Kim Cornelio

Assistant

“The best thing about being in a global team is being exposed to different cultures and ways of thinking. We learn to adjust, respect, and appreciate others' perspectives.”

 

What were the initial difficulties of adjusting to life in Japan?

The very steep learning curve during the first couple of months in the firm is tough to get used to. Getting used to the work ethic in a Japanese firm also took some adjusting for me. Although I studied in Japan for a few years, I think the culture in a Japanese company is still different from my experience in the university. Thankfully, my co-workers were all very patient in teaching and were generous enough to share their tips & tricks at work.

How would you describe your co-workers?

They are all very hard-working, have great attention to detail, and are consistent. They are always putting their best efforts in doing work.

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

Yes. The quality of our work is helping our clients achieve the best results they can get.

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

watching Korean/Japanese dramas, hanging out with friends, baking, or traveling within Japan or to nearby countries (if time permits). I also love staying home and just experiment cooking different kinds of dishes.

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

Working at the firm made me realize that I have to fully accept my working environment before I can fully adjust to it. Our work also taught me how to be patient, meticulous, and be graceful under pressure.

What have been your 3 fondest leisure experiences in Japan?

I love snowboarding with friends. Every year, I make it a point to spend a long weekend in the snow park. I also love going to onsen, especially the outdoor ones during winter. Then, going for overnight karaoke and eating tabehoudai yakiniku (all you can eat roast meat) with friends.

What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?

Giving the best possible advice to our clients. It takes a lot of researching, reading and understanding to come up with the best and most cost-efficient strategies for our clients. It is always on a case-to-case basis, which makes it more challenging. Not to mention, we have to come up with answers quick. Speed and quality all the time.

What is the best thing about being a part of a global team?

The best thing about being in a global team is being exposed to different cultures and ways of thinking. We learn to adjust, respect, and appreciate others' perspectives.

I am looking forward to experience ...

the famous festivals in the different prefectures of Japan. I would also like to experience the Shinkansen from Akita to Hokkaido, which goes underwater.

What was the most pleasant surprise you experienced at work?

There are so many Filipinos working in the Firm! It makes me feel like I'm just at home.

What advice would you give to newbies?

When you are unsure of something, read first before asking. It will surely be beneficial for you. And you will not end up wasting your co-workers' time.

Of all the adjectives floating in your brain, give us three that best describe your life in Japan. First in English, then in your mother tongue.

Unique, fast-paced, convenient. Nakakapagod, mahirap, (pero) masaya.