NOVA (Japan) Interview Questions
& Process

The interview process was a solid Zoom call, I don't have any real complaints. They were very open when I asked questions, but make sure you're ready to ask the 'right' questions. I felt like some important info was only shared after I happened to ask a good question. For example, there are two contract types: individual contractor and employee. Each has pros and cons. Contractor: set your own schedule, offer your own classes, paid per class, find your own housing, but you can earn more than an employee if you work more. You only need to work minimum hours for the visa, but can work way more. Employee: hours are assigned, housing is assigned, but less freedom with days off, and no chance to have a pet... (getting a pet to Japan takes over 6 months, so do this first if you want to bring one). Also, remember that these two contracts mean different tax filing in the US.

I was coming from one branch and made an internal transfer request for this role. There was an initial interview with the head teacher. Then HQ decided if I was suitable for consideration. If yes, another interview was done with the head teacher and branch manager.

There were 2 candidates and 2 interviewers. One of the interviewer asked questions each. The interview time was around 30min. Interview style was pretty formal. Lastly, they asked us if we work in position we don't prefer.

It was pretty straightforward. They asked me where I ideally wanted to be placed, but couldn't promise anything until after I arrived in Japan and was completely at their discretion. This was despite the job listing indicating openings in a specific area. It feels like they're exploiting young people eager to come to Japan, and potentially turning into a black company if they aren't already.