On the latest episode of the podcast we are thrilled to be able to welcome back our very first guest, Hideo Goto. Hideo is the President of Schick Japan and has more than 20 years experience in the health and beauty industry, and a strong track record of driving results and being incredibly innovative in his approach. If you are an APAC business leader in Japan looking to innovate in a traditionally risk averse business culture, listen to this episode to learn how to encourage a fearlessly innovative culture in your company.In this episode you will hear:Advice for APAC leaders working in JapanHow to be innovative in a traditionally risk averse countryStrategies Hideo employs to attract talent in a challenging marketSome of the most important lessons Hideo has learned from his decades of successful and innovative business leadershipAbout Hideo Goto:Hideo Goto has been the President and Representative Director of Schick Japan since August 2022. Hideo has more than 20 years of experience in the health and beauty industry, and a strong track record of driving results.  He started his career at Johnson & Johnson in 1996 in sales and marketing.  In 2005, he joined L’Oreal and spent 11 years there, where he turned around several businesses and scaled the growth.  He held various leadership positions throughout his tenure including GM of Active Cosmetics Division in Japan, GM of Consumer Product Division in Taiwan, and GM of Professional Product Division in Japan. Hideo Goto was promoted to Country General Manager of Henkel Beauty Care Japan and Korea in 2021 having joined Henkel Beauty Care in 2017 as GM of the Professional Division.Hideo earned an MBA from Thunderbird School of Global Management in the U.S. in 2003 and a BBA from Meiji University in 1996Connect with Hideo Goto:Schick Japan website: https://schick.jp/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hideo-goto-8854b4ba/Connect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ “Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co. Support independent musicians and artists.Mentioned in this episode:2024 Salary Guide

This week on the podcast we switch things up and have guest host Simon Jelfs, Managing Director of FocusCore Japan, interviews Dr. David Sweet to find out what makes him tick, in business and in life. David is originally from Denver, Colorado with 25 years recruitment experience in Japan, all of it in leadership roles. He established FocusCore Japan in 2011. He's a father of two, a keen runner, a writer, and an ukulele player. Listen to the episode to learn more about how David manages to be so proactive and motivated in business and in life, and gain some invaluable insight into the Japanese labor market and recruitment landscape. In this episode you will hear:About David’s love of running marathons and his plans to run the Barcelona marathonHow David manages to stay so proactive and motivated in business and life in generalHow international business leaders view the Japanese marketDavid’s advice to APAC leaders looking to improve recruitment performance in JapanAbout the ageless leadership skills that stand the test of timeAbout Simon Jelfs:​Simon is from the UK and has over 20 years accounting and finance recruitment experience in Tokyo.  He is the Managing Director of Focus Core which focuses on providing executive search in Japan.About David Sweet:David Sweet is the founder and CEO of FocusCore Group.  For the past 25 years, he has helped companies hire the best executive talent in Tokyo.  He is also a certified executive coach and  author of Sweet Success, Sweet Sales, Recruit! Becoming the Top-Biller, as well as having been interviewed for the book, “Facebook & LinkedIn 対応履歴書いらずのソーシャルメディア転職術” for his expertise in using Social Networking for recruitment in Japan. He also is a published poet, including Gus (illustrated by Jennifer Shinkai),  Split Infinity Forward, and Pop Rocks. He holds a Ph.D. in Leadership Development and a M.A. in Communications from Regis University in Denver, Colorado. Connect with Simon Jelfs:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonjelfsConnect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: :https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ “Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co. Support independent musicians and artists.Mentioned in this episode:2024 Salary Guide

The automotive industry is currently experiencing a lot of change and innovation globally with, among other things, the increased development and adoption of electric cars and autonomous vehicles. Leaders in this industry are increasingly having to be agile and innovative as well. This week we talk to one such agile leader, Magnus Hansson, CEO/Representative Director of Jaguar Land Rover Japan. In the episode Magnus shares with us some of the innovations and challenges currently being experienced by the automotive industry in Japan, and globally. He also shares with us some insights gleaned from his decades of leadership experience.In this episode you will hear:About the similarities and differences between Japanese and Swedish leadership stylesAbout exciting innovations within the automotive industrySome of the big challenges facing automotive companies todayAbout recruitment strategies being utilized by Jaguar Land Rover JapanHow Jaguar Land Rover Japan is pursuing diversity as a companyMagnus’ insights into being a business leader in JapanAbout Magnus:Magnus Hansson has been the CEO/Representative Director of Jaguar Land Rover Japan since 2013. Born in Sweden, Hansson began his career with Saab in 2000. Before arriving in Japan, he worked in Sweden, Canada and Hong Kong. Magnus is an Internationally schooled and experienced Automotive Executive with excellent strategic, analytical, organizational, and creative abilities. He has proven and leading skills in general management, planning, product, marketing, aftersales and sales operations at both global & national levels. Connect with Magnus:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/magnus-hansson-aab5b71Connect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: :https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ “Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co. Support independent musicians and artists.Mentioned in this episode:2024 Salary Guide

This week on the podcast we delve into Web3 technology with Steve Pang. Steve is an innovative disruptor, entrepreneur, author, coach, speaker, and was my mentor when I started FocusCore, 13 years ago. Steve is also the co-founder of the social network disruptor, ZAG Network and NFT project, PSYOP ZOMBIES. If you have been hearing a lot about NFTs, AI and Web3 technologies and want to know how they might apply to your business, recruitment or professional online networking, this will be a valuable discussion to sit in on.In this episode you will hear:How Steve went from working in the recruitment industry to the Web3 spaceAbout Steve’s social network disruptor ZAG Network and how it is disrupting the social media landscapeWhat data sovereignty is and why it is importantHow ZAG Network empowers users to monetize their own dataThe different ways Web3 technologies are being utilized in recruitmentThings mentioned in the episode:NFT project PSYOP ZOMBIES: www.psyopzombies.comZAG Network: www.zag.networkAbout Steve: A Web3 native since 2017, Co-founder of the social network disruptor, ZAG NETWORK (www.zag.network) and a fun NFT project, PSYOP ZOMBIES (www.psyopzombies.com) linked to ZAG Network, a revolutionary SocialFi Network For Professionals. With a multifaceted background that spans leadership, career advising, coaching, vlogging, and authorship  Having spent over two decades as a seasoned business leader in executive search and recruitment across the dynamic Asia Pacific region. With 8 years of working experience and living in Australia, 5 years in Japan, and 15 plus years in Singapore, Steve's understanding of diverse markets and cultures across Asia Pacific makes him stand out from the pack  As a co-founder and advisor on Web3 ventures since 2017, Steve has been actively engaged in technology and non-tech projects. His passion for the transformative potential of Web3 technology and the decentralized movement is evident, making him a true "Web3 Degen" Just like a mullet haircut, Steve is business in the front, party in the back!  Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Steve is a natural and direct communicator. As an author, Steve has penned two highly regarded books: "Everything You Wish To Ask A Headhunter" and "ZAG's Expert Guide to Personal Branding & Job Seeking." These literary accomplishments further showcase his dedication to empowering individuals to navigate their professional paths with confidence and success. Above all, Steve is fueled by a profound belief in the innate entrepreneurial spirit within every human. To him, entrepreneurship isn't merely about starting companies but rather the instinct to create, shape destinies, and take control of one's life.  ZAG Network launched 24 August 2023, the world eagerly awaits the impact of this Web3 SocialFi Network For Professionals. With a dynamic mix of high energy passion, innovation, and an unyielding commitment to personal and professional growth, Steve continues to shape the future while inspiring others to do the same.  Connect with Steve:ZAG Network: www.zag.networkSign up for an account on ZAG Network and we are instantly connected!LinkedIn :

This week I am excited to turn the podcasting tables on my guest Catherine O’Connell, who is host and cohost of two fantastic podcasts; Lawyer On Air and Jandals in Japan. If you haven’t listened to those two podcasts I highly recommend them both! Catherine is the principal and founder of her boutique commercial law firm based in Tokyo, Catherine O'Connell Law. She is the first foreign female to set up her own law practice in Tokyo and won Tokyo Foreign Lawyer of the Year Award in 2022, Boutique Law Firm of the Year Award in 2023, and is the recipient of the Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2020. One of Catherine’s missions in life is to change the boardrooms of traditional Japan from the inside, sharing her lived experience through board coaching programs to demystify and open pathways for people to access and attain roles on Japanese corporate boards.In this episode you will hear:How Catherine went from being a tour guide in New Zealand to studying law and working as a foreign lawyer in JapanWhat motivated Catherine to set up Catherine O’Connell Law, her own law firm in TokyoAbout the lack of diversity in terms of board governance in JapanWhat Japanese companies can do now to diversify their boardsWhat women leaders can do to open boardroom doors for themselves and othersThings mentioned in the episode:Statistical Information about female board members in Japan: https://www.nikkei.co.jp/nikkeiinfo/en/global_services/nikkei-bp/female-board-member-survey-which-japanese-company-has-the-highest-percentage-of-female-board-members.htmlAbout Catherine O’Connell:Catherine O’Connell is Principal & Founder of her boutique commercial law firm based in Tokyo, Catherine O’Connell Law. She is the first foreign female to set up her own law practice in Tokyo. She won Boutique Law Firm of the Year Award 2023 and Foreign Lawyer of the Year Award 2022 and is the recipient of the Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2020.Significantly, Catherine has been appointed in June 2023 as an Independent Audit & Supervisory Board Member of TOYOTA Motor Corporation. In June 2022 she was appointed as Outside Audit & Supervisory Board member of FUJITSU Limited. Through both of these appointments she has become the first non-Japanese female in Japanese corporate history to serve in this role on any Japanese Board. She is also Statutory Auditor on ASX-listed Japan subsidiary of CSL Behring.Catherine presides as Vice-Chair of the Australian & New Zealand Chamber of Commerce of Japan, is co-Chair of the Legal Services & IP Committee of the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan and is immediate Past President of NPO, Women in Law Japan (2021-2023).Prior to launching her law practice in 2018, Catherine was Head of Legal and APAC Regional Legal Counsel for Molex Japan LLC. She held senior In-House Legal Counsel positions Panasonic, Olympus and Mitsubishi Motors, and has extensive private practice experience at Hogan Lovells (Tokyo and London) and Anderson Lloyd (New Zealand).Catherine hosts the award-winning “Lawyer on Air” Podcast sharing inspirational stories about women working in the law in Japan and she co-hosts the “Jandals in Japan” podcast about successful New Zealand business in Japan. Connect with Catherine O’Connell:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Website:

Welcome back to the FocusCore podcast. We are excited to bring you another year of insightful and inspirational guests, as well as timely and topical solo episodes. This week we have our first guest of 2024, Ashley Harvey. Ashley is a C-Suite leader, with a 25-year international career beginning in sales and expanding out into marketing, branding, partnerships, hospitality, destination management and leadership. Ashley has a wealth of knowledge to share with us about being a business leader globally and in Japan specifically. This discussion is a master class in how to thrive as a new business leader navigating the unique benefits and challenges of the Japanese market.In this episode you will hear:How the Japanese market differs to other international markets and why it has been a good fit for AshleyAdvice for business leaders looking to expand their reach in JapanThe importance of having a strong employee acquisition strategyHow flexibility and nimbleness as a leader helps weather unforeseen challenges, like COVIDThe importance of creating an environment where open and honest communication can thriveAbout Ashley Harvey:Ashley Harvey is a C-Suite leader, with a 25-year international career which brings the benefits of a breadth of knowledge, diverse experience and interdisciplinary thinking to an ever increasingly complicated business landscape.Building from a sales background, Ashley’s career grew to build a depth of experience in marketing, branding, partnerships, hospitality, destination management and leadership.He successfully built & led marketing strategies, tactics and teams in Singapore, Hong Kong and Japan, as well as in the UK.Past roles and clients include VisitBritain, Go Central Japan, Brand USA, Tourism Switzerland, a giga project in Saudi Arabia, Saudi Tourism Authority, NYC & Partners, Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Shangri-La Hotels, Hilton, Dusit Thani Group, Andaru Niseko, and, Marriott. His MBA (2005) comes from the University of Leicester, UK. In 2022 he completed the Mini MBA Marketing from Marketing Week.Connect with Ashley Harvey:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyjohnharvey/Connect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: :https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ “Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co. Support independent musicians and artists.Mentioned in this episode:2024 Salary Guide

Welcome to the Year of the Dragon, and to another episode of the FocusCore podcast.  In this first episode of 2024, David Sweet reflects on the last year for FocusCore. He discusses some highlights and some insights into what the organization has seen happen over 2023. David also predicts what he thinks might happen in 2024 in the recruitment and talent acquisition landscape in Japan. In this episode you will hear:About our FOCUS search methodology for APAC leaders seeking top tier talent in the Japanese marketHow more companies are wanting employees to go back to working in the office, and how that might conflict with employees preferences for hybrid work models About an increased focus on diversity and inclusion in JapanWhy employer branding will be increasingly important in 2024More of David’s predictions for 2024!Connect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: :https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ "Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co. Support independent musicians and artists.Mentioned in this episode:2024 Salary Guide

This week we revisit an episode of the podcast that originally aired on March 15th 2022. Do you want a better way to hire employees that will save you time, money and ensure you are hiring the best candidate to join your team? In the latest episode of the FocusCore podcast, host Dr. David Sweet takes you through a proven and tested hiring method and shares a simple five-step strategy to hire the A-player candidate.Introducing you to Topgrading, a recruitment methodology proven effective by some of the best companies in the world including General Electric and Barclays. In this episode you will hear: • How to engage your HR and executives to hire A-Players • How to document and create scorecards • Learn the easy, time-saving technique for screening candidates  • Why are reference checks so important • The simple process and the questions to ask  These five steps are the bare bones of creating a recruitment process for your organization that our clients say attracts and retains the top talent.Utilizing topgrading as a method to hire talent is the best way to sort through B and C talent and find the A-grade candidate that you want to join your organization and will ultimately save you time, money, energy, and most importantly, save you from making a hiring mistake.  If you would like samples of a scorecard, please feel free to email me at david.sweet@focuscoregroup.com.Connect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: :https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co. Support independent musicians and artists.Mentioned in this episode:2024 Salary Guide

This week on the podcast we revisit an episode that originally aired on 15th March 2023. Love or hate them, great Human Resources professionals are worth their weight in gold to organizations when you have the right person. Without them, businesses struggle to retain and attract top talent, navigate compliance and legal labor laws, and create an inclusive company culture. In Japan, hiring the right HR director is absolutely critical for successful businesses, not least because they need to understand the local landscape due to a unique market with its own cultural norms, its own values, and its own unique labor laws. But what else do you need to consider when hiring HR leaders in Japan? David Sweet shares his top must-haves when hiring an HR director in Japan.David covers:Knowledge and deep understanding of Japanese Labour laws Ability to foster positive stakeholder relations Experience in recruitment and retaining talent Established networks If you need help with your recruitment needs in Japan, please get in touch with FocusCore Japan and we’ll be happy to assist. We specialize strongly in HR directors and other C- Suite recruitments, specifically around country managers, CFOs, supply chain directors, and marketing directors.Connect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ Are you enjoying the FocusCore Podcast? Please take a few minutes and leave a rating and a review on Apple Podcasts! Scroll down the show page, select leave a rating, and tap ‘Write a review’. The FocusCore Podcast is hosted by David Sweet and produced by Podlaunch with Jayne. Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co and check out his new album, FIFTY​/​50. https://music.cdavisshannon.com/album/fifty-50-2 Support independent musicians and artists.Mentioned in this episode:2024 Salary Guide

This week we revisit an episode of the podcast about navigating the Japanese business landscape that aired on 26th May 2023.Are you doing business in Japan, or would like to, and feel like you could use some guidance on how to maximize your time and effort? If you are an APAC or global business leader, and looking to navigate the business landscape in Japan and build successful, long-term partnerships with Japanese companies, it's essential to approach business in Japan with a mindset of respect, cultural sensitivity, and a willingness to adapt to local customs and practices. In this episode I discuss ten factors that I’ve found incredibly important to keep in mind for APAC and global business leaders looking to do business in Japan.In this episode you will hear:About Japan’s unique culture and business practicesHow important long-term business relationships are in JapanThe expectations placed on business leaders in Japan including strong work ethic, respect for hierarchy and seniorityAbout the importance Japanese companies place on consensus decision-makingConnect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ Are you enjoying the FocusCore Podcast? Please take a few minutes and leave a rating and a review on Apple Podcasts! Scroll down the show page, select leave a rating, and tap ‘Write a review’. The FocusCore Podcast is hosted by David Sweet and produced by Podlaunch with Jayne. Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co and check out his new album, FIFTY​/​50. https://music.cdavisshannon.com/album/fifty-50-2 Support independent musicians and artists.Mentioned in this episode:2024 Salary Guide

This week we revisit an episode that covers David’s top five steps he uses with his career coaching clients based on his decades of experience in the recruitment industry.You might be thinking about your next career move if you have stumbled upon this episode. You know you need to craft your resume, apply for a few jobs on LinkedIn, and then you cross your fingers that your resume gets a look and you get an interview. And then you need to jump through hoops with multiple interviews. It’s a lot of work! Trust me when I say this, I have been there. Every career journey has ups and downs. I’ve been there too and it’s frustrating. And with over 25 years in the recruitment industry, I see the same frustration in the eyes of so many qualified professionals.On this solo episode of the FocusCore podcast, I’m sharing the top five steps I use with my career coaching clients to successfully find a job. In this episode I walk you through five simple steps that can help you land your next job:Macro view - what’s your career vision?Messaging - what is your WOW statement?Searching for jobs - How to stand out from everyone else?Preparing for interviews Pulling it all together So pull out your bento box, grab a pen and paper, and let's dive in!Connect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ Are you enjoying the FocusCore Podcast? Please take a few minutes and leave a rating and a review on Apple Podcasts! Scroll down the show page, select leave a rating, and tap ‘Write a review’. The FocusCore Podcast is hosted by David Sweet and produced by Podlaunch with Jayne. Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co and check out his new album, FIFTY​/​50. https://music.cdavisshannon.com/album/fifty-50-2 Support independent musicians and artists.Mentioned in this episode:2024 Salary Guide

We’ve talked about employer branding on the podcast before and today we go a bit more in depth, exploring employer branding with Brad Corbet from Motionworks. Motionworks is an employer branding and talent attraction consulting company that supports companies for building their brand to hire the best in the Japan market. In the episode, Brad shares with us some of his specialist knowledge of employer branding, talent attraction and recruitment content, and how Japanese companies can utilize these tools to find and hire the best candidates.In this episode you will hear:What employer branding isAbout the current employer branding landscape in JapanBrad’s tips for using social media to enhance employer brandingThe importance of being genuine and transparent in your contentHow employer branding can help companies with diversity and inclusion goalsAbout Motionworks:Motionworks is an employer branding and talent attraction consulting company that supports companies in Japan to attract the best talent. They started up in 2019 with the mission to shift away from traditional forms of recruitment and focus on content (mostly video, podcasts and blogs) to help companies gain an edge in the candidate-centric market in Japan. Motionworks works with a range of companies for video content creation, strategic employer branding consulting and talent attraction. About Brad:Originally from St. Louis, Missouri and born and raised there. Brad attended college in Missouri for about 2 years, then was contacted by a US Navy recruiter to join the navy so he dropped out of college, joined the US Navy and got sent to Japan. That was in 1990. Brad has been here ever since and has had many jobs that finally led him to his current role as Managing Director of Motionworks. Connect with Motionworks:Website:  https://motionworks.co.jp/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSxpEibw5TmRp3U8cFzcuQgConnect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ Are you enjoying the FocusCore Podcast? Please take a few minutes and leave a rating and a review on Apple Podcasts! Scroll down the show page, select leave a rating, and tap ‘Write a review’. The FocusCore Podcast is hosted by David Sweet and produced by Podlaunch with Jayne. Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co and check out his new album, FIFTY​/​50. https://music.cdavisshannon.com/album/fifty-50-2 Support independent...

Welcome to another episode of the FocusCore podcast. Join David Sweet in this episode as he discusses how to hire a talent acquisition professional for your team. A lot of companies have brought the recruitment side in-house and are looking to hire talent acquisition professionals. However, it can be difficult for businesses within Japan to decide who is a good TA for the company and what exactly they should be looking for. Listen to the episode to learn more about hiring the right Talent Acquisition Professional for your company.In this episode you will hear:How to define what you're searching for in a TA for your specific companyAbout the importance of knowing what aspects of your company are attractive to potential TAsDavid’s tips for how he approaches hiring in JapanThe importance of recruiter social media profile and presence, especially for LinkedInConnect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ Are you enjoying the FocusCore Podcast? Please take a few minutes and leave a rating and a review on Apple Podcasts! Scroll down the show page, select leave a rating, and tap ‘Write a review’. The FocusCore Podcast is hosted by David Sweet and produced by Podlaunch with Jayne. Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co and check out his new album, FIFTY​/​50. https://music.cdavisshannon.com/album/fifty-50-2 Support independent musicians and artists.Mentioned in this episode:2024 Salary Guide

Post COVID and employers are looking for ways to entice employees back to the office. In this episode my colleague William and I visited Jones Lang LaSalle's beautiful offices in Akasaka Mitsuke to sit down with Joris Berkhout and Felicien Dumas and talk about best practices for businesses as well as explore more into the Tokyo real estate market. We discuss the current trends in the market, especially in terms of stabilizing and recovering after COVID, and we learn about how JLL specifically encourages staff back to the office after working from home.In this episode you will hear:Common myths about the real estate industryAbout the current trend of turning offices into social hubs to encourage home-working staff back to the officeWhy businesses may want to have flexible working spaces like co-working spaces rather than traditional fixed office spacesAbout how Tokyo’s commercial real estate market is stabilizing after COVIDHow JLL is working towards creating a more sustainable environment in Tokyo’s real estate market About Joris Berkhout:Joris brings 10 years of real estate experience, including 5 years at Mitsui Fudosan, Japan’s largest developer/landlord. With a background and qualification as an architect he provides holistic support from layout analysis and masterplan development to negotiation strategy and transaction execution.Joris speaks Japanese and has a Master’s Degree in Architecture from Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands. Awarded Young Leader of the Year 2017 Japan by CoreNet Global.About Felicien Dumas:Felicien joined JLL in 2023. He was previously a sales trader at a firm founded by ex Goldman Sachs traders. Before that he was a professional soccer player in the US. He is fluent in English, French and Japanese.His track record includes advising multinational firms on their real estate requirements, including relocations, renewals and exit solutions.Connect with Joris & Felicien:JLL Website:  https://www.joneslanglasalle.co.jp/Joris LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/berkhoutjoris/Joris email: Joris.Berkhout@jll.comFelicien LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/f%C3%A9licien-dumas/Felicien email: Felicien.Dumas@jll.comConnect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ Are you enjoying the FocusCore Podcast? Please take a few minutes and leave a rating and a review on Apple Podcasts! Scroll down the show page, select leave a rating, and tap ‘Write a review’. The FocusCore Podcast is hosted by David Sweet and produced by Podlaunch

Are you about to start a hiring process for a difficult position in Japan?In this episode of the podcast David Sweet discusses some important things to do when hiring for difficult positions in Japan. Listen to the episode to get some invaluable insights gleaned from David’s experience of recruitment in Japan and how it differs from other countries. Learn how your company can get the most out of your time and money spent on recruiting for difficult positions in the Japanese labor market.In this episode you will hear:Writing a compelling job description that doesn’t deter good candidatesPros and Cons of including salaries on job descriptionsWhat employer branding is and how to do itThe importance of having a good clear interview processWhy and how you would want to use a recruitment partner for these searchesConnect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ Are you enjoying the FocusCore Podcast? Please take a few minutes and leave a rating and a review on Apple Podcasts! Scroll down the show page, select leave a rating, and tap ‘Write a review’. The FocusCore Podcast is hosted by David Sweet and produced by Podlaunch with Jayne. "Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co and check out his new album, FIFTY​/​50. https://music.cdavisshannon.com/album/fifty-50-2 Support independent musicians and artists.Mentioned in this episode:2024 Salary Guide

David Sweet speaks to Jonathan Cant, Executive Consultant at FocusCore Japan on the steps needed to transition from an accountant to a trusted business partner at a Fortune 500 company. In this episode you will hear:What is finance business partnering?How do to tell a story with numbers What are the important benefits of business partnering for finance professionals?What are the essential skills a finance professional needs to improve and grow beyond the numbers on a spreadsheet?Why Business Partnering is in demand in JapanJonathan Cant Bio:A leading member of the FocusCore team, Jonathan is a UK native who has been in Japan for just under 19 years. With around 15 years of leadership experience, he brings maturity and just the right amount of grey hair to the team. A father of two young boys, he spends most of his free time in the park or playing with Lego. He is also a fan of Newcastle United FC and enjoys photography and cooking.Connect with Jonathan:WebsiteLinkedIn TwitterLinks of things mentioned in this episode:Episode 12 - The challenges of managing local and regional stakeholders in Japan with Jonathan CantLinkedIn poll surveyThe Journey from Accountant to Business Partner in Japan articleConnect with David Sweet:LinkedInTwitterFacebookInstagramWebsiteDoin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co and check out his new album, FIFTY​/​50. Support independent musicians and artists.Mentioned in this episode:2024 Salary Guide

David Sweet, CEO, and Founder of FocusCore Japan discusses the single most critical skill a manager needs to succeed - how to lead up. Leading up has many names in the English vocabulary; sucking up, brown-nosing, minion, and lackey. But what these terms don’t recognize is the importance and the skill it takes to manage upwards and the value it can add if you want to develop your career in management.Connect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ About David Sweet ​David Sweet is the Founder and CEO of FocusCore Japan, based in Tokyo. FocusCore provides a broad range of services from executive to talent management and leadership consulting. His particular focus is on Human Resources. Prior to establishing FocusCore Group, David was a Director with the Tokyo consultancy Wall Street Associates, leading operations, training, and recruitment in multiple sectors. He also worked for 10 years in the U.S. Treasury Department in labor relations and organizational development. He is the author of six books, including "Sweet Sales", "Sweet Success", and "Recruit!". He is also a Certified Executive Coach. David earned a MA in Communications from Regis University and a Ph.D. in Leadership Development. Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co and check out his new album, FIFTY​/​50. Support independent musicians and artists. Mentioned in this episode:2024 Salary Guide

With June and another Pride Month celebrated we're resharing an episode with Yuta Hasumi, Managing Director of Ikigai Authentic. We dive into diversity and inclusion (D&I) in the workplace and discuss the key difference between Japanese and international organizations' approaches to diversity and inclusion.  When foreigners make up only 2% of the population of Japan, you would be forgiven for thinking that diversity and inclusion in the Japanese workplace just don't apply. Yuta has built a global career in D&I and is working with companies and organizations in Japan and the UK to change the way they think about diversity and inclusion. In this episode:How Japan is at a pivotal point to address gender inequality Local challenges when it comes to diversity in a homogenous countryHow people can develop a career in diversity and inclusion and get involved in their current workplaces Why it just makes commercial sense to have diversity and inclusion policies Yuta’s top advice for companies to attract and retain talent Yuta Hasumi Bio:With experience in the Asia Pacific region and global human resources and talent management for overseas firms, as well as overall responsibility for promoting diversity and inclusion in Japan and the South Korean region, Yuta now operates with two bases, one in Japan and the other in the UK. He provides management consulting that makes the most of diversity, advising businesses and other organizations in planning and execution of lectures and training, coaching for management, promoting women’s participation in the workplace, and work style reforms. Yuta holds an MBA from Waseda Business School. Connect with Yuta Hasumi:Website: https://www.ikigaiauthentic.com/en/home Email: yuta.hasumi@ikigaiauthentic.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuta-hasumi/Links of things mentioned in this episode:FocusCore Webinars: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/webinars Connect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ Are you enjoying the FocusCore Podcast? Please take a few minutes and leave a rating and a review on Apple Podcasts! Scroll down the show page, select leave a rating, and tap ‘Write a review’. The FocusCore Podcast is hosted by David Sweet and produced by Podlaunch with Jayne. Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more,...

In a world where Google Bard and Chat GPT can effortlessly craft resumes, generate job descriptions, and provide interview questions in minutes, the future of the recruitment industry seems uncertain. Host David Sweet engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Jason De Luca, Managing Director of Smart Partners KK, a recruitment consultancy firm. Together they explore the profound impact of AI on their sector. While the fear of AI replacing human jobs looms, the question remains: Can ChatGPT ever replicate human relationships completely? Especially in Japan, a culture deeply rooted in building connections, will AI be embraced with open arms, or will traditional work styles prevail? In this conversation, we cover:How we should prepare for AI disruptionValuable insights from the realm of Star Trek Their predictions for the future of recruitment with AIWhy cultivating analog skills is needed The imperative need to understand AI and harness its potential for futureproofing careersJoin us as we navigate the intricate landscape where AI and human interactions converge, finding a balance between efficiency and human connections in the ever-evolving world of recruitment.Jason De Luca Bio:Jason de Luca has over 20 years of experience living in Japan. He earned BA units from Waseda University and an MA degree from Waseda University Graduate School. He worked as a translator for a large Japanese bank and then for several years in the IT staffing industry in both an established firm before then leading the revenue growth of a successful start-up.He now helps clients to achieve higher revenues, better profitability, less stress, less overtime, and more transparent, easier-to-understand business processes as the Managing Director of Smart Partners KK, a recruitment consultancy. They specialise in Japanese small and mid-sized businesses and large multinational firms. He’s also a children’s book author and board game maker. Connect with Jason De Luca:Website: http://www.smartpartners.co.jpLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/smart-partners-kk/ linkedin.com/in/smartpartnersLinks of things mentioned in this episode:Mikey The Lonely BigfootThe Knight Who Loved DragonsConnect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ Are you enjoying the FocusCore Podcast? Please take a few minutes

Welcome to the latest episode of the FocusCore Japan podcast! In this captivating discussion, David sits down with Thomas Gassner, the General Manager of tesa tape KK Japan and Head of Automotive Asia Pacific. Currently based in Tokyo, Thomas joined tesa in his native Germany straight after completing his engineering degree at university and has been with tesa for over 25 years working in Germany, China, Moscow, Belgium, and now Japan. Thomas offers valuable insights into his extensive career within a single company, shedding light on the intricacies of working in Japan and the conversation takes a deep dive into tesa’s sustainability strategy, explores how organisations can embrace environmental responsibility, how Japan compares on the sustainability index, and shares how sustainability is crucial for innovation. Thomas Gassner Bio:Thomas Gassner is the General Manager of tesa tape in Japan and Head of Automotive Asia Pacific. Thomas is an exceptional individual who has demonstrated remarkable expertise and leadership in sales, marketing, and general management. With a career spanning over 25 years at tesa, he made significant contributions to the company around the globe, including Germany, Belgium, china, Japan, and Russia. His relentless drive for excellence, coupled with a profound knowledge of the automotive industry and industrial market segments, has propelled him to spearhead teams and achieve outstanding results. Thomas holds a Master of Engineering from RWTH Aachen University. Connect with Thomas:Website: https://www.tesa.com/en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-gassner-72a6477/ About tesaAs a multinational company, tesa develops innovative adhesive tapes and self-adhesive system solutions for various industries, commercial customers, and end consumers. The age of technical adhesive tapes began 125 years ago – in Hamburg (Germany). Currently, there are already more than 7000 tesa adhesive solutions that help improve the work, products or lives of our customers. Today, the focus is on sustainability and energy-saving processes. tesa invests in the development of environmentally friendly products and solvent-free manufacture processes as well as in the use of renewable energy sources at its locations.Connect with David Sweet:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ Are you enjoying the FocusCore Podcast? Please take a few minutes and leave a rating and a review on Apple Podcasts! Scroll down the show page, select leave a rating, and tap ‘Write a review’. The FocusCore Podcast is hosted by David Sweet and produced by Podlaunch with Jayne. "Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of...