JET career fairs bring together employers who have chosen to recruit JET participants. Recruiters may speak with dozens of candidates in one day, so preparation matters.
About this seminar
Nisshin Global Corporation presented this seminar in collaboration with National AJET.
Brett Huestis wrote the source recap for Nisshin Global Corporation. This AJET version condenses the main points for JET participants. Read the original recap.
Decide what success looks like
An offer on the spot is unlikely. A useful career fair conversation should help you accomplish three things:
- Make a clear impression. A recruiter may meet 10 to 50 or more candidates. Give them one specific reason to remember you.
- Leave with a next step. Aim for a follow-up meeting or interview within the next few weeks.
- Check the fit. Pay attention to the team, communication style, role, and workplace culture. You are evaluating the company too.
Research your priority companies
Choose three to five companies to research before the fair. Learn what they sell, how they make money, why they are hiring, and where international work fits into their plans. Look at their mission, recent projects, overseas clients, and the kind of person who succeeds there.
This research saves time at the booth. Instead of asking for a basic company introduction, you can discuss how your experience could help.
Explain what your JET experience offers
Employers at these fairs often need people who can work with overseas clients, support international sales or marketing, and help Japanese teams communicate across cultures. Connect your JET experience to those needs.
- English ability and conversational Japanese can help you act as a bridge between teams and markets.
- Living and working in Japan shows adaptability, patience, and a real commitment to staying here.
- Teaching, presentations, and community work provide evidence of communication and relationship-building skills.
- Your degree, previous work, hobbies, digital skills, and international network may solve needs that are specific to the company.
Prepare your materials and your pitch
- Dress formally and carry your documents in a folder.
- Bring several copies of your resume, a notepad and pen, and business cards if you have them.
- Briefly explain qualifications that may be unfamiliar in Japan.
- Tailor your resume and motivation statement for the companies you care about most.
For a short introduction, use a simple order: who you are now, proof of one or two strengths, and the kind of work you want next. Connect that final point to the employer’s needs.
Follow up within two days
Send a short email within 24 to 48 hours. Thank the recruiter, mention something specific from your conversation, restate the role you want, and explain how you could contribute. Attach your resume and ask for a brief follow-up meeting.
The fair is only the first conversation. Make the next one easy to schedule.
Source: Read Brett Huestis’s original recap on Nisshin Global.
