TOKYO — September is a time for personal reflection and resolutions as days shorten and the weather gets cooler, which makes it the ideal time for job seekers to update their resumes. As a bonus, autumn is also one of the peak hiring times in Japan.
In a timely move, GaijinPot Jobs, a leading English-language job board in Japan, has released a new responsive interface for those on the job hunt this season. The redesign allows people to use a mobile device to search for and apply to jobs while they are on the go.
Registered users can browse around 400 available positions by logging on with just their phone or tablet. Jobs across a multitude of industries are represented, including those in teaching, IT development, hospitality, accounting and finance, translation and recruitment.
“This means users looking for new jobs or a change of career can now search during their morning commute,” says Kevin Holdaway, sales director for GPlusMedia, the company behind GaijinPot Jobs. “They can then fill out their profiles, create or edit multiple resumes and write cover letters throughout the day or even on the train ride home — whenever they have the chance — without even opening their computer.”
Created with an eye to helping applicants be more effective in their job searches, Holdaway says that the new interface will prompt users to custom tailor their profiles and experience.
“Now users can craft that all-important, attention-grabbing resume title and even draft a cover letter or snap a profile photo using their mobile device.” says Holdaway. “Remember — you have to get that interview before you land that dream gig!”
A new “Step Up System” encourages job candidates to fill out their education and employment histories, credentials, certificates and social media information so potential employers get a more comprehensive view of who they are.
If they haven’t provided enough information, then a series of screen tips will pop up. Once the minimum requirements are met, an “Essentials” badge is unlocked allowing them to start applying. As they move on with their job search, prompts to upgrade their profile and achieve new badges such as “Employer friendly,” “Detailed” and “Social” will appear. The goal is to make the resumes more appealing to prospective recruiters and hiring managers.
The site design is live now. Users can simply visit GaijinPot Jobs to log in and update their resume. First-time visitors will need to register.
“New users can register quickly and easily,” adds Holdaway. “They can create a resume in under five minutes and start looking for their next new job immediately!”
For more information, visit the GaijinPot Jobs site and to keep up to date on the site’s latest developments, sign up to GaijinPot’s Job Mail.