Japan Job Changes: Updated September 26, 2024

More middle-aged job changers in Japan switching to startups; improved wages a factor

Article Source:  https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20240924/p2a/00m/0bu/024000c

Ideas:

It could be sign that Japanese workers are looking for something different and not just the same 9 to 6 type job, as startups might give them more a sense of accomplishment and or maybe even a better work-life experience.

At the same time, the 40-plus group usually is focused on job security and of course income and they might have been in their present job for many years. So, again, it says something, if true, that this group has decided they need something different or better in their lives and for their families.

While the 20 to 39 age group might still be focused on the large Japanese company job, and they might feel somewhat satisfied with their job, at this point.

Even though the article says there was a 3.1 percent increase it really doesn't mean that much as it doesn't talk about the actual number of job changers.

If the article is true, it seems job seekers are looking for better salaries and jumping to startups who seem to be offering a better salary despite the risks of working for a new company like a startup.

It will be interesting to see if these so-called startups will be in business 5 or even 10 years from now, as sometimes don't make it more than 5 years.

If these salaries are true and correct, the large name-brand companies might have competition and might need to think about offering similar salaries to keep their best talent who might be thinking of leaving for as startup.

Is this trend for Japanese startups, usually in the tech sector to compete with companies in the US or even India who are looking for global talent everywhere.

The idea that young workers at startups work too hard might be similar to what is happening in Silicon valley in the US where the work and hours are just too much and too hard, but the young workers seem to like it as they get paid generously.

But at the same time, many companies are looking at the work-life balance situation as many workers are tired of just chasing a good salary and want something better for themselves and their families.

Japanese companies trying to copy what the Silicon Valley startups do might not be the best choice for Japan, as the work culture is very much different, even though some Japanese companies require their workers to work long hours similar to what companies do in Silicon Valley.

Startups, globally, are always going to be have some labor shortages, as most workers are looking for stability and not just a  good salary as startups can be very risky, as most don't last more than 5 or 10 years, which might detract some workers.

But at the same time, if the Japanese government has programs in place with generous subsidies for startups, that might be enough to entice some to join a startup.

And yes, startup companies need to be as transparent as possible to appeal to workers who might think startups are too risky and I need a more stable work situation.

Have a nice day!