[English × Career Change] A Step-by-Step Guide for Shifting to Jobs That Use English

“I have some English skills, but I’ve never used them at work.”
“I want to shift to a career where I can use my English more.”

For professionals like you, here is a step-by-step guide to navigating your career change using English as a key strength.

Why Are English-Using Jobs Increasing?

• More companies are expanding globally
• English communication is becoming standard in businesses with international partners
• Companies are now placing more value on “basic comprehension and adaptability” rather than perfect English

Japanese Company or Foreign Company? Which Should You Choose?

■ English-Speaking Roles in Japanese Companies

• Overseas sales, trade administration, customer support, investor relations, etc.
• Internal communication is usually in Japanese; English is used only when necessary

■ Characteristics of Foreign Companies

• Many native English speakers and foreign staff—English is often the working language
• Some roles use English more than Japanese

■ Which Is Right for You?

• Want to gradually improve while working → Japanese companies with some English use
• Want to dive into an English-speaking environment → Foreign companies

Steps for Job Hunting (Step-by-Step)

1. Assess Your English Skills and Career History

• Review your TOEIC/Eiken scores and past work experience (emails, calls, reading)
• Clarify what you can do now and what kind of job you want to pursue

2. Search for Job Listings (Suggested Sites)

• Use keywords like “English required” or “foreign company” on sites like BizReach, doda, Recruit, and JAC Recruitment
• Use LinkedIn to search for “English skills welcome,” “global company,” etc.

3. Prepare Application Documents

• Create an English resume (use available templates)
• Include TOEIC score and English use in previous jobs
• Clearly state in your self-introduction or motivation why you want to work in an English-using role

4. Prepare for Interviews (Including in English)

• Japanese interview: Show your motivation and how you plan to use English at work
• English interview: Prepare simple English answers for your self-introduction, past work experience, and how you’ll contribute

Pros and Cons of Using English at Work

Pros

• Higher salary potential
• Broader career opportunities
• Your English will improve through real-world use

Cons

• Requires ongoing effort to maintain and improve English
• You may feel nervous or overwhelmed at first
• Foreign companies may have performance-based or contract-driven cultures that not everyone is comfortable with

Final Thoughts: Start Small and Take Your First Step Toward a Broader Career

You don’t need perfect English. The desire to “use English” or “work in an English environment” is enough to begin.

Start by assessing where you are now, and think about how to communicate that in your resume and interviews.

A career shift using English is not just about language—it’s about personal growth through work, and it can become a powerful asset in your life.