#Japan #Osaka #ROOKIE’S CLUB #JinJib #Graduate Support

ROOKIE’S CLUB: Nurturing Growth for New High School Graduates

In April 2025, the innovative ROOKIE’S CLUB program will launch across nine locations in Japan, run by JinJib, a company dedicated to supporting high school graduates in their transition to the workforce. With sessions scheduled in major cities such as Sendai, Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Hiroshima, and Fukuoka, alongside first-time offerings in Shizuoka, Okayama, and Kumamoto, the program aims to assist over 100 companies in training their new high school hires.

Background of the Initiative

Recent statistics from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare reveal a concerning trend, with 38.4% of new graduates leaving their jobs within three years due to various reasons such as job dissatisfaction, company uncertainty, and unfulfilling benefits. Alarmingly, 17.4% of these departures occur within the first year, marking a significant difference compared to college graduates at 10.9%.

To address this pressing issue, JinJib is launching ROOKIE’S CLUB to facilitate open communication and growth among newly hired high school graduates. This program provides a platform for participants to share their workplace challenges and enhance their foundational skills through interactive workshops. An impressive 79% of past participants expressed a desire to recommend the program to future newcomers, highlighting the benefits of connecting with peers facing similar challenges and the value of taking a constructive break from their work environment.

JinJib’s commitment to this initiative stems from a deep understanding of the importance of ongoing support for high school graduates as they step into their new professional lives. The aim is to alleviate post-employment anxieties, foster long-term career development, and enhance company success through well-prepared, confident employees. The program emphasizes practical learning to help participants recognize the significance of work and develop a robust career path.

What is ROOKIE’S CLUB?

The ROOKIE’S CLUB is a structured training program for newly minted high school graduates designed to enhance their career adaptability and promote growth with their peers in a nurturing environment. Conducted monthly, this year-long program covers essential mindsets and skills necessary for successful professional integration. Participants are encouraged to broaden their perspectives, transform their outlooks, and engage in fulfilling learning experiences.

The program prioritizes team-building among diverse company cohorts, allowing participants to bond and develop as they work through shared challenges. Each session is facilitated by experienced professionals such as former educators, certified career consultants, and active HR personnel who offer objective advice and ensure participants remain focused on their growth. Through ongoing evaluations, participants receive support that promotes a healthy work environment.

Key Features of ROOKIE’S CLUB

1. Enhanced Support Structure

Participants benefit from dedicated facilitators with diverse professional backgrounds who provide guidance and mental health support. Monthly reports on participant progress and mental well-being ensure ongoing communication with their respective companies, allowing for tailored guidance and resources as needed.

2. Networking Opportunities

ROOKIE'S CLUB is not just about learning; it fosters connections among peers from various companies, allowing participants to share insights on struggles they may feel uncomfortable discussing at work. This community aspect provides a psychological safe space outside their professional settings, which can significantly enhance their confidence.

3. Comprehensive Skill Development

The program focuses on instilling essential mindsets and skills through various group activities. By learning alongside peers from different industries, participants engage in collaborative problem-solving and cultivate essential skills that promote a positive work ethic.

Feedback from Participants

Several participants have shared their positive experiences:

• - Kazuhisa Noda, CEO of Wako Printing, notes the importance of facilitating healthy communication among young employees, which is crucial for retention. The ROOKIE’S CLUB has proven to be instrumental in easing the transition and enhancing the workplace dynamic.
• - Noboru Kikuchi, CEO of Oookey, emphasizes that the program provides essential support for young hires and understands that fostering a sense of individual capability is crucial for their growth.

Conclusion

The ROOKIE’S CLUB program is poised to make significant strides in combating high dropout rates among high school graduates entering the workforce, providing them with the tools and confidence they need to thrive. As more companies recognize the value of investing in their newest members, JinJib's initiative offers a promising path to a brighter future for both employees and employers alike.