Interning at Rakuten in Tokyo: Insights into a Dynamic Business Environment
Rakuten, a leading Japanese e-commerce and internet company, offers a variety of internship opportunities primarily in Tokyo. If you're considering interning with Rakuten, this article will provide a detailed overview of what the experience entails, from the work environment to daily life in the city.
Working at Rakuten
Company Culture
Rakuten fosters a vibrant and innovative work environment that encourages creativity and collaboration. The company places a strong emphasis on diversity, making it a welcoming place for individuals with unique perspectives. The work pace is often described as fast and dynamic, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and collective problem-solving.
Language
English is predominantly used for communication in many teams. However, knowing some Japanese can be advantageous, particularly for social interactions or understanding local market nuances. While not mandatory, being conversant in Japanese can significantly enhance your experience and help you better understand the nuances of the local business climate.
Work Hours
Interns usually follow a standard 5-day workweek schedule, similar to that of full-time employees. However, the flexibility of the schedule can vary depending on the team and the workload. You can expect a typical workday of 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with occasional additional hours during busy periods.
Professional Development
Rakuten provides ample opportunities for professional growth. Interns are often mentored by experienced professionals and gain valuable on-the-job training. These experiences are crucial for developing skills and building networks within the industry. The combination of hands-on projects and mentorship can be highly beneficial for your career progression.
Life as an Intern in Tokyo
Responsibilities
Interns at Rakuten are typically assigned specific projects or tasks that contribute to the company's goals. You'll have the opportunity to work closely with full-time employees, gaining hands-on experience and learning valuable skills. This hands-on approach is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of the business.
Social Activities
Rakuten regularly organizes social events and team-building activities that help interns integrate into the company culture. These events not only foster camaraderie but also provide a sense of belonging and community. Participating in these activities can significantly enhance your experience and build lasting relationships.
Living in Tokyo
Tokyo is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, excellent public transportation, and a wide variety of food options. However, living costs can be high, making budgeting essential. Despite these challenges, the city offers numerous amenities that cater to expatriates and interns.
Accommodation
In 2014, Rakuten provided interns with accommodation at a long-term stay hotel with maid services, ensuring a comfortable living environment. Since then, the company has moved to a different location. However, it's unlikely that Rakuten would offer shabby housing to its interns, prioritizing a positive and professional living experience.
Personal Experiences and Observations
My own experience as an intern in 2014 was shaped by a supportive and engaging work environment. I recall that the training program consisted of a brief orientation and introductions by various key figures in the company. There wasn't an extensive formal training program, but the day-to-day interactions and hands-on experience were more than enough to get me started.
Regarding dress codes, I remember not having a strict dress code, but we did dress professionally, leaning towards business casual. This was consistent across teams, including the engineering department, where my peers also followed a similar dress code. It's important to note that while it's not a tech firm with Silicon Valley corporate culture, Rakuten values formality and professionalism.
Conclusion
Interning at Rakuten in Tokyo can be a highly rewarding experience. It provides valuable insights into a global company, fostering both professional and personal development. The combination of meaningful projects, supportive training, and a dynamic work environment can leave a lasting positive impact on your career. If you're looking to intern at Rakuten, the experience is likely to be both challenging and rewarding.