Introducing a New Series from HELP YOU: Showcasing Local Charms by Telecommuters in Japan

HELP YOU’s New Initiative: Celebrating Local Life

In an effort to empower remote workers and promote the wonders of local living, HELP YOU, an online outsourcing service operated by Knit Co. based in Shibuya, Tokyo, has launched a new series titled "Local Relocation x Telecommuting: My Local Pride." Founded on the premise of full remote work, HELP YOU has grown to include over 600 members who are engaged in online work across Japan and in 35 countries worldwide.

The Series Overview

The new series aims to showcase the compelling stories of HELP YOU members who have relocated to various regions in Japan and transitioned to telecommuting. Each installment highlights a specific area, diving into the unique attributes of the locale as well as the realities of living and working there. The series intends to provide inspiration to those hesitant about moving to a different area due to employment concerns by presenting successful examples of telecommuters, as well as illustrating an ideal lifestyle that’s achievable through the flexibility of remote work.

What to Expect

The first two editions will focus on:
1. Hida City, Gifu Prefecture
2. Amami Island, Kagoshima Prefecture
These stories are targeted at individuals yearning to move to their dream locations but feeling constrained by the job market. The series serves as a reminder that telecommuting offers a viable second option for achieving an ideal lifestyle, despite the challenges posed by traditional employment.

The Underlying Social Context

As Japan grapples with the dual challenges of an aging population and a declining birth rate, many rural areas are facing a critical shortage of workforce. Conversely, the Tokyo metropolitan area continues to attract a large influx of residents. This imbalance has created significant barriers to relocation for individuals aspiring to live in rural locales.
According to a 2020 survey commissioned by the Cabinet Secretariat, a staggering number of people cited insufficient job opportunities as the primary reason preventing their relocation to rural areas. Additionally, the fear of lower wages compared to urban employment solidifies this reluctance. However, rising interest in rural living illustrates a growing trend; the proportion of individuals expressing desire to relocate to the countryside has risen from 30.2% in 2020 to 35.1% in 2023.

Cultivating a New Future

Knit has long aimed to create a society where individuals can select their futures. Since its founding in 2015, the company has focused on full remote working as a means of achieving this goal. The traditional work model has often restricted personal choices about lifestyles, such as moving to the countryside or managing work-life balance, which hinders many from living in their preferred locations.

Through this initiative, HELP YOU challenges these constraints and broadens the possibilities for those considering rural life. With real-life examples from telecommuters, the series illustrates the potential of living in a rural area while remaining engaged in meaningful work.

About “Kurashi to Shigoto”

“Kurashi to Shigoto” is a web media platform operated by Knit Co, aimed at supporting those who wish to take control of their futures. The platform shares stories and experiences centered around telecommuting, rural relocation, parenting while working, balancing side jobs, and more. By amplifying the voices of those who practice these diverse working methods, the platform inspires individuals to consider their own ideal lifestyles.

Find out more at Kurashi to Shigoto.

What is HELP YOU?

HELP YOU is an online outsourcing platform connecting talented assistants with various companies for tasks ranging from HR and accounting to document creation. With a focus on enabling businesses to concentrate on their core operations, HELP YOU combines skilled talents with advanced technology to optimize performance.

For more information, visit HELP YOU.