Chris von Zuben

Computer/EE Technology Specialist

“The most important thing that working at the Firm has taught me about myself is that I am less averse to working in an office for long periods of time than I thought I would be.”

 

How was Japan in reality to what you had imagined before you arrived?

The public transit in Japan is actually pretty good (I can't say the same for Toronto, which is where I come from).

How would you describe your co-workers?

Smart and very reliable.

What interesting technologies have you worked on?

I have worked on a lot of medical devices and systems which provides an interesting look into the medical field that I have never seen before.

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

There are many interesting people from all over the world to meet at the office.

What are your 3 fondest leisure experiences in Japan?

Onsen, Onsen, Onsen. The onsen really is my favorite thing in Japan. Hiking in the country side and the mountains is also really fun.

What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?

We don't always have good news to report to the clients, but we must always be clear and never mislead the clients, while also doing our best to ensure that the client is happy.

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

Speaking Japanese. I am not confident in speaking Japanese, and I am still pretty shy about yelling out in a restaurant, "sumimasen!!" to get the server’s attention.

I am looking forward to

traveling all over different parts of Japan. I like the rural part where they have lots of onsen.

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

I am less averse to working in an office for long periods of time than I thought I would be.

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

To communicate with all the people around the world with similar age.

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

traveling (to find new onsen), or just chillin and playing video games.

What advice would you give a potential new colleague?

Practice communicating clearly. You will need to do a lot of writing, and you will need to speak a lot to your colleges. One of your most important skills will be being able to make your points clear and concise.

What's been your proudest professional moment since working here?

Becoming fully independent at my job was a good moment in realizing my self-development, while knowing I still have a long way to go to improve.