#Japan #Niigata #Internship Program #New Hires #OM Network

OM Network's Innovative Internship Approach

OM Network, based in Niigata City, Japan, is reshaping the traditional internship model through a new initiative for its incoming employees for 2026. This program introduces the concept of 'Internship Part-Time Work,' allowing new hires to engage with existing employees through a daily 30-minute talk. The goal is to create a comforting and welcoming atmosphere that mitigates the anxieties often felt by new employees before they officially start work.

Reducing Anxiety Through Daily Interactions

As part of this program, prospective employees have the chance to chat with a different employee each day. These discussions can range from career advice to personal interests and hobbies. This approach not only helps to foster essential skills but also ensures that new hires can acclimatize to the company culture ahead of time. This proactive engagement transforms what can often be a tense waiting period into a time of excitement and anticipation.

From Policy to Culture in Recruitment

In 2025, OM Network also introduced four new initiatives aimed at creating a supportive environment for local young professionals. These include:

• - Transportation allowances for newcomers
• - Support for repaying student loans
• - Allowances for harsh weather conditions
• - Provision of rice as a necessity

However, OM Network believes that beyond policies, the company culture and interpersonal relationships among employees are crucial for the overall recruitment process. With the introduction of the 'Internship Part-Time Work' program, the focus is shifting from mere employment structures to emphasizing the human connections that drive inspiration and collaboration.

A 30-Minute Conversation that Transforms Anxiety into Assurance

In September 2025, several new hires gathered in the Niigata office to start their part-time roles which included assisting with various tasks and participating in internal initiatives. Central to this experience is the daily '30-Minute Talk' where an employee engages with a new hire in an open dialogue about diverse topics. This informal exchange creates a welcoming environment where the new hires begin to understand the company’s values and people’s personalities.

Quotes gathered from recent participants in the program reflect a significant decrease in pre-employment anxieties. Many express that the informal nature of these conversations has helped them feel more relaxed and better prepared for their future roles.

Real Voices from New Hires

Feedback from participants highlights their positive experiences:

• - “I was pleased to connect with multiple employees, some of whom I hadn’t interacted with before. Discussing both work and personal interests made the time enjoyable and reassuring.”
• - “Having the chance to ask questions about my future workplace to seasoned professionals before officially starting was invaluable.”
• - “I found the discussions about work-life balance and preparation for my first job year to be incredibly beneficial.”

Many participants noted that these interactions have already fostered a sense of belonging—even before starting full-time employment.

Employees Share Their Thoughts on the Initiative

For employees, the 30-Minute Talks also provide an enriching experience. Senior employees reported forming unexpected connections with new hires, such as discovering shared interests during conversations, which assists in building a nurturing work environment where everyone feels supported.

Future Implications

This initiative is not just beneficial for new hires, but it strengthens the overall company culture. OM Network aims to extend these relationships into post-hire training and project dynamics, ensuring that the collaborative spirit established during these conversations continues.

The company is committed to fostering a culture that balances systematic support with the warmth of human connection. As OM Network continues to develop innovative strategies around employee integration and support, it positions itself as a leader in cultivating a workplace that encourages both comfort and challenge in the budding careers of its employees.