Rirekisho vs Shokumukeirekisho

Two Essential Documents for Job Hunting in Japan

When applying for mid-career or professional jobs in Japan, recruiters typically ask for two documents: a Rirekisho (履歴書) and a Shokumukeirekisho (職務経歴書). Understanding their differences is key to submitting a strong application.

The Rirekisho: Basic Profile

The Rirekisho is a standardized profile containing contact info, chronological history lists, certifications, and motivation paragraphs. It acts as a standardized overview of your background.

The Shokumukeirekisho: Detailed Experience

The Shokumukeirekisho is a detailed record of your work history. It has no fixed format, allowing you to highlight specific projects, technical skills, achievements, and responsibilities.