The Custom of Handwriting Resumes (Rirekisho) in Japan

“A handwritten CV? What century are we living in?” you might wonder. Yet in Japan, when applying for a job, a fountain pen carefully chosen words and flawless handwriting can be just as important as experience! Despite the digitalization of modern job applications, Japan’s deeply rooted tradition remains relevant. Why?

In Japan, the preference for handwritten CVs for certain companies and positions signifies far more than just a piece of paper. It reflects cultural values that have endured for centuries.

• Sign of Care and Commitment: Preparing a rirekisho by hand is a meticulous process requiring precision and error-free execution. This is seen as a tangible demonstration of the applicant’s respect and dedication toward the position and the company. For them, this is not merely a task but a ritual of commitment. In Japanese culture, the value placed on doing a job to the best of one’s ability is clearly evident in this act.

• Mirror of Character and Precision: The neatness legibility and correct formation of characters especially complex Kanji reflect the applicant’s attention to detail patience and overall meticulousness. Good handwriting is not only aesthetic but also offers clues about the applicant’s disciplined nature.

• Commitment to Tradition: Japanese society is deeply rooted in tradition. In established and conservative companies this practice continues as a symbol of loyalty to time-honored methods and stability. Slow change is often viewed here as a positive attribute.

• Personal Touch and Sincerity: Unlike a standard computer-generated document a handwritten rirekisho presents the applicant’s personal touch. This enables the employer to establish a more personal and sincere connection with the candidate. In the digital age the value of personal communication may be most apparent here.

Writing a rirekisho is not merely about handwriting; it follows specific rules and formats. In Japan special pre-printed rirekisho forms are commonly available at stationery stores or online. These forms typically include the following sections:

• Personal Information: Name surname date of birth gender and contact details.
• Educational Background: All educational institutions attended from elementary school to the most recently completed degree listed in chronological order.
• Work Experience: Previous employers positions held duration of employment and key responsibilities.
• Licenses and Certifications: All professional certifications particularly those related to job qualifications.
• Motivation (志望動機 – Shibō Dōki): This section is one of the most important as it explains why the applicant wants to work for the company how they will contribute and what their career goals are. This part is usually handwritten and reflects the applicant’s personality.
• Hobbies and Skills: Leisure activities and special abilities such as foreign language proficiency.
• References: References are not typically requested on the form itself but may be required during the interview stage.

Additionally great importance is placed on calligraphy and neat handwriting. Mistakes are unacceptable; therefore applicants often draft their responses first and then carefully transcribe the final version onto the form.

^{Example of a Rirekisho (Generated by Artificial Intelligence)}

In contrast the job application process in Türkiye is markedly different from that in Japan.

• Keeping Pace with the Digital Age: In Türkiye CVs are overwhelmingly prepared and submitted in digital format. PDF is the most common format and professional templates or online CV builders are widely used. Speed and accessibility are prioritized.

• Content-Centric and Professional Design: In Türkiye the content—work experience skills and achievements—is paramount. While a professional and legible layout is expected there is virtually no expectation that a CV be handwritten.

• Limited Personal Information: Due to data protection laws such as GDPR personal details such as date of birth or marital status are increasingly omitted from CVs in Türkiye and the West whereas such information remains standard in Japanese rirekisho.

Today even in Japan computer-generated CVs are gaining increasing acceptance particularly in international companies and sectors focused on technology and entrepreneurship. However the expectation for handwritten rirekisho persists in traditional Japanese companies and certain positions. This requires applicants to thoroughly research the culture and expectations of the company they are applying to.

The tradition of handwritten CVs in Japan is more than filling out an application form—it is a reflection of cultural values patience precision and dedication. This practice once again reminds us how valuable each culture’s unique dynamics remain even in an increasingly globalized world.