Thriving Through Career Change: My Experience as a Foreign Professional in Japan
Vaishnavee Mugunthan Updated in February 2026

Changing jobs is always a little scary — even more so when you are living and working in a country far from home. I want to share my personal journey of navigating a career transition in Japan, the challenges I faced, and the lessons I learned along the way.

Why I Decided to Change Jobs

After a year in my first role in Japan, I realized I wanted more than just stability. I wanted new challenges, a chance to grow, and opportunities that aligned with my long-term career goals. My first job gave me great experience, but I felt it was time to step out of my comfort zone and explore something different.

I still remember the moment I made my decision: I was walking home after a long day at work, reflecting on my career path, and thinking, “Am I truly learning and growing here?” That question pushed me to start exploring new possibilities.

The Challenges Along the Way

Changing jobs in Japan isn’t always straightforward — and as a foreign professional, there are a few extra hurdles:

▶Language and Cultural Nuances: Even though I was comfortable with Japanese, understanding subtle interview etiquette and workplace culture took effort. I remember sweating before my first Japanese interview, unsure if my expressions or gestures were polite enough.
▶The Job Market: In Japan, frequent job-hopping can sometimes be viewed negatively, so I needed to find companies that appreciated diverse experiences.
▶Visa and Paperwork: Switching employers meant making sure my work visa was handled correctly, which required careful attention to detail. I spent hours double-checking documents to avoid any mistakes — a stressful but important part of the process.

How I Navigated the Transition

Here are some strategies that helped me make the change successfully:

▶Networking Is Everything: Attending events, connecting with colleagues, and reaching out online opened doors to opportunities that weren’t publicly advertised. I still recall a casual coffee chat with a fellow mentor that ended up leading to my next job opportunity.
▶Tailoring My Resume: I focused on experiences and skills that matched Japanese expectations while showcasing my unique international perspective. Highlighting projects where I bridged cultural or technical gaps really caught the recruiters’ attention.
▶Interview Preparation: I practiced common questions, learned about each company’s culture, and prepared thoughtful questions to ask. Before my first interview, I practiced aloud in front of a mirror — it helped calm my nerves and made me feel more confident.
▶Seeking Mentorship: Talking to mentors — including those I met through the Sakura Science Program — gave me guidance and confidence when making decisions. Their advice on navigating Japanese work culture was invaluable.

Key Lessons Learned

▶Patience Pays Off: Finding the right fit takes time. It’s important to stay persistent but flexible.
▶Your Background Is a Strength: Being a foreign professional can give you a unique edge; diverse perspectives are increasingly valued in Japan.
▶Keep Learning: Every role offers lessons. Embrace change as an opportunity to grow, both professionally and personally. I realized that even small adjustments, like learning how to conduct meetings more smoothly in Japanese, made a big difference.

Advice for Others Considering a Career Change

If you’re a foreign professional in Japan thinking about switching jobs:

• Research your target companies and industries thoroughly.
• Build your network — online platforms and in-person events both help.
• Don’t hesitate to ask for guidance from mentors or peers.
• Stay positive and open-minded — with preparation and patience, the right opportunity will come.

Final Thoughts

Changing jobs in Japan can feel intimidating, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. With the right mindset, preparation, and support, you can navigate the transition successfully and thrive in your new role. I hope my experience inspires others to pursue their career aspirations confidently — and remember, taking the leap can open doors you never imagined.