January marks a significant period for job seekers and employers in Japan. Known as the "job switch season," it’s a time when employees consider career changes, and companies actively recruit new talent. The beginning of the year symbolizes new opportunities, making January a popular time for job transitions.
Mid-career Job Switch in Japan
Japan has a long-standing tradition of valuing lifetime employment. This approach, which became prominent during the post-war economic boom, reflects the cultural emphasis on loyalty, stability, and mutual responsibility between employers and employees. As a result, switching jobs mid-career was often seen negatively, as it conflicted with the ideals of long-term employment.
While this ideal still influences the workplace culture, particularly in large, traditional companies, the landscape has changed significantly over the years. For example, the term 中途採用 (chūto saiyō), meaning “mid-career recruitment,” once carried a negative connotation. To address this, companies now prefer the term 経験者採用 (keikensha saiyō), or “experienced worker recruitment,” which frames mid-career hires more positively. The common term for switching jobs mid-career is 転職 (tenshoku), which refers to leaving one job for another, often to advance a career or seek better opportunities:
- 転 (ten): Means “to change” or “to transfer.”
- 職 (shoku): Means “job” or “occupation.”
On the employer side, economic challenges such as the bubble burst in the 1990s and the effects of COVID-19 in 2020 have made lifetime employment less practical for many companies. From the employee perspective, younger generations increasingly prioritize work-life balance, personal growth, and opportunities for specialization, which has made job-switching more common. The rise of freelancing, IT startups, and alternative career options has also provided new pathways for those seeking flexibility or different types of roles.
When changing jobs in Japan, it is generally recommended to stay with a company for at least three years. Employers often view this as the minimum time needed to develop skills and demonstrate commitment. In faster-moving industries such as IT and startups, however, shorter tenures of one to two years are often acceptable due to the emphasis on adaptability and innovation. That said, switching jobs within a year can raise concerns unless there is a valid reason, such as working for a black company, relocation, personal reasons, or company closure.
Why January?
Japan has a structured recruitment cycle, with April and October being common starting months for fresh graduate hires. While experienced worker recruitment occurs throughout the year, several factors make January an especially strategic time for job changes:
Bonus payouts.
Many companies distribute year-end bonuses in December. Employees often wait to receive these bonuses before resigning, making January a popular time to begin a job search.
Fiscal year preparation.
For companies with a fiscal year ending in March, January allows sufficient time for onboarding and training new employees before the new financial year begins.
Smooth handover.
Workloads often slow down after the New Year holidays, providing an opportunity to wrap up tasks and ensure a seamless transition for your team before leaving.
New Year’s resolutions.
The tradition of setting personal goals at the start of the year often motivates individuals to pursue new career opportunities.
What to Expect in the Job Market in January
While January offers several advantages for making a career move, it also comes with unique challenges. Here’s what you might encounter:
Increased competition.
January is a peak season for job seekers, with many people looking to change jobs at the same time. This means greater competition for desirable roles, making it essential to stand out.
Potential negative reactions.
If your resignation catches your employer off guard, especially during fiscal year planning or year-end projects, it could leave a negative impression.
Time pressure to secure a role.
Although January is a good time to start your job hunt, the pressure to secure a position before April’s fiscal year starts can be intense. Delays in finding a new role may lead to an unanticipated gap in employment.
Impact on annual leave or benefits.
Resigning in January could mean losing out on unused annual leave or benefits tied to your length of service, depending on your company’s policies.
How to Make the Most of a January Resignation
Resigning in January can open doors to new career opportunities, but it requires careful preparation to ensure a smooth transition. By planning thoughtfully and taking the right steps, you can navigate this process with confidence and make the most of your decision. Here are some practical tips to consider:
Plan ahead
Before submitting your resignation, update your resume, research potential job opportunities, and start building your professional network. A proactive approach will give you a head start in the competitive January job market.
If you’re a foreign worker, confirm that your visa status allows you to change employers. You’ll also need to notify the Immigration Bureau about your job change and may require your new employer’s support for visa renewal.
Leave on good terms
Provide your employer with adequate notice and ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities. Express gratitude for the opportunities you’ve had, as maintaining positive relationships can benefit your future career.
Be financially prepared
Job searches can sometimes take longer than anticipated. Having enough savings to cover living expenses during any employment gap will reduce stress and allow you to focus on finding the right role.
If you’ve been enrolled in koyo hoken, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits during a gap between jobs. To confirm your eligibility, ask your current employer or review your payslips for deductions labeled as Employment Insurance (雇用保険料 - Koyo Hokenryo). This support can be helpful if there are unforeseen delays in starting your new job.
Resigning and switching jobs in January can set the stage for a successful career move, but careful planning is essential to handle the potential challenges. By weighing the pros and cons, you can make a decision that aligns with your personal and professional goals.
However, juggling a full-time job, updating your resume, and researching new opportunities can be overwhelming. That’s where Tokhimo Jobs comes in. Our recruitment agency is dedicated to helping you find career opportunities that aren’t always listed publicly. We provide personalized support, connecting you with companies that match your skills and ambitions. If you're ready for a fresh start or seeking new career paths, we make the process easier and more efficient. Visit Tokhimo Jobs now and let us help you take the next step in your career.
