Part-Time Job Interview in Japan: Common Questions and How to Answer
After your rirekisho comes the interview. The questions arubaito managers actually ask — availability, reason for applying, Japanese level — with honest, simple ways to answer in Japanese.
A part-time interview in Japan is usually short, friendly, and practical. The manager mainly wants to know that you are reliable, available when they need you, and easy to work with. You do not need perfect Japanese — clear, honest answers in polite language go a long way. Here are the questions that come up almost every time.
“When can you work?” (シフト)
This is the most important question for arubaito. Know your real availability before you go, and answer concretely: 「平日は17時以降、土日は終日働けます。週4日希望です。」 Match what you wrote in your shift grid. If you are a student, be ready to mention the 28-hour limit.
“Why did you apply here?” (志望動機)
A short, honest reason is fine — proximity, interest in the work, wanting to improve your Japanese. 「家から近く、長く続けられると思い応募しました。」 If you prepared a written 志望動機, just say it naturally rather than reciting it word for word.
“How is your Japanese?”
Answer plainly and positively: 「日常会話は問題ありません。難しい言葉はまだ勉強中です。」 Honesty here builds trust; overstating it backfires on day one. See JLPT levels and what they mean.
Other common questions
- いつから働けますか — when can you start? Give a date.
- 通勤時間は — how long is your commute? Closer is better for shift work.
- 他にアルバイトをしていますか — do you have other jobs? (Relevant to the 28-hour limit.)
- 長く続けられますか — can you stay long-term? Managers value continuity.
Etiquette on the day
- Arrive 5–10 minutes early, dressed neatly and conservatively.
- Bring your printed rirekisho in a clear file inside a white envelope, even if you emailed it.
- Greet with 「本日はよろしくお願いいたします」 and close with 「ありがとうございました」.
- Turn your phone off, not just silent.
Walk in prepared by getting the resume right first — build it in the editor, and if you have not applied yet, our phone script covers the call before the interview.