Mercury Launches 'Oshi-Katsu Recruitment' for New Graduates in 2026

Mercury's Innovative 'Oshi-Katsu Recruitment'

Mercury, a leading human resource service company headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo, is set to shake up traditional hiring processes with the launch of its 'Oshi-Katsu Recruitment' program for students graduating in 2026. Designed to focus on personal feelings and values, this initiative seeks to establish a more genuine connection between applicants and employers.

With an increasing number of students feeling the pressure of conventional job searches, Mercury aims to alleviate these concerns by introducing interviews that allow candidates to discuss their favorite interests, or 'oshi.' Through what they call the 'Oshi-Katsu Interview,' students can share their individual passions, whether it be anime, idols, artists, sports teams, or fashion, thereby showcasing their true selves in a casual setting.

Addressing Traditional Interview Challenges

Many students feel uncomfortable with classic job application requirements like self-promotions and recounting past academic achievements. According to a survey by Mynavi, 53.8% of students have felt setbacks during interviews, highlighting the flaws of traditional selection methods. By shifting the focus to applicants' interests and motivations, Mercury's approach intends to help students express their genuine feelings and uniqueness, creating a more interactive and meaningful dialogue with prospective employers.

The Importance of 'Oshi-Katsu'

The concept of 'oshi-katsu' reflects a growing culture among younger generations, where 55% of those aged 18-29 report having a personal 'oshi.' It involves supporting their favorite interests or figures, revealing that the 'oshi' phenomenon has over 14 million participants in Japan alone. This vibrant culture is seen as fueling the energy of youth, which Mercury believes can serve as an ideal starting point for open and authentic discussions during interviews.

Overview of 'Oshi-Katsu Recruitment'

In the 'Oshi-Katsu Interview,' candidates are not required to present traditional self-promotional narratives. Instead, they can freely discuss various topics that spark their interest. The criteria for evaluation will revolve around their expression, passion, and ability to resonate with others.

Target Group

This recruitment process is aimed at graduating students from junior colleges, vocational schools, universities, and graduate schools in 2026.

Selection Flow

1. Online company briefing.
2. Oshi-Katsu Interview.
3. Final selection.

Upcoming online briefing sessions will be held on:

- September 12, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
- September 19, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
- September 24, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
- September 30, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Further details can be found on the dedicated page or on Mynavi 2026.

Building a New Relationship Between Students and Companies

Mercury aims to embody its vision of being an 'Emotional Agent' and is dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals they engage with. Through initiatives like the 'Oshi-Katsu Recruitment,' the company strives to offer platforms for youth to discover and expand their capabilities. This innovative approach not only brings applicants’ unique qualities to the forefront but also seeks to foster a new type of relationship between students and employers that prioritizes personal connection over traditional assessments.

Media Inquiry

For media inquiries regarding the 'Oshi-Katsu Recruitment,' including interviews and coverage of the recruitment process, Mercury's public relations team is available at: [email protected].

About Mercury

Mercury, established in 2006, operates out of the Shinjuku Nomura Building in Tokyo. The CEO, Tsuyoshi Akima, leads a workforce of over 5,610 employees committed to human resource services, sales promotions, education, entertainment, and outsourcing. The company aims to enhance societal connections and expand opportunities for all individuals.

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