Sharon Yu

Foreign Attorney

“What I send to clients does have a very real impact on them. It's always satisfying when you get the client results based on your work.”

 

Why did you decide to work in Japan?

I was looking for graduate positions, particularly in the IP field of law and chanced upon a job advertisement for the firm. As I was open to new experiences, I decided to apply for the position, which happened to be based in Japan.

How would you describe your co-workers during your initial time at work?

Because everyone is (or has been) in the same boat, they are all very supportive and friendly. There is definitely a feeling of "squad mentality", especially within the team you work with.

When I am not at work, I am ...

most likely out visiting tourist areas, with friends or sleeping.

What is the most important thing that working at the Firm has taught you about yourself?

The flower that blooms in adversity is the rarest and most beautiful of all. Either that, or to be more confident in what I do and say: it is infinitely harder to convince the client of your view, if you yourself are not entirely convinced.

What might surprise people about working in SY?

I think initially, people will be taken aback by the working hours. However, this may be more of a case of different work cultures, and one does get accustomed to it.

What is your most treasured possession that you've acquired in Japan so far?

Probably my friendships, followed closely by my experiences and my apartment.

Do you feel like you're having an impact directly on the clients that you work for?

As the Trademarks team is directly involved in giving advice to clients in relation to matters such as overcoming hurdles for an application to proceed to registration, or enforcement of trademark rights, what I send to clients does have a very real impact on them. It's always satisfying when you get the client results based on your work.

I am looking forward

travelling around Japan and potentially nearby countries.

What is the funniest thing that happened to you since you arrived in Japan?

Either constantly being approached by people speaking in Japanese, because they mistake me for being Japanese, or being mistaken for being in the firm longer than I actually have been.

What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?

When starting afresh in a new team, there is a somewhat steep learning curve. Also, instances of "lost in translation" occur occasionally which is sometimes problematic.

What advice would you give to newbies?

Not to be disheartened when work gets tough or the work day gets long. People are always willing to listen and help out. Also remember to enjoy your time away from work.

Of all the adjectives floating in your brain, give us three that best describe your life in Japan.

Different, new, experiential.