Lauren Xu

Accounting Assistant

“Working here has enhanced my self-confidence. The experience gained from working at the Firm has given me the confidence to fearlessly approach each and every new challenge and follow it through until a sound result is achieved.”

 

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

I was surprised by the Japanese hospitality when I first started my life in Japan. Waiters kneel down next to you when taking your order. Salespeople hold your shopping bag, walk you out of the store and goodbye with a ceremonial bow even when you just made a small purchase. It took me a bit of time to adjust myself to such courteous service which I had never experienced.

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

Before I came to Japan, I heard the country is clean and less polluted, but I did not expect to see the country this spotlessly clean even though there are so few trash bins around in the public. Before I came to Japan, I knew the country is famous for its high technology, but did not expect high technology is applied to every aspect of their life. It is pleasant and convenient to live in Japan as people care about their life quality and try their best to keep it and improve it.

I am looking forward to

climbing Mt. Fuji in this summer. Climbing the mountain at night with crowds, enjoying the sunrise at the summit and resting in an onsen at the foot of Mt. Fuji, what a tempting and fabulous experience it would be!

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

They are professional, enthusiastic and confident. They thoroughly explained the firm's practice and work procedures, which set me a good start and a solid foundation for my future operational duties in the firm. They are also helpful and caring, providing me with advice on how to cope with the firm culture and sharing with me their valuable experiences when they first came to Japan. I felt welcomed from the start and very soon became part of this big family.

What work skills and habits have you learned or improved?

Through daily work with colleagues and clients from all over the world in a Japanese firm, by far, my communication skills have improved the most. To avoid any misunderstanding and improve the work productivity, I have adapted to listen more attentively, and express myself in a clearer and more concise manner both verbally and in writing.

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

Working here has enhanced my self-confidence. The experience gained from working at the Firm has given me the confidence to fearlessly approach each and every new challenge and follow it through until a sound result is achieved.

What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?

Time management and knowing how to prioritize your work to meet tight deadlines. We take pride in our high quality work, and therefore training new staff to meet our high standard also became challenging. However, all of these challenges have prepared me for every unpredictable tomorrow.

What one piece of advice you would offer to incoming recruits?

Be prepared to work in a multicultural company. It could be tough if you have little or no experience having interaction with people from different corners of the world. Be open-minded and positive. You will gain unique and rewarding experience from working with people from different cultures and backgrounds.