Meet Our Talent
Tom Robson
IP Assistant
What was the most difficult aspect of adjusting to work in Japan?
In terms of my work life, the most difficult aspect was that problems and challenges in the workplace get approached in a very different way than they do back home in the UK. In this sense, being patient and open minded are important qualities to have when adjusting to the Japanese workplace. This advice is also pertinent for life in general in Japan - it is a unique country where things get done a little bit differently than elsewhere in the world. Being open-minded is an absolute must when adjusting to living in Japan!
How did you cope with the stresses of working and living in Japan?
When working in this Firm, you are very lucky to be surrounded by many foreign members of staff who have gone through the same experiences as you - if you ever have a problem either at work or outside, you are almost guaranteed that someone else has experienced that same problem. Having interests outside of work and doing things when you have time off is of great importance if you are to enjoy, and get the most out of your time in Japan. There is an abundance of things to do and see in the Kansai region, and Japan as a whole. I have made it a point to travel around Japan as much as I can in my free time.
What has been your fondest experience in Japan?
I was fortunate enough to have worked in the branch office in Fukuoka for 6 months. When I was told that I was being sent, I found the idea somewhat daunting - a new city, a new office with staff I had never met before, and all by myself! However, I cherished my time in Fukuoka, and for many reasons. Besides from sampling the many culinary delights that Kyushu has to offer (I would routinely eat my own body weight in ramen at the weekends!), it was a great pleasure working in a smaller, more intimate office where I was afforded the opportunity to get to know the staff very well. Kyushu is also a great place to travel around - I will never forget seeing Sakurajima, a volcano on the southern tip of Kyushu, erupt.
What did you like most about living in Osaka?
Because it is fast paced and there is always something going on at whatever time of day or night, it is an incredibly exciting place to live. I am sure that when I eventually go back home, I will find life somewhat mundane compared to my time living in Osaka.
What sort of work did you get and was it challenging?
Each day I am faced with a great variety of work, which requires me to think outside the box in order to analyze and solve complex issues and problems on behalf of the Firm's clients. At first the work can be a challenge, but after a while you learn how to approach problems in an effective manner, asking the "right" questions and providing solutions to those problems.
What did you like most about working in the Firm?
I greatly enjoy working in a truly international office, not only in terms of my Japanese colleagues, but also my co-foreign workers. Not only does this make for interesting conversations in the office, it also means that a variety of approaches are taken with regards to problems faced in the workplace and teaches you to consider and appreciate alternative perspectives. Working with people from a very different culture and background to mine has given me an excellent foundation to develop my skills both personally and professionally after graduating from university.
What advice would you give to entry level recruits?
Nobody expects you to be perfect when you first start. As an entry level graduate you do not always get it right the first time since you are growing and learning your role, responsibility and work environment. However, you will soon get to grips with your role as you learn from your more experienced colleagues. As I indicated earlier, the work can be difficult at times, but I see this as a challenge and makes me engage more deeply with my work.