Can You Answer All The Questions?[Résumé Quiz] – Reasons For Applying, and More (Part 2)

It’s important to write your résumé correctly to make a good impression. There are some detailed rules that are easy to make a mistake, so you should keep them in mind as you write. This time, I’ve prepared a quiz about résumés. Give it a try at ease!

[Question 1] Should you write a “Driver’s License” in the licenses and certifications section?

In the licenses and certifications section of your résumé, you prioritize writing any licenses or certifications that are useful for the job you’re applying for. If you have any language-related qualifications, be sure to include those as well.

Generally, you wouldn’t list certifications unrelated to the desired job, but how about a “Driver’s License”? Do you think it’s a good idea to include it?

“It’s a good idea” is correct!

Even if a “Driver’s License” doesn’t seem directly related to the job you’re applying for, it could suddenly become useful. Therefore, you should need to include a standard driver’s license if you have it.

[Question 2] Which is the correct way to list your TOEIC score in the licenses and certifications section?

You can write your TOEIC score in the licenses and certifications section. Many Japanese companies emphasize TOEIC scores, so you should include it if you have a good score.

In this case, should you write “TOEIC” or the full name, “Test of English for International Communication”?

“TOEIC” is correct!

You don’t need to write the full name, so you should write simply as “TOEIC”. The same goes for “TOEFL” and “IELTS,” but make sure to specify clearly whether it’s an official test or an “IP test”, and indicate “L&R” or “S&W” as appropriate.

[Question 3] In the statement of purpose, should the pronoun be “自分(jibun)” or “私(watakushi)”?

The reason for the application section on résumé is often the most nerve-wracking part. To effectively convey your enthusiasm for the position, you should write it in clear and proper language. In this case, should the first-person pronoun be “自分(jibun)” or is “私(watashi)” more appropriate?

“私(watashi)” is correct!

You should use “私(watakushi)” as the first-person pronoun. For the second-person pronoun when referring to the company you’re applying to, use the formal written term “貴社(kisha)”. Be careful not to add “様(sama)” after “貴社(kisha)”, itself is already a respectful term.

[Question 4] Is it appropriate to say “I want to learn” in the statement of purpose?

If you join a company, you’ll likely feel a strong desire to “learn many things”. You want to keep learning and acquiring skills and knowledge. Do you think it’s a good idea to express this genuine feeling as “the reason for the application section” on résumé?

“Not good” is correct!

Companies hire people not simply for their talent but to help the company grow. Of course, the desire to learn and gain experience through work is important. However, focusing primarily on wanting “to learn” is not good.

Instead, it’s good to emphasize how your learning can benefit the company you’re applying to. For example, you might write about how you intend to contribute specific advantages to the company through learning something.

[Question 5] If you have nothing to add in the personal requests section, is it okay to leave it blank?

At the end of the résumé, there is a “Personal Requests” section. You should write any non-negotiable conditions, such as “I am limited in work location due to caregiving for my parents” or “Certain days are difficult for overtime due to childcare”.

If you don’t have any specific requests, is it acceptable to leave this section blank?

“Not good” is correct!

If there are no non-negotiable conditions, you should write “貴社の規定に従います (I will follow your comply rules)” aligned to the left. Just this one line is perfectly acceptable. Additionally, you may also include available times for contact during the selection process or the earliest date you can start if you’re currently employed or in school.

Did you get all the answers correct? Once you memorize it, you’ll be able to write accurately in a short time. This is also the first step toward working in Japan! Let’s make your resume with the desire to join the company in mind.