If you’re a foreigner looking for part-time or full-time work in Japan—especially in restaurants, convenience stores, or service jobs—knowing a few key Japanese phrases can make a big difference in your interview.
Even if your Japanese isn’t perfect, showing that you can express respect, flexibility, and a willingness to work hard will give you an edge.

Here are 4 essential Japanese phrases you can use in job interviews to leave a good impression.

1️⃣ よろしくお願いします (Yoroshiku onegaishimasu) – “I look forward to working with you.”

When to use:
This is a polite and respectful phrase used at the start or end of an interview. It shows good manners, humility, and willingness to cooperate with the team.
It’s not just “nice to meet you” — in an interview setting, it expresses that you are ready and willing to contribute.

Example sentence:

面接の機会をいただき、ありがとうございます。よろしくお願いします。
“Thank you for this interview opportunity. I look forward to working with you.”

💡 Tip: In interviews, combine it with a short thank-you message to make it sound more professional. Say it clearly and bow slightly to show sincerity.

2️⃣ 週末も働けます (Shūmatsu mo hatarakemasu) – “I can work on weekends.”

When to use:
Weekend availability is a big plus for restaurant and service jobs in Japan. Saturdays and Sundays are usually the busiest days, so employers value staff who can work then. Adding that you can do night shifts (夜のシフト) will make you even more attractive as a candidate.

Example sentence:

土日も働けます。夜のシフトも大丈夫です。
“I can work on weekends, and night shifts are also fine.”

💡 Tip: Use 働けます when stating your ability to work. You can also add 大丈夫です (“it’s okay”) for a softer tone, especially when responding to a direct question about your availability.

3️⃣ がんばります (Ganbarimasu) – “I’ll do my best.”

When to use:
This phrase expresses motivation and readiness to work hard—qualities Japanese employers value highly. It’s especially useful if you’re applying for a job that may require learning new skills or adapting to a busy environment.

Example sentence:

覚えることが多いですが、がんばります。
“There’s a lot to learn, but I’ll do my best.”

💡 Tip: Say this with confidence and a smile—it shows you’re willing to take on challenges. If you’ve had similar experience before, mention it right after to strengthen your point.

4️⃣ ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu) – “Thank you very much.”

When to use:
Gratitude is key in Japanese culture, and interviews are no exception. Use this when the interviewer gives you information, explains the job, or at the very end before you leave. It shows politeness and appreciation for their time.

Example sentence:

本日はありがとうございました。
“Thank you very much for today.”

💡 Tip: In interviews, always pair this phrase with a bow. You can also repeat it when leaving the interview room to make a strong final impression.

Final Advice:

Even if your Japanese isn’t perfect, using short, polite phrases like these shows effort and respect—qualities Japanese employers appreciate. Practice saying them clearly and naturally before your interview, and remember that your tone, posture, and facial expression matter just as much as the words.