Hi, nice to meet you! I'm Amanda. I've been studying Japanese for two years. I am studying for the JLPT and kanji tests. I also lived in Tsukuba for a little while. I graduated from graduate school, and now I work in robotic rehabilitation. The best robots are Japanese-made! Please write me!
I am interested in the experiences of Japanese women who live in America. Therefore, I am a writing a report. I am making a simple speech in Japanese.
This is my question: How is it different living in America as a woman than living in Japan? What are the benefits and what are the difficulties?
My Japanese is not good, so please give simple reasons.
I have my working experience both in Tokyo and the US.(I went to high school both in TN and Tokyo and graduated from the University both in Tokyo and Cali.) Now, I work for American company and I am the only Japanese working in the department.
Honestly, I like to work both in Tokyo and the US. I think that all depend on where you live and the company is located and whom you work with.
Luckly, all of my (former and current) bosses and co-workers are nice and I'm (was) confortable to work with them. Besides, I set my professional goals at early 20's and it has been keeping me busy to learn now things and pushing me for higher level toward my professional goals. While I work for the company in Tokyo(their HQ is located in Texas, in the US),most of my co-workers were responsible and could get their jobs done soon and accurate. Basically, Japanese focus on the details more than Americans do and also tend to think that relationship between people in business should be more important. So, you may have known, they often go out for drink after work with their associates, bosses, and customers.
Of course, there's the same thing going on in the US, but it is somewhat complicated to buid the relationship with business people in Japan.
However, Japanese people are basically humble and trying to adjust once new situation comes up. Some women or young employees can't speak out their own ideas in fornt of others, especially for their bosses or the those who are older tha them. They require respect from others in some ways. However, it all depends on the situation you are in.
In my opinion, most of the business take more time in the US. Some people tend to do LATER if they don't think it's urgent.(even if it's urgent)
This sometimes make me irritated and I wonder how come I should ask them to confirm if they've done many times....but, here, I shouldn't be worried about relationship with others closely that much, just try to socialize as much as I can not to get in any trouble with others in my work place. It's more simple.
Please send me a message if you may have any questions