ENG ver.
Hello, this is Pooh-san.
Today, I would like to talk about my job.
Recently, while I was actively pursuing a career change, I received an offer from a foreign company the other day.
The motivation behind considering a job change was my interest in work involving interactions with overseas entities.
Since returning to Japan from abroad a few years ago, I have had very few opportunities to use English and have been living in an environment where I couldn’t establish connections with overseas individuals.
Every day, I had a growing sense of frustration, and my desire to relocate abroad became stronger and stronger.
I actually registered with overseas recruitment agencies and looked at job postings and attended interviews. However, obtaining a work visa in the desired country has become increasingly difficult recently, and I feel it is challenging at this point.
I became aware of my lack of skills
There was a company that I managed to pass the initial screening with and had the opportunity to attend an interview. However, it made me realize my shortcomings in English proficiency, accounting knowledge, and Excel skills.
During the interview, I was expected to provide short answers in English, but I stumbled and realized that my English proficiency had declined significantly.
Moreover, I had heard that the position required frequent use of Excel for data analysis, which made me believe that Excel skills were particularly important. However, since I didn’t have a good understanding of Excel myself, I couldn’t effectively showcase my abilities.
I realized that there are many areas in which I am inexperienced, but I believe that there must be something I can do, even if it’s just a small contribution.
Relearning Excel Skills
To start improving from something more manageable, I decided to focus on relearning Excel skills.
First, I watched instructional videos on Excel on YouTube to refresh my understanding of its basic functionalities.
There were many things that I hadn’t known before, and I was able to grasp the meaning of commonly used functions in practical work.
I found Mr. Akiyuki Kaneko’s videos particularly helpful. Thank you very much!
Furthermore, considering my newfound interest in Excel, my desire for systematic learning, and the goal of proving my Excel skills, I decided to pursue the Microsoft Excel certification exam (MOS).
I purchased MOS study materials and dedicated one month to obtaining both the MOS Excel Associate and Expert certifications.
Starting the Study for USCPA
Next, I considered pursuing the USCPA (Certified Public Accountant) qualification, which is recognized internationally, as my goal was to work abroad in the future.
While Japan has advanced accounting qualifications such as the certified tax accountant and certified public accountant, I believed it was crucial to possess an internationally recognized qualification.
Therefore, I attended an information session on the USCPA course offered by ABITAS and received an estimate of the costs involved.
Taking into account additional expenses such as examination fees to be covered personally, I found that the total cost would be approximately 1.2 to 1.3 million yen. However, since the course fees could be paid in installments, I decided to apply, thinking that I would manage somehow.
When the massive textbooks arrived, I felt a sense of despair, but I started studying diligently, little by little.
Starting Online English Conversation Lessons
Recognizing the need to improve my English skills, I decided to start online English conversation lessons.
While I had been learning English primarily through textbooks and exam preparation, I felt a weakness in my actual speaking and listening abilities.
I believed that using the language directly would be the most effective way to improve, so I began looking for opportunities to use English conveniently from home through online English conversation lessons.
I tried two online English conversation services in total.
The first one I tried was “Native Camp.”【 ネイティブキャンプ 】
Its notable features include:
- 24/7 availability for unlimited English conversation lessons.
- A roster of instructors from over 130 countries, including native speakers from the United States, the United Kingdom, as well as experienced instructors from the Philippines and Serbia.
- Offering the Callan Method, which claims to accelerate English learning four times faster than traditional methods, as the first officially affiliated online English conversation school.
- Providing over 14,000 diverse learning materials covering various genres such as kids, beginners, travel, daily news, business, Eiken (English proficiency test), and TOEIC® Listening & Reading tests.
With no restrictions on the number of lessons, it allows for easy and enjoyable English conversation practice.
One downside is that lessons with native speakers are available as a paid option. Without the option, I found that there were more instructors from the Philippines, but if it doesn’t bother you, it shouldn’t be a problem.
Compared to other services, Native Camp has relatively affordable fees and is recommended for those seeking ample opportunities to practice speaking English.
The second service I tried was【Cambly（キャンブリー）】 .
Its notable features include:
- 24/7 access to online English conversation lessons with native tutors via one click on a computer or smartphone.
- A pool of over 10,000 native tutors from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
- No reservations required, allowing for instant lessons whenever you feel like it.
- All lessons are recorded and can be reviewed later.
Cambly focuses on lessons with native tutors.
While Native Camp often had a conversational approach with the tutors, Cambly’s lessons felt more like being in an English classroom, with precise explanations and a higher level of instruction.
Of course, there is also room for free conversation, and the content is adjusted according to the learner’s level.
Cambly’s fees are higher, and they vary depending on the number of lessons, but it is recommended for those who want high-quality lessons with native tutors.
Direct message from a recruitment agent
I have started studying for the USCPA exam, and as I delve into the American accounting standards, I have developed a desire to be involved with international accounting standards in my professional career. Additionally, I have begun to consider that even if it may be challenging to gain experience abroad, I might be able to find a similar environment within a Japanese foreign-affiliated company.
Coincidentally, I received a direct message from a recruitment agent on LinkedIn. While I usually ignore such messages, this agent specialized in foreign-affiliated job placements and had personal experience working overseas. Intrigued, I decided to hear what they had to say.
We quickly arranged a meeting, and the first company they introduced me to turned out to be the one that offered me a position.
The job opportunity aligned with my desired work style, offered improved compensation, and would significantly enhance my quality of life. Furthermore, it provided an environment where I could apply the knowledge I am acquiring through studying for the USCPA. The team atmosphere was also fantastic, which further motivated my decision to make the career change.
I am truly excited about embarking on this new professional journey in a different environment.
The things I want to accomplish in the future
One of my aspirations going forward is to become a professional in the field of accounting who can work overseas.
Through my new position, I aim to achieve the following three goals:
- Gain practical accounting experience in an English-speaking environment.
- Improve my communication skills in English.
- Obtain the USCPA license.
By enhancing my abilities, I aim to expand my future options. I have already been working towards these goals, and I believe it is important to maintain a state where I can actively pursue them whenever I desire.
To work overseas again, it is crucial to have strong communication skills in English and practical experience in the desired field. It is also important to ensure sufficient time and financial flexibility for hobbies and continuous learning.
While addressing my current weaknesses and areas for improvement, I want to continue challenging myself and lead a flexible and fulfilling life.
Although my recent job change happened quickly, I believe it was beneficial because I was able to promptly identify what I lacked and take immediate action.
I enjoy the process of accumulating small actions, as it leads to new opportunities and events, resembling the progression of events in a role-playing game.
Taking immediate action will remain important to me in the future.
I will continue to do my best.
Thank you.
Pooh
JPN ver.
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