Language Requirements for Project Managers in Japan [SHIFT]

If you’re aiming to become a Project Manager at SHIFT, your Japanese language skills will be one of the most critical factors for your success.

This role is client-facing, meaning you’ll need to navigate complex discussions, manage expectations, and present ideas in fluent Japanese.

Let’s explore exactly what you’ll need to thrive in this position and how you can prepare.

Why Your Japanese Proficiency Matters

As a Project Manager at SHIFT, you’ll serve as the bridge between your company and its clients.

Your ability to communicate effectively in Japanese will be essential for you to:

• Lead discussions during client meetings with confidence and professionalism.
• Explain project plans, technical concepts, and timelines in ways your clients can easily understand.
• Handle unexpected client questions or concerns without hesitation.
• Build long-term relationships that foster trust and collaboration.

You’ll Need JLPT N1

SHIFT requires you to have N1-level proficiency on the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) for this role.

N1 is the highest level of the test, and it demonstrates that you can use and understand Japanese fluently in almost any professional or social context.

How You’ll Use Japanese and English at SHIFT

Where You’ll Use Japanese:

• Client Meetings: Client-facing communication is conducted in Japanese. You’ll need to use business-level Japanese (敬語 or keigo) to maintain professionalism and respect.
• Internal Communication: While technical terms may often be in English, most meetings, emails, and reports you’ll handle are in Japanese.
• Documentation: You’ll be expected to write project plans, meeting summaries, and reports in Japanese.

Challenges You May Face Without Strong Japanese

Even if you’re highly skilled as a Project Manager, you may struggle if your Japanese isn’t strong enough for this role.

Here are some common challenges you might encounter:

1. Explaining Your Past Experience: If you can’t clearly explain your achievements or responsibilities in Japanese, it will be difficult for you to pass the interview process.
2. Understanding Client Needs: Without fluent comprehension, you risk misunderstanding subtle client expectations, which could lead to misaligned projects.
3. Using Keigo: As a client-facing professional, you’ll need to use respectful Japanese. Clients expect polished and professional communication, and mistakes in keigo could harm your relationships.

What You Can Expect During the Interview Process

The hiring process at SHIFT is rigorous, and your Japanese skills will be evaluated every step of the way. Here’s what you should expect:

1. Initial Screening(No JLPT N2): If you do not have N2 or N1, you will need to have a phone interview. You’ll introduce yourself and explain your career motivations in Japanese. You’ll also discuss why you’re interested in SHIFT and share examples of how you’ve handled client-facing situations in the past.
2. Main Interview: You’ll have a 1-hour interview conducted entirely in Japanese, where you’ll discuss your technical expertise, leadership experience, and ability to manage projects. You’ll need to explain your past projects in detail, including the challenges you faced, how you resolved them, and what results you achieved.
3. Language Assessment: You’ll be evaluated on your fluency, comprehension, and ability to use keigo appropriately. While small mistakes are forgivable, being unable to articulate your ideas clearly or misunderstanding key questions could cost you the role.

Tips to Succeed as a Client-Facing Project Manager

To excel in this role, you’ll need to combine technical expertise with exceptional communication skills.

Here’s how you can prepare:

1. Master Keigo: You should familiarize yourself with common keigo phrases and structures for business settings. Practice apologizing, making requests, and explaining decisions politely.
2. Highlight Your Achievements Clearly: When discussing your past experience, start with the results, e.g., “I implemented a new process that reduced delivery times by 20%.” Then explain the problem, your approach, and the specific steps you took to achieve those results.
3. Understand Japanese Business Culture: You’ll need to navigate cultural nuances, like showing humility and avoiding overly assertive language. Clients value collaboration over competition.
4. Prepare for Follow-Up Questions: During your interview, expect detailed follow-ups. If you say you managed a team, be ready to explain how you motivated team members or handled underperformance.

How You Can Prepare for N1 Proficiency

If you haven’t yet reached N1, you’ll need to dedicate time and effort to reach the required level. Here’s how you can prepare:

1. Use Official JLPT Resources: Start with the official JLPT website (JLPT website) for study guides and past exams.
2. Focus on Business Japanese: Books like “Nihongo Keigo Training” or “Shigoto no Nihongo” can help you improve your professional communication skills.
3. Practice with Native Speakers: Join language exchange groups or work with a tutor to improve your real-world speaking and listening skills.
4. Simulate Client Conversations: Practice explaining complex topics or handling client concerns in Japanese. Use role-playing exercises to build confidence.
5. Take Mock Tests: Regularly practice with N1-level mock exams under timed conditions. This will help you become familiar with the format and build your test-taking stamina.

Final Thoughts

As a Project Manager at SHIFT, your Japanese skills will set you apart.

If you’re fluent at N1 level, comfortable with keigo, and ready to navigate both professional and cultural expectations, you’ll be well-positioned to succeed in this client-facing role.

Take the time to refine your skills and prepare thoroughly—you’ve got what it takes to excel.

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