining | The work they will handle, goals for the first six to twelve months, and discretion in decisions |
| Evaluation and career | When and how evaluation is done, the approach to raises and promotions, and opportunities to grow |
| Working style | Working hours, remote work, leave, and how often they will interact with headquarters |
| Team and manager | The structure of the team they will join and an introduction to the manager and colleagues |
| Company situation and outlook | The position of the Japan business, future plans, and support from headquarters |
Value the Dialogue After the Offer
An offer is not finished once it is delivered in writing. Provide opportunities for the candidate to ask questions and raise concerns, and consider a meeting with the manager and future teammates.
Set the response deadline with time for the candidate to consult family or a current employer. If a response is late, check in on the situation and provide additional information as needed.
Summary
- Candidates weigh role, growth opportunities, team, and company outlook in addition to pay
- Explain the role and expectations, evaluation and career, working style, team, and company situation
- Keep providing opportunities for questions and meetings after the offer
- Allow room in the response deadline and provide additional information as needed
Contact
JBN supports foreign companies in hiring in Japan, from designing offers through to follow-up until the start date.
To discuss designing your offers, please contact us.