Looking for a job in Japan but confused by the resume system? You’re not alone — many non-Japanese professionals find the job application process in Japan unfamiliar, especially when it comes to the “Shokumukeirekisho” (職務経歴書), or Japanese-style resume.
The good news? You don’t need to speak or write Japanese fluently to create a strong resume that works. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — and show you how to write a Japanese resume using your English CV and our original AI-powered Resume Conversion Kit.
What Is a Shokumukeirekisho (職務経歴書)?
How It’s Different from a Western Resume
A Shokumukeirekisho is a detailed career history document, separate from the Rirekisho (basic resume). Unlike Western resumes, which tend to be concise and bullet-pointed, the Shokumukeirekisho usually includes:
- A professional summary
- Chronological job history with detailed responsibilities
- Skills and certifications
- Sometimes a brief motivation or self-introduction
Why Japanese Companies Still Expect It
While many companies in Japan are becoming more global, most still expect a Shokumukeirekisho because:
- It’s the standard format for evaluating career history
- It shows your ability to follow Japanese business norms
- It helps HR and hiring managers assess your fit and readiness
Key Sections of a Japanese Resume
Basic Info (職務要約, 志望動機, etc.)
- “職務要約” (Work Summary): 3–5 lines about your career background
- “志望動機” (Motivation): Why you want to work in that role or company (optional)
Work Experience – How to Structure It
- List your jobs in reverse chronological order
- Include job title, company, duration, responsibilities
- Keep the tone professional and objective
Skills and Qualifications – What Matters Most
- Highlight what’s relevant to the role
- IT skills, language proficiency (with test scores like JLPT), licenses, etc.
Challenges for Non-Japanese Speakers
Language Barriers
Even if you speak conversational Japanese, writing in formal business style can be tough. Mistakes in tone or grammar can leave a bad impression.
Format and Cultural Expectations
- Many templates are confusing or poorly translated
- Expectations about tone and structure are very specific in Japan
Can You Write a Japanese Resume Without Knowing Japanese?
Yes — With the Help of AI Tools
Yes — With the Help of AI Tools
Fortunately, yes. You can now create a high-quality Japanese resume using your English CV and our well-designed, custom-built AI-powered Resume Conversion Kit.
👉 Also read: How to create a Japanese resume from your English CV
Why Templates + AI Work Surprisingly Well
By combining a professional prompt with a Word template, you can:
- Convert your English career history into Japanese
- Keep the format consistent
- Avoid common writing mistakes
This method has already helped job seekers apply to global companies in Tokyo, Osaka, and beyond.
Recommended Method for Writing a Japanese Resume
Use a Bilingual Prompt and Template
We’ve created a downloadable package that includes:
- A Word-format Shokumukeirekisho template
- A bilingual AI prompt for ChatGPT
- English instructions for easy use
Customize Based on Your English CV
Just paste your English CV under the prompt in ChatGPT, and the AI will generate your Japanese resume content. Then, copy the result into the Word template.
Try the Resume Conversion Kit
Want to skip the formatting and start now? 👉 Click here to get the Resume Conversion Kit
Final Tips for a Successful Application
Keep It Clear, Professional, and Honest
Japanese resumes value clarity and logic. Avoid exaggeration or overly casual phrasing.
Consider Including a Rirekisho
For some employers, especially traditional ones, attaching a basic Rirekisho may still be required. You can find templates online or ask the recruiter.
Don’t Let Language Be a Barrier
You don’t need to be fluent in Japanese to apply for jobs in Japan. With the right tools, a bit of preparation, and a smart method, writing a Japanese-style resume can be faster and easier than you think.
📘 Want to get started today? Check out our bilingual Resume Conversion Kit — created and refined by a recruiter with over 10 years of experience in global hiring.
