TOKYO — Businesses in Japan have initiated employment evaluations starting June 1 for graduates set to complete their universities in the spring of 2027. Certain companies are ceasing employee transfers unless approved by the employees themselves. They aim for this measure to assist in retaining skilled staff.
Read the complete English article
Please provide the original Japanese article so I can assist you with the paraphrase.
Shifts in work environments and relocation policies have become significant not just for employees, but also for students seeking employment opportunities.
At the headquarters of Daiichi Life Insurance Company in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, students attended job interviews on June 1. There was no specific attire required. Some students dressed in formal wear, while others opted for casual shoes.
The organization will discontinue "transfers without permission" for administrative positions starting in fiscal 2027. It mentioned that job applications have increased approximately 20% compared to the previous year. Several students indicated that this policy adjustment was a factor in their decision to apply.
Sota Hosokawa, 21, a final-year student at Yokohama National University, stated, "I aim to embrace opportunities across the country while I am still young. However, in the years ahead, I might require more time for my family. I prefer to remain adaptable, as I also wish to continue progressing in my professional life."
Akiko Nagaya, who leads recruitment at Daiichi Life Group Inc., stated, "The finance sector has traditionally been seen as one that moves employees across the country. However, we must evolve to allow individuals to define their own career journeys."
Several businesses are modifying their transfer policies due to concerns that unnecessary relocations cause employees to quit, and complicate the recruitment process.
Daido Life Insurance Co. halted employee transfers without staff consent in April 2026 for those in managerial positions. These employees have the option to relocate across over 100 locations within Japan. The firm requested employees' preferred destinations. During the April restructuring, over 90% of career path workers were assigned one of their top three choices. Employees who actually relocating could receive as much as 150,000 yen.
Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co. introduced a new policy in fiscal year 2026. Employees can now continue working in the prefecture of their choice. The company aims to eliminate unnecessary job rotations and allow staff to shape their own professional journeys.
Additionally, in April 2026, Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Company allowed employees to decide whether they would agree to job rotations. Some staff members mentioned that this policy simplifies future planning.
(Akihiro Kawakami's Japanese version, Tokyo City News Department)
Vocabulary
move: to be relocated from one location to another by an organization
assessment: an evaluation or examination used to select individuals
consent: agreement to something
uses: documents or digital applications submitted to apply for employment
financial: about money
sector: a part of the economy, such as automobiles or finance
Management path: a program designed for aspiring leaders
reassign: a shift in roles or locations
