I left the job that was going to send me back to Singapore to the dismay of the President and the agency that introduced me to the job (probably also to the disappointment of my family). Not because it was going to send me back to Singapore. I was fine with it, but I shall not go into the details of my decision to leave.
The agent called me after that sounding like he was trying to convince me to take up jobs that require me to live in Singapore for some period of time, because… and then he started telling me about all the amazing things about Singapore such as its geographically superior location, its market-deaf currency, its incredible growth, economic potential, etc. like I don’t already know that. I usually tune out when people tell me to choose something based on economic potential or wealth. Sure, many people in the world make decisions that way, but I didn’t choose Japan because of money. Not everything is about money. Sure, if you give me a job here that pays well, I will take it, but not if it’s outside Japan for now.
And to live up to the Moving Monster nickname, I’ll be moving back into Tokyo yet again! This is what they call 引っ越し貧乏. Yep, I’m getting broke from moving to my 7th apartment in 4 years. But at least I’m contributing to the property rental industry.
! I get calls about positions in manufacturing companies that require me to be stationed in Sg as well! Guess there’re way too few Singaporeans in Japan. Looking forward to reading about your new job and place, somehow I like reading about changes. For the better, of course.
Hey Z,
Yes, I actually spoke with the agency on that before and they showed me their database figures (just figures; no personal details) and there were only around 150 Singaporeans registered in their system. Among those, fewer than half are in Japan, and among those in Japan, the number of people looking for a job at any one time is even fewer, which results in the lack of supply. Besides, I believe most Singaporeans wouldn’t work so hard to make it all the way here just to be sent back. Seems like a lot of Japanese firms are shifting their Asia headquarters to Singapore or at least creating an Asia Pac office there.
I like change too, except that most companies in Japan don’t think that way. They might think I switch jobs too often.
While changing jobs often is generally frowned upon here, the IT and gaming industry seems to think otherwise, I’m told (ok maybe it doesn’t concern you). But switching too often does give a bad impression, no matter where. Anyway I’d quit if the job proves way too stressful for me, because there’s really no point in sticking it out if you’re depressed. (also means no will power, but I can’t be bothered)
It’s been a long time since I commented! I’m still reading, just so you know.
All circumstances and 引越し貧乏 aside, I’m glad to have you sticking around in Japan, and I’m glad you said this – “I usually tune out when people tell me to choose something based on economic potential or wealth. Sure, many people in the world make decisions that way, but I didn’t choose Japan because of money. Not everything is about money.”
YES.
I don’t think I’ve told you this, but I’m really glad to have you as a friend. It’s really such a pleasure to know you. 🙂
Catch up with you soon!
Hey,
I actually didn’t think you were still reading but happy to know that you are.
You were also one of the people I thought I definitely want to befriend when I first saw your message.
See you again soon.
Would you be able to share which agency that was? I’m really happy to be in Japan now, but my parents are older and some point soon they’ll ask me to go back and I’ll be hard-placed to say no.
Working at a Japanese company would probably help to take some of the sting out of going back. At least I hope so.
The company is called B-cause Inc. and their recruitment branch is HiWork (http://staff.hiwork.jp/).
Thanks for the help!