Japanese work culture is known for its dedication, discipline, and respect for hierarchy. To understand business practices in Japan, it’s essential to be familiar with the following words and phrases:
1. 仕事 (Shigoto) – Work, job
The act of performing tasks or duties for employment.
2. 働く (Hataraku) – To work
The action of engaging in job-related activities.
3. 社会人 (Shakaijin) – Working adult, member of society
Refers to individuals who are actively employed.
4. 就業時間 (Shūgyō jikan) – Working hours
The hours designated for work.
5. 休日 (Kyūjitsu) – Holiday, day off
A day when employees are not required to work.
6. 給与 (Kyūyo) – Salary, wages
Compensation received for work.
7. 上司 (Jōshi) – Boss, supervisor
The person in a higher position or authority at work.
8. 部下 (Buka) – Subordinate, employee
The person in a lower position or rank at work.
9. 会議 (Kaigi) – Meeting, conference
A formal gathering to discuss business matters.
10. 集中力 (Shūchū-ryoku) – Concentration, focus
The ability to focus on tasks without distraction.
11. チームワーク (Chīmuwāku) – Teamwork
Collaboration and cooperation within a group.
12. 仕事効率 (Shigoto kōritsu) – Work efficiency
The measure of how well tasks are completed in a given time.
13. 転職 (Tenshoku) – Job change, career change
The act of changing one’s job or career path.
14. 昇進 (Shōshin) – Promotion
Advancement to a higher position or rank in a company.
15. 退職 (Taishoku) – Retirement
The act of leaving one’s job or career permanently.
16. インターンシップ (Intānshippu) – Internship
Temporary work experience for students or recent graduates.
17. 正社員 (Seishain) – Regular employee, full-time employee
An employee with a permanent contract and benefits.
18. 契約社員 (Keiyaku shain) – Contract employee
An employee with a fixed-term contract.
19. 派遣社員 (Haken shain) – Temporary worker, dispatched employee
An employee hired through a staffing agency.
20. 転勤 (Tenkin) – Job transfer
The relocation of an employee to another branch or location.
21. 内定 (Naitē) – Job offer, job acceptance
A tentative job offer made to a candidate.
22. 賞与 (Shōyo) – Bonus, year-end bonus
Additional compensation given to employees, usually at the end of the year.
23. 採用試験 (Saiyō shiken) – Job interview, employment examination
The process of evaluating and selecting candidates for employment.
24. 服装規定 (Fukusō kisoku) – Dress code, attire regulations
The guidelines for appropriate clothing at work.
25. 精勤 (Seikin) – Punctuality, regular attendance
The practice of being punctual and maintaining regular attendance at work.
26. 連絡先 (Renrakusaki) – Contact information
Address, phone number, and email used for communication.
27. フレックスタイム (Furekkusu taimu) – Flextime
A system that allows employees to choose their working hours within certain limits.
28. 有給休暇 (Yūkyū kyūka) – Paid vacation, paid leave
Time off from work for which employees receive compensation.
29. 帰社時間 (Kisha jikan) – Leaving work time
The time when employees finish work and leave the office.
30. 残業 (Zangyō) – Overtime work
Extra hours worked beyond regular working hours.
Understanding these words and concepts will help you navigate the unique work culture in Japan and appreciate the values and practices that shape the country’s business environment. Japanese work culture emphasizes commitment, teamwork, and respect, contributing to the efficiency and success of many organizations in the country.
