John O'Flaherty

Computer/EE Technology Specialist

“When I became leader of the EE team I gained valuable new skills in conflict resolution, business communication, resource management and problem solving. The opportunity to learn and grow in my position was one of the more memorable aspects of my work in the Firm and it has given me the confidence to know that I can now succeed anywhere.”

 

What was the most difficult aspect of adjusting to work in Japan?

Adjusting to life in Japan was not particularly difficult. You quickly come to realize that you are by no means the first foreign staff that the firm has hired and there is a fairly set procedure for helping people settle in. You can always rely on the many other foreign staff members that will be living in your area and are only too happy to impart some local knowledge.

Adjusting to work life was a slightly different matter. You quickly realize that the job, especially for senior staff is not simply a nine to five and requires a lot of commitment. However, I think the most difficult aspect is the level of responsibility that you get at a relatively early stage. While this develops into the most rewarding part of the job, it doesn't feel like it at times.

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

Although many people join the firm because of their knowledge or admiration of Japanese culture and society, I was not one of them. Therefore I did not have too many preconceptions before arriving. I do remember expecting Japan to be a high tech society, which for the most part turned out to be true. I do not think I will ever take a train ride in another country without thinking how it does not live up to the standards of Japan.

What has been your fondest experience in Japan?

Getting to experience a totally different society and the way it works makes you reevaluate the way things work in your own society and see what maybe you think needs to be changed or makes you appreciate other things about the way you live more.

When I was not at work, I was ...

Eating, although I didn't know it at the time I enjoyed participating in "Kuidaore," which literally means "eat until you drop" or "stuff yourself until you can't eat anymore". Osaka is known as the gourmet capital of Japan and there is a wide selection of restaurants to choose from with so many all you can eat menus. However, now that I have left Japan I probably miss izakayas most of all. They can be found on almost every block and serving beer is a big part of their trade.

What sort of work did you get and was it challenging?

There is a very positive, "can-do" attitude within the company, reflecting the strong track-record of growth which everyone has collectively achieved during my time there. The international exposure gave me a great opportunity to learn the innovation systems and strategies of many different countries, universities and corporations.

When I became leader of the EE team I gained valuable new skills in conflict resolution, business communication, resource management and problem solving. The opportunity to learn and grow in my position was one of the more memorable aspects of my work in the Firm and it has given me the confidence to know that I can now succeed anywhere.

What advice would you give to entry level recruits?

Have an open mind and be willing to adjust to the work environment. The camaraderie in the denki team is strong and you can rely on your team members. In particular, learn all you can from the senior people on your team and take inspiration from them. They have succeeded and you can too. The Firm really works you hard and rewards you accordingly. However, someday you may have to make the personal decision whether continuing to work at the firm is worth it. It definitely was for me and it can be for you too.