Adapting to the Future: Remote Work Culture in Japan

Working from home has become a global trend, and Japan is no exception. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work in Japan, and a few companies and employees have embraced this new way of working.

I will explore the customs and practices associated with working from home in Japan, drawing insights from my personal experience as an employee of a consulting company.

WORK-LIFE BALANCE. In Japan, overtime work is common and often expected. When working from home, it's crucial to manage your time effectively to avoid overworking yourself. While remote work offers flexibility, many Japanese employees still adhere to traditional working hours, even when working from home. This means that they often start and finish work at the same times as they would in the office, maintaining a clear boundary between work and personal life.

My experience: My company grants me the flexibility to work for seven hours daily, between 8 AM and 10 PM, depending on the project at hand. This arrangement provides me the freedom to tailor my working hours to align with my daily routine.

PUNTUALITY. Japanese culture values punctuality. When working from home, it's important to log in and start work at the designated time. Video meetings, in particular, require punctuality. Being late for a virtual meeting can be seen as disrespectful.

My experience: My company utilizes time-tracking software that requires me to log in and out for work using my company laptop. I can conveniently access it through a mobile phone application, enabling me to use it when commuting or going on business trips.

COMMUNICATION. Effective communication is crucial in Japanese business culture. When working remotely, clear and frequent communication with colleagues and superiors is expected. Chat message is a common mode of communication, but video conferences are also used for more immediate interactions.

My experience: I use our company-restricted platform and communication tools to internally collaborate with my colleagues. Emails are commonly used for external communication, and it's interesting to note that not only LinkedIn but also messenger platforms are surprisingly utilized for networking in business situations.

TECHNOLOGY. Japanese companies provide employees with the necessary technology and tools to work from home efficiently. This includes laptops, secure VPN connections, and access to company servers. Employees are expected to handle company equipment with care.

My experience: Maintaining data security and confidentiality is a top priority for my company. So I am expected to follow the strict security protocols to protect company information.

DRESS CODE. While remote work allows for a more relaxed dress code, it's still essential to maintain a professional appearance during virtual meetings. Business casual attire is typically suitable.

My experience: As for my personal choice, I opt for a blazer when attending meetings, although the majority of my colleagues typically wear just shirts or blouses. In my company, there are no strict dress code rules.

In essence, adapting to the customs and practices of remote work in Japan is a valuable opportunity to blend modern flexibility with the timeless values of Japanese business culture. Finding harmony between these elements ensures that remote work not only survives but thrives in the Land of the Rising Sun.