I mentioned last week that in getting an apartment, you don't necessarily need a Hanko to complete your contract. This is because instead of a hanko you may be able to register your signature at your embassy and thus you can give the realtor a certificate of proof of your signature instead. Thus, you really can 'sign' the contract...

A continuing problem for foreign employees newly arrived in Japan is the issue of getting accommodation. If you're an expatriate and can afford it, of course there are a number of foreigner-specific apartment complex chains in Tokyo such as Homat and Mori. But if you're on more of a budget, then what are the options?...

I often get letters from foreigners working inside conservative Japanese companies, many of which are famous brands, telling me how sick they are of watching the malaise. Younger talent gets wasted, senior managers are incompetent, and foreigners are treated as curiosities or temporary guests rather than...

Looking back on last week's column, I realize that the title "Firing an Employee" sounds rather heartless. To be honest, it's the one part of running a business that I really dislike, so I always try to find other ways to solve problems before even thinking about firing an employee. However, there are times when there is no other option. Luckily, being in Japan, the soft...