En Japan Survey on First-Time Career Changes: 'Active Application' leads to success, while 'Lack of Comparison' is the Top Regret

En Japan Inc. (Headquarters: Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo; Chairman and President: Michikatsu Ochi) conducted a survey on 'What was good to do vs. what should have been done' during the first career change on its comprehensive job site 'En Tenshoku,' which has been ranked No. 1 in satisfaction for eight consecutive years. The survey received responses from 962 users.

[Survey Highlights] 1. Experience and Success: 81% of respondents have changed jobs. Success perception increases with age, with 64% of those in their 40s feeling their first move was successful. 2. Good Things Done: The most common positive action was 'Active application—just giving it a try' (31%). Candidates discovered company charm through interviews that wasn't apparent on paper. 3. Common Regrets: The top regret was 'Comparing and evaluating many job offers' (19%). Many expressed regret that they decided on a company after seeing only a few due to impatience. 4. Expectation-Reality Gap: About 30% (28%) reported a significant gap between their pre-hire image and post-hire reality, leading to regret. Issues included company culture and overtime hours.

[Advice for First-Timers] Respondents advised not to compromise easily, to try and visit the workplace if possible, and to complete the job hunt within 2-3 months to maintain a clear focus.