❌ Common NG Motivation Statements (International Students)
Many students say:
“Japan has advanced technology and I want to learn more.”
“I love Japanese culture and want to work in Japan.”
“Your company is global and foreign employees can succeed.”
They sound good — but interviewers often think:
😐 “So… what will you do for our company?”
😐 “You could say that anywhere.”
🤔 Why This Doesn`t Work in Japan
Because:
It`s about you, not the company
It`s too general and reusable
In Japan, companies care more about:
👉 “Why this company?”
👉 “How will you contribute after joining?”
📖 Real Story
A government-sponsored master’s student (engineering):
Great Japanese, strong research background.
Still failed many final interviews.
HR feedback:
“We couldn’t clearly imagine how he would work with us after joining.”
Good person.
But not a clear future colleague.
✅ A Motivation Structure That Works
Use this 3-step formula:
1️⃣ One clear company feature
2️⃣ Connect it to your own experience
3️⃣ Explain what you want to do after joining
✍️ Improved Example
“I am attracted to your company’s focus on XX.
Through my experience as an international student doing YY,
I believe I can contribute to ZZ in your team in the future.”
💡 Japan wants clarity, not passion alone.
🎁 Final Message
In Japan, a motivation statement is not a love letter.
It`s a proposal for working together.
Remember that — it changes everything.
