AboutDonald Nordeng Expertise I run a site dedicated to providing information on doing business in Japan. We provide consulting services for those who are exporting to Japan or who want to open an office in Japan.
Experience I have lived in Japan for 20 years, and have been in business for 19 years. I am president of Ecocert-QAI Japan Ltd., a Japanese company that is wholly owned by foreign interests. I also run a consulting business called JapanExperts. We provide management training and consulting services.
Expert: Donald Nordeng Date: 4/23/2008 Subject: Questions about Japan
Question Hello Mr. Nordeng,
I am currently a high school student in my junior year and recently became interested in Japanese business. In fact, I'm planning to move to Tokyo in the future in order to do business there. Unfortunately, I have no clue on business careers and can't seem to find any that fit me. Can you recommend any careers that are prominent and necessary in Japan?
Another question, I'm thinking about International Business, but I only want to work in Japan. If I do decide to do international business, does that mean my employer will tell me to go to multiple locations worldwide or may I pick the country in which I settle in?
Answer Hi Kevin,
Japan is a great place to live, and there are many jobs available to foreigners. One thing to think about is what you like doing. I have put a couple of job sites here so you can look and see what qualifications you need.
If you like business and math I would suggest getting a degree in finance or go on and get an MBA. These would allow you to work anywhere in the world. Also I would study Japanese and or maybe Chinese.
I would also look at a site like http://startupnation.com/ which is a site about starting businesses. There is no reason to wait if you have a good idea. There are lots of things you can start in high school.
The key to success is education. If you have education and passion about what you like, people will seek you out. Be careful not to eliminate choices before trying them. If you get an opportunity take it, give it a year and if you hate it quit, if you like it well maybe you just found your career.
Good luck, and if you want to ask more questions you can find me here.
