7 job interview red flags in Japan (and what to ask instead)
You've finally landed a job offer in Japan after weeks (or months) of searching. The interview went well, the contract is ready, but something feels off. Maybe it's the way the recruiter dodged a question, or the vague wording in the offer. Whatever it is, a red flag is waving. What are important job interview red flags in Japan? Did you just land a job with a black company?
Understanding Japanese workplace culture is crucial, but it's rarely spelled out. Many expectations — like staying late, following rigid hierarchies or interpreting indirect feedback — go unspoken until you're already on the job. These unwritten rules can lead to stress, burnout and serious dissatisfaction.
The good news? Many warning signs show up early — if you know what to ask and how to spot them. Here's how to recognize red flags before you sign.
If you're looking for a job, check out the opportunities on GaijinPot Jobs.
1. Vague or Dodgy Answers About Work Hours
2. High Turnover or Constant Hiring
3. All Management, No Mentorship
4. No Work-Life Balance Policy
5. Poor or No Communication from the Team
6. Overly Fancy Office vs. Underpaid Staff
7. Overemphasis on 'We're Like a Family'
Research the Company Reputation Online
1. Vague or Dodgy Answers About Work Hours
'We don't track hours — we track passion.'
One of the most infamous aspects of Japanese work culture is the amount of overtime. While the Japanese government has tightened laws around how much overtime companies are allowed to demand, statistics show that the average worker in Japan still puts in 24.3 hours of overtime per month (2022, Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare). Under-reporting means the actual number is likely even higher. At the extreme end, karoshi (death from overwork) is also a sad reality for some.
Japan's 2019 Work Style Reform Law (働き方改革法案, Hatarakikata Kaikaku Hoan) also set legal limits on overtime, capping it at 45 hours per month (with stricter penalties for violations). The system grants at least 10 days of paid leave annually to employees who have been continuously employed for six months and have attended at least 80% of working days during that period. Employers are also required to ensure that at least five days of paid leave are taken per year.
If your recruiter can't clearly state the hours of overtime you'll be expected to work, they may not be following the rules.
What To Ask During The Interview
Ask: 'What's the average overtime here?'
Red flag response: 'We work until the job is done,' or 'It depends on the season.'
Japanese term to listen for:* **Sabisu zangyo* (サービス残業), unpaid overtime
2. High Turnover or Constant Hiring
'He wasn't a team player.'
If a company is constantly advertising jobs online, it could be a sign of high employee turnover. Take a look at job boards like GaijinPot Jobs and keep an eye on how often the company is posting ads. While some companies will advertise regularly when expanding their workforce, others are simply struggling to hold onto staff.
Make sure to ask in your interview how long most employees choose to stay, and pay attention to whether they're able to give a clear answer.
What To Ask During The Interview
Ask: 'How long do team members usually stay?'
Red flag response: 'It varies from person to person.'
Tip: Use review sites like OpenWork (formerly Vorkers) or Glassdoor Japan for clues about employee satisfaction and management style.
3. All Management, No Mentorship
Japanese work culture can prioritise following the leader over developing leadership skills. Promotions are often handed out based on age and length of tenure, not merit, and those below are expected to follow instructions without questioning authority.
However, reputable companies understand the value of nurturing talent. Use your interview to find out if the company has staff development programs in place, and what kind of skills you'll have the opportunity to learn should you accept the job.
What To Ask During The Interview
Ask: 'Does the company have any onboarding or training programs?'
Red flag response: 'We expect you to figure things out.'
4. No Work-Life Balance Policy
One of the most infamous aspects of Japanese work culture is the amount of overtime. While the Japanese government has tightened laws around how much overtime companies are allowed to demand, statistics show that the average worker in Japan still puts in 24.3 hours of overtime per month (2022, Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare). Under-reporting means the actual number is likely even higher. At the extreme end, karoshi (death from overwork) is also a sad reality for some.
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