外資系面接で多い20の英語質問を和訳付きで紹介!流れやコツも解説します

2023.12.10

  • Career Advice
外資系面接で多い20の英語質問を和訳付きで紹介!流れやコツも解説します

Differences between foreign-affiliated and Japanese-affiliated companies


Foreign-affiliated and Japanese-affiliated companies differ in every aspect, including corporate culture, work styles, decision-making processes, and compensation systems.

For example, in terms of work style, foreign-affiliated companies require a global perspective and flexibility. On the other hand, Japanese-affiliated companies emphasize tradition and stability, and a hierarchy exists, so careful and thoughtful decision-making is required.

Also, in terms of compensation systems, foreign-affiliated firms tend to adopt a performance-based and bonus system, while Japanese-affiliated firms focus more on seniority and welfare systems.

Therefore, the points of appeal and self-introductions at interviews should be modified to be appropriate for each.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

Interview process for foreign companies


The main flow of the interview process for foreign companies is as follows

Self-introduction
Explanation of reasons for changing jobs and motivation for applying
Show your skills and achievements
Reverse questions

Let's take a look at the following.

 

1.Self-introduction

Self-introduction is one of the most important elements of an interview with a foreign company.

It is important to present your background, expertise, and skills in a concise and interesting manner. Focus on your biography, strengths, and past accomplishments to clearly convey your value.

 

2. Explain your reasons for changing jobs and why you are applying for the position.

The reason for changing jobs and motivation should explain your motivation for applying to the company you are applying to, including your past experiences, accomplishments, and career goals. You may view this as a time to share your future with the company to which you are applying.

For example, the following is a good example of a motivation for applying to a foreign company.

For example, a motivation for applying to a foreign company should include the following

In addition to its global perspective, your company has a strong upward drive to always be at the top, which matches my ideal work environment. I am particularly attracted to your company's vision and the projects you undertake.

Please refer to the following for an example of my response in English.

 

3. Show your skills and accomplishments

Next, you should show your skills and accomplishments in the interview. There is no answer to this question, as the method of appealing depends on your achievements and strengths. The following are examples of how to showcase your skills and accomplishments.

Examples of Achievements

I will contribute to the projects in which your company participates through projects and processes such as XXX (specific details) that I have achieved in the past. I would also like to continue to hone my project resolution skills and strive to contribute even more value than before.

You may also use the interview with a foreign company as an opportunity to showcase your language skills and international experience.

 

4. Reverse Questions

As with Japanese companies, interviews at Gaishikei companies provide time for "reverse questions," in which you can ask questions of the interviewer as well.

It is a standard and recommended practice to use this time to not only answer questions, but also to demonstrate your ambition and adaptability.

Please refer to the following section for recommended reverse questions, both in English and Japanese.

Through reverse questions, you can promote a two-way dialogue with the interviewer and demonstrate that you are a good fit for the company to which you are applying.

What to look for in a foreign company interview


The following are points to be looked for in a foreign company interview.

  • Communication
  • Understanding and willingness to do the job
  • Positive attitude
  • Leadership

Let's take a look at these points in more detail below.

 

Communication

Communication skills are a key factor in interviews at foreign companies. In a global environment, communication skills can greatly affect performance.

For example, they will be looking to see if you can express your thoughts appropriately to team members, and if you can express complex ideas in a way that makes sense to them.

You will also be asked whether you can "communicate smoothly" and respectfully with colleagues and clients from different cultures and backgrounds.

It is important to listen carefully to the interviewer's questions and respond appropriately.

 

Understanding and willingness to do the job

Understanding of and willingness to do the job is another key point to be looked at. In this regard, it is a good idea to know the latest industry trends and the strengths of the company, and to be able to talk about your motivation and career goals based on this knowledge.

Interviews at foreign companies also emphasize a willingness to take on new challenges and an attitude that values learning. In this regard, it is a good idea to convey your plans and interests for future growth and demonstrate your willingness to contribute.

 

Positive attitude

Interviewing for a foreign company requires a proactive attitude that is willing to provide information and lead the conversation. An active approach and assertiveness are points that are valued on the job.

A willingness to take on new projects and challenges is also important. It is a good idea to demonstrate the attitude and preparedness you have learned through past experiences and approaches to difficulties.

In addition, if you can demonstrate your commitment to personal growth by acquiring new skills and knowledge, you will be evaluated even more highly by employers.

 

Leadership

In a foreign company, each individual, not just leaders and managers, must have the desire and ability to lead projects.

Therefore, it is important to be specific about your leadership experience in past projects and teams during interviews at Gaishikei companies.

For example, during the interview, it is a good idea to show specific experiences of working with a team to jointly achieve a goal and how your own leadership impacted the motivation of the team members.
 

20 Most Frequently Asked Questions in a Foreign Company Interview


外資系の面接で多い質問は次の通りです。

【質問1】

Tell me about yourself.

→あなたについて教えてください。

【質問2】

Why are you considering a job change, and what attracts you to our company?

→なぜ転職を考えているのですか?当社を志望する理由は何ですか?

【質問3】

What are your strengths? Do you have any weaknesses?

→あなたの強みは何ですか?また、弱みはありますか?

【質問4】

Can you share a significant accomplishment or success story from your career?

→これまでのキャリアで最も自信を持っている成功体験は何ですか?

【質問5】

Can you describe a challenging situation you faced while working in a team and how you handled it?

→チームで協力する中で直面した難題や、それに対する対処法はありますか?

【質問6】

Have you ever worked on a large-scale project? How did you manage it?

→大規模なプロジェクトを経験したことがありますか?その際、どのようにプロジェクトを進めましたか?

【質問7】

Tell me about a time when you took a leadership role. What was your approach?

→過去にリーダーシップのポジションでどのような役割を果たしましたか?

【質問8】

How do you handle high-stress situations? Can you share an example?

→ストレスの高い状況での経験や、それにどのように対処したかを教えてください。

【質問9】

What are your future career goals and plans?

→将来のキャリアの目標や計画は何ですか?

【質問10】

Have you worked in an international environment or collaborated with diverse cultures?

→国際的な環境での仕事や、異なる文化との仕事の経験はありますか?

【質問11】

What have you done recently to enhance your skills, and how do you work on self-improvement?

→自己成長のために最後に行ったことや、現在のスキルを向上させるための努力はありますか?

【質問12】

How familiar are you with the latest trends and changes in the industry our company operates in?

→当社が属する業界に関して、最新の動向や変化についてどれだけ知っていますか?

【質問13】

Can you share a significant challenge you've faced in the past and how you overcame it?

→過去に直面した大きな挑戦や困難な状況について語ってください。

【質問14】

What impact or value do you believe you would bring to a team?

→あなたがチームにもたらすであろう影響や付加価値は何ですか?

【質問15】

Can you provide an example of a time when you proposed a creative solution to a complex problem?

→複雑な問題に対してクリエイティブな解決策を提案した経験はありますか?

【質問16】

Why do you resonate with our company's mission and vision, and how do you see yourself contributing to it?

→なぜ当社のミッションやビジョンに共感を覚え、その一部となりたいと考えたのですか?

【質問17】

What is your understanding of diversity and inclusion, and how do you practice it in the workplace?

→多様性とインクルージョン(社内で一体感をもって目標達成に向かうこと)についてどのような理解があり、それを実践に移す方法はありますか?

【質問18】

How do you approach learning and growth from failures or mistakes?

→失敗やミスを経験したとき、それからどのように学び、成長しましたか?

【質問19】

When managing multiple projects simultaneously, how do you prioritize tasks and manage your time?

→複数のプロジェクトを同時進行する場合、時間管理や優先順位のつけ方はどのようにしていますか?

【質問20】

Do you have any questions for us?

面接官に対して質問がありますか?(逆質問)

Frequently Asked Questions and Sample Answers for Gaishikei Interviews in English


Here are some common questions and sample answers for English interviews with foreign companies.

【質問1】

Why are you considering a job change, and what attracts you to our company?

→なぜ転職を考えているのですか?当社を志望する理由は何ですか?

【回答例1】

I am considering a job change to seek new challenges and professional growth. Your company's commitment to innovation and its dynamic, collaborative work environment align perfectly with my career aspirations. I am particularly attracted to the exciting projects your team is involved in, and I believe my skills would contribute positively. Joining your company represents a strategic move for my career, and I am eager about the opportunity to contribute to and learn from a forward-thinking organization.

転職を考えているのは、新たな挑戦と専門的成長の機会を求めるためです。貴社のイノベーションへの姿勢とダイナミックで協力的な職場環境は、私のキャリアの目標と合致しています。特に貴社のチームが関わっているエキサイティングなプロジェクトに魅力を感じ、私のスキルがポジティブに寄与できると考えています。貴社への参加はキャリアにおける戦略的な一歩であり、前向きな組織から貢献し学ぶ機会に期待しています。

【質問2】

What are your future career goals and plans?

→将来のキャリアの目標や計画は何ですか?

【回答例2】

My future career goals involve continuous professional growth and impactful contributions to innovative projects. In the short term, I aim to refine my skills in [specific skills] and take on additional leadership responsibilities. Long-term, I aspire to [mention broader career objectives, such as leading a team or contributing to strategic initiatives]. Staying updated with industry trends and embracing opportunities for learning and growth are priorities for me. Joining a forward-thinking company like yours aligns with my goals, providing a platform to achieve both personal and organizational success.

将来のキャリアゴールは、絶え間ないプロフェッショナルの成長と革新的なプロジェクトへの影響力ある貢献です。短期的には、[具体的なスキル] を磨き、リーダーシップの責任を一層果たしていくことを目指しています。長期的には、[チームのリーダーシップや戦略的な取り組みへの貢献など、より広いキャリア目標を挙げる] ことを志しています。業界のトレンドを常に把握し、学びと成長の機会を積極的に受け入れることが重要です。貴社のような先進的な企業に参加することは、私の目標と調和し、個人と組織の成功の両方を達成するためのプラットフォームを提供してくれると確信しています。

 

【質問3】

Can you describe a challenging situation you faced while working in a team and how you handled it?

→チームで協力する中で直面した難題や、それに対する対処法はありますか?

【回答例3】

In a past team project, we faced a tight deadline and unexpected challenges. I promoted open communication, encouraging team members to share concerns and ideas. We collaboratively brainstormed solutions, adjusted tasks based on strengths, and streamlined processes by coordinating with other departments. This proactive approach helped us meet the deadline, enhancing team cohesion and problem-solving abilities.

以前のチームプロジェクトで、厳しい締め切りと予期せぬ課題に直面しました。私はオープンなコミュニケーションを奨励し、メンバーが懸念やアイデアを共有できるようにしました。協力して解決策を見つけ、強みに基づいてタスクを調整し、他部署との連携でプロセスを効率化しました。この積極的なアプローチが締め切りを達成し、チームの結束力と問題解決能力を向上させました。

Recommended Reverse Questions for English Interviews with Foreign Companies


The following are recommended reverse questions for an English interview with a foreign company.

【逆質問1】

Can you share more about the professional development opportunities provided to employees?

→社員に提供される職業の発展の機会について詳しく教えていただけますか?

【逆質問2】

How is employee performance typically evaluated, and are there regular feedback sessions?

→通常、従業員のパフォーマンスはどのように評価されるのでしょうか?また、フィードバックの機会は定期的にありますか?

【逆質問3】

Can you provide insights into the company's growth strategy and its vision for the future?

→企業の成長戦略や将来のビジョンについての洞察を教えていただけますか?

ただし、適切な逆質問は自身の状況や応募先によって異なるため、上記はあくまで参考程度にしておきましょう。

Tips for a successful interview with a foreign company


The following are tips for a successful interview with a foreign company.

  • Make sure you are well groomed
  • Show that you can be an immediate asset
  • Make eye contact
  • Answer questions in a straightforward and precise manner
  • Express your opinions openly

The following is an explanation of each of these tips.

 

Keep up appearances

The foundation of success in a foreign company is to maintain a clean and presentable appearance.

Although seemingly obvious, proper attire and a well-groomed haircut are ways to show your professionalism. Even if you are in a business casual environment, be respectful of others and make sure to create an appearance that builds trust.

 

Show that you can be an immediate asset.

It is common for foreign-affiliated firms to expect immediate results from you. Therefore, it is important to emphasize the skills and experience that appeal to them and show specific achievements.

Specifically, it is a good idea to convey "what kind of leadership you can provide in terms of projects" and "what kind of added value you can bring to the team.

In addition, emphasizing your flexibility and willingness to learn and adapt to change quickly will help you gain credibility as an immediate asset.

 

Make eye contact

Communication through eye contact is important in an interview with a foreign company. Making eye contact with the person you are interviewing conveys confidence and trust.

By making appropriate eye contact when communicating and answering questions, it is easier to build a good rapport with the other person.

 

Answer questions in a straightforward and precise manner.

Communication in a foreign company requires straightforward and precise answers. This is because giving straightforward and precise answers gives an impression of logic.

It is also important to state the conclusion of your answer first and avoid redundant expressions. It is also important to avoid verbose responses, as they can be misinterpreted and give the impression of illogic.

 

Convey your opinions with an open mind

In interviews at foreign companies, it is also important to express your opinions openly. This is because in the workplace at a foreign company, you are expected to clearly state your position and thoughts and participate in the exchange of opinions without hesitation.

By speaking and responding with an open mind, you will give the impression of being a confident person. However, it is also important to respect the opinions of others. Maintain a balance and communicate proactively.

What to do the day before an interview with a foreign company


The following is what you should do the day before your interview with a foreign company

  • Practice for the English interview
  • Correct and review your resume and English resume
  • Practice responding in English

This is explained below.

 

English Interview Practice

Communicating in English is essential for interviews with foreign companies. Therefore, it is important to practice aloud your answers to the common questions (introduced earlier) that will be used in the interview the day before.

Also, be prepared for questions about your background and skills, and be prepared to answer them smoothly by citing specific examples and projects.

 

Correcting and Reviewing Your Resume and English Resume

Your resume and English resume are the first documents the interviewer will see. The day before the interview, review these documents and consider the quality of expression and appropriateness of content.

In particular, it is important to check whether your resume "adequately reflects the points that appeal to you" and "clearly conveys the skills and experience required at a foreign company. In particular, make sure to check your English resume carefully, as there are many errors and incompleteness in the descriptions.

 

Practice responding in English

The day before the interview, practice verbally introducing yourself, your reasons for applying for the position, and explaining your work history in English. Pay attention to your pronunciation and choice of phrases so that you can communicate fluently and confidently.

Mock interviews and conversations with friends in English are also helpful. This will help ease your nerves and make you feel more relaxed going into the interview.

Summary


In this article, we introduced the "interview process for foreign-capitalized companies" and "common questions and sample answers in interviews at foreign-capitalized companies.

Interviews at gaishikei companies are considered more difficult than those at Japanese companies because of the English language requirements. Also, because of the high level of human resources required, the interview breakthrough rate is low.

If you want to get through the interview process, you should consult with a recruitment agent that specializes in helping people change jobs at foreign companies. By using an agent, you can not only improve your interview breakthrough rate, but also make your job search more efficient.

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