Zen! Q&A: Is it okay to work at ZenGroup if I only speak Japanese? The reality of working in a team of 30 nationalities

Our new series, “Zen! Q&A”, aims to answer the common questions ZenGroup’s HR team receives during interviews and job fairs. Usually, candidates’ questions start with “What is ____ actually like?”: “What is it actually like?”

To start this series, we’re tackling the topic everyone is most curious about; English. To any readers interested in working in an environment with over 30 nationalities, but are anxious about applying and asking yourself “Can I work at ZenGroup if I can’t speak English?” we’re sharing our real thoughts from our employees!

QUESTION:

Can I work at ZenGroup if I only speak Japanese?

ANSWER:

To put it simply, it’s absolutely no problem!

Over the past decade, ZenGroup has evolved into a diverse team of over 400 members representing more than 30 nationalities.It’s true that different languages can be heard around the office and while some teams do require English proficiency, there are many members who thrive in our working environment using only Japanese.

Language skills are always great to have, but what ZenGroup values above all else is respect for diversity and cultural differences and making an effort to understand one another.

Our mission, “Transcending Borders,” means overcoming not just international Ecommerce related systems, but the walls of the heart as well. If you resonate with our beliefs and are ready to take on the challenge with us, your current language level doesn’t matter.

Our Support Systems to Turn Language Anxiety into Growth

For those who think, “I can’t speak it now, but I want to try someday,” we have a support system in place.

Internal Language Lessons from Professionals.

We invite native instructors from outside the company, and lessons are available at the office after work. Since classes are divided by level—from beginner to advanced—you can improve at your own pace.

“Language Exchange Buddy System.”

This is a system where members casually teach each other languages, including Japanese, English, and beyond. The best part is being able to immediately practice the phrases you’ve learned during lunch or daily life!

Real Voices: How Members Overcome Language Barriers

No barriers felt with translation tools and teammate support

I joined the company with zero English skills, but I can handle my work smoothly as English is not needed . On the rare occasions I need to communicate with international members for work purposes, I use translation tools or ask teammates fluent in English for help. I have been able to improve my English slowly just by being exposed to English company announcements, so it is a great learning opportunity. I’m grateful to work in an environment where everyone warmly approaches me and supports my effort to communicate.

Mainly working in Japanese

A.A — Accounting Department

Expanding communication day by day from the beginner English

When first joining ZenGroup I thought, ”since I’m in such a multi-cultural environment, I want to learn”, so I use the language lessons and the buddy system. I haven’t used English since my student days, so I was nervous at first, but since my classmates are fellow employees at the same level, I’m having fun learning. Lately, going to lunch with my buddy and talking about hobbies in my broken English has been a great refresher. You don’t need perfect grammar; if you speak with a smile, you can become friends. I don’t think I would have taken on this challenge if I hadn’t joined ZenGroup.

Challenging English learning

B.T — Domestic Sales Team

The Japanese Challenge from an international member’s perspective

Through the buddy system, I support Japanese members who want to learn Japanese. Having once studied Japanese as an international student myself, I understand how hard it is to learn a new language. At ZenGroup, there is a culture of listening and respecting one another.If your words are incomplete, we welcome those who try their best to communicate. Why not join us in ‘Transcending Borders’ and take on the challenge of bringing Japan’s charm to the world?

International member

E.A — HR department

Surprised by the power of a culture that elevates one another

I’ve always liked going abroad and built my career in environments where I could use English, such as at foreign-affiliated companies. I’ve experienced several global workplaces, but to be honest, I was surprised by how ZenGroup supports employee language growth. I especially love the buddy system! It’s not just about teaching words; you get to know about different cultures and you might even find similarities from other member’s countries. This non-work interactions help communication become smooth when it’s time to collaborate on the job.

Working using Japanese + English

R.O — HR department

Diverse perspectives become a “weapon” specifically in domestic sales

I work using 100% Japanese, but when Iam in the office, members from all over the world are right next to me. However, when I’m struggling with my work , being able to quickly ask the international members sitting next to me for their opinion in Japanese is the strength of this comfortable environment. Even if I can’t speak English, I feel growth being in a supportive international workplace.

Mainly working in Japanese

Y.N — Domestic Sales Team

Conclusion

ZenGroup values the desire to understand the person in front of you more than whether or not you can speak English.
We don’t view the language barriers as a problem , but rather as an “opportunity” to experience and learn a new perspective. We hope all future applicants can feel comfortable submitting their application without having concerns about their language abilities.

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