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Supporting Foreign Workers in Japan: The Role of Techno Service

As globalization continues to garner pace, foreign workers have become an integral part of the labor force in Japan. Techno Service Co., Ltd., headquartered in Tokyo's Chiyoda district, is at the forefront of ensuring that these workers can thrive in their roles despite the barriers posed by language and cultural differences. With around 1,200 foreign dispatched staff from about 40 countries, the company is dedicated to removing obstacles and fostering an inclusive work environment through its support specialized department, the Global Coordination Center (GCC).

The Global Coordination Center (GCC)

Established in August 2019, the GCC serves as a vital resource for foreign staff, staffed by 13 proficient foreign employees knowledgeable in social security and Japanese work regulations. These staff members provide assistance in seven languages: English, Portuguese, Tagalog, Chinese, Vietnamese, Nepali, and Japanese. Their roles include, but are not limited to, job introductions, explanation and assistance on social insurance procedures and year-end adjustments, consultation on work-related issues, management of working hours, and monitoring of residency qualifications and deadlines.

The GCC’s mission is to reduce the barriers foreign workers face in Japan by offering guidance and support in their native languages throughout their employment journey—from job search to post-employment. This concentrated effort helps staff members feel less isolated and ensures they can leverage their skills effectively within Japan's unique labor market.

Overcoming Language Barriers

The language barrier is a significant challenge for many foreign workers. Understanding job descriptions, workplace protocols, and legal requirements requires comprehensive support, especially in a language as complex as Japanese. The GCC employs various strategies to facilitate communication and understanding. For example, social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are utilized to disseminate job information in multiple languages, allowing job seekers to engage comfortably in their native tongues.

Additionally, the center conducts job registrations and matches positions using simplified language and personalized consultations over the phone. This approach many candidates have found vital, particularly those struggling to express their needs in Japanese.

Continuous Support During Employment

While the job search process is crucial, ongoing support is equally important. The GCC assists with navigating complicated insurance procedures, labor management, and workplace rules using straightforward explanations in the workers' mother tongues or simplified Japanese and English. This ensures that employees can address issues such as health insurance registration, work hours, or personal concerns without the added stress of language comprehension.

Moreover, they provide reminders regarding residency status and updates on necessary documentation, supporting employees in maintaining their legal status while in Japan.

Post-Employment Assistance

Understanding the nuances of leaving a position and pursuing new job opportunities is another area where foreign workers commonly require assistance. The GCC does not stop at termination of employment but continues to support workers in completing necessary paperwork and facilitating their transition to new job placements based on personal preferences and qualifications.

Addressing the Workforce Gap

The need for foreign labor in Japan continues to rise, especially in manufacturing and light industry. However, challenges such as cultural differences, language comprehension, and understanding of Japan's unique labor practices present hurdles for many foreign employees. By providing robust support structures like the GCC, Techno Service is not just addressing the needs of employees but also aiding companies struggling with severe labor shortages.

In a time when companies seek to navigate the complexities of integrating foreign staff, the GCC stands as a bridge that enhances understanding and efficiency, ensuring both parties can thrive. This initiative underlines not only the necessity of comprehensive corporate structures that embrace diversity but also the potential for a more inclusive future in the Japanese workforce.

Voices of Foreign Workers

Feedback from current foreign workers highlights the positive impact of the GCC. For instance, a Brazilian male who works as a machine operator in Osaka expressed his gratitude for the support in login procedures and paperwork assistance. Another employee, a female from the Philippines, noted how crucial the GCC’s empathetic listening was in alleviating her anxieties while learning job duties.

Techno Service's efforts exemplify how dedicated support can transform the experience of foreign workers and alleviate their isolation not only, enhancing workplace productivity but fostering a sense of belonging in their new environment. Looking ahead, the company is committed to continuing these vital support strategies to encourage foreign staff to thrive in Japan, helping them overcome barriers and contribute their skills effectively to their respective workplaces.