Diving into Japanese Work Culture
Diving into Japanese Work Culture
Wu Ho's Story
Faculty of Engineering
BEng
Knowing that the world is their oyster, many adventurous students aspire to work abroad after graduating. Among them is Wu Ho, a year 2 Engineering student who took part in the Japan Career Exploration Programme 2020 in order to learn more about work culture in Japan.
As an ardent admirer of Japanese culture, Wu Ho has always held a soft spot for the country. “I appreciate how respect and sincerity are so highly valued there,” he said earnestly. “In every visit to Japan, I can sense how local staff serve from the heart.” Already a seasoned traveller to the country he loves, Wu Ho began to plan for a Japan-bound career.
“Regardless of your profession, you can still hold onto your self-respect and enjoy respect from others.” As a result, Wu Ho participated in the Japan Career Exploration Programme 2020, where he got to observe the daily operation of Japanese firms and experience local office culture first-hand. “The workers I met were all very polite and diligent,” recalled Wu Ho fondly, “and they clearly treasured their work identities.” In his point-of-view, the respect woven into Japan’s cultural fabric builds a warm community atmosphere. “In Japan, regardless of your profession,” Wu Ho explained, “you can still hold onto your self-respect and enjoy respect from others.”
The immersive programme made Wu Ho feel even more welcomed in Japan. Having confirmed his goal of building a career in the country, Wu Ho’s current task is to overcome the hefty language barrier. “I to have to Ganbatte (Japanese word meaning do your best)!” he concluded with a hearty laugh.
Written by:
Gabrielle Tse
Year 4, Faculty of Arts and Faculty of Law
March 2021