Hi everyone, I’d like some advice about switching careers in Japan. I’m 24, Indonesian, currently working at a Kumiai where I mostly handle communication and support for technical trainees (jisshusei). The job has become increasingly stressful, and I’m hoping to move into a more stable and reputable company with clearer career growth, something like hospitality, customer support, or administrative work that uses language skills.
My Japanese level is around N3–N2, and I can speak English pretty well, but I don’t have a TOEIC score. I’m considering taking TOEIC soon and aiming for around 700–800, but I’m not sure how much this would actually impact my chances. Some people say TOEIC is just a formality, others say companies really care about it, so I’m a bit confused.
For those who have changed careers or work in hiring:
Does having a solid TOEIC score really make a difference when trying to move into a better company in Japan?
And how realistic is it to switch from a Kumiai background into a more corporate role?
Any honest advice or experience would be really appreciated. Thanks!
by KuudereTan