One of the biggest new markets in Asia is training. As companies begin to realize that they must start to think globally they are also realizing that there is a huge lack of human resources out there that fit their expanding needs. Needs for line managers and staff who can not only work in bilingual and bicultural environments but are also capable of handling the inevitable surprises that any multinational firm will be facing as the world and the market continues to change.
Training is now being offered by large firms, schools, even individual consultants. The range of options covers specific skills like how to make a presentation on PowerPoint to how to be more creative in your office. The hardest question to answer though is which area to concentrate on because nobody has the time to cover them all. The training needs of an individual seeking to better their position whether it is in their current company or by switching to a different firm tend to have some common ground.
One of the more obvious areas is language. If you are monolingual and looking for an opportunity to break into the international job market it is possible, but your career will be limited by your lack of ability to communicate directly. There are any number of schools and classes available for Japanese or English depending on your need. Don’t waste too much time deciding though, just get started and stick to it. Set yourself a goal as well of passing one of the appropriate proficiency exams as that will give you an objective basis to explain your skill level.
Computer skills are often assumed by companies these days. Most employers would be surprised if you did not have them. If you can work your way through a word processor and a spreadsheet then you are probably OK. However, if you cannot, then it is time to sign up for a class. These take only a few days and you will be surprised at how quickly you can pick up enough to get you going in most jobs.
While training can cover a lot of shortcomings on your resume there are also a few traits that are harder to learn in a school. Attitude and cultural fit are almost as important as your technical skills to a multinational firm. When you are being interviewed companies will be looking for self-confidence and a strong enthusiasm for the work and industry you are applying for. These two traits tell a company two very important things about you: 1) You believe in their business and think that there is a future for the company. 2) You believe in yourself.
