Learn Japanese: JLPT N5 – Writing About a Job

The JLPT N5 exam includes a writing section where you’ll need to describe yourself and your job. This article will help you prepare by focusing on practical phrases and realistic examples you can use. We’ll look at how native speakers actually talk about their jobs in Japanese.

Understanding the Task

You’ll typically be given a situation, such as “Write a short email to your new boss introducing yourself.” or “Write a brief description of your job for a company website.” The focus is on clear and simple communication, not perfect grammar. Don’t worry about complex sentence structures; prioritize getting your message across.

Essential Vocabulary & Phrases

Here’s some key vocabulary and phrases you’ll need:

• お仕事 (oshigoto) – Job
• 会社 (kaisha) – Company
• アルバイト (arubaito) – Part-time job
• 正社員 (seishain) – Full-time employee
• 部 (bu) – Department / Section
• 仕事内容 (shigoto naiyou) – Job content/description
• 働いています (hataraite imasu) – I am working
• ～の (~no) – Particle indicating ‘of’ or ‘about’

Example 1: Email to a New Boss

Let’s say you’re starting a new job. Here’s an example email:

Subject: Introducing Myself - [Your Name]

Dear Mr./Ms. [Boss's Last Name],

Watashi wa [Your Name] desu.  (私は[Your Name]です。)
I’m very happy to start working at [Company Name]. ( [会社名]で働くことができてとても嬉しいです。)

I am working as a receptionist. (受付の仕事をしております。) My job content is answering the phone and greeting visitors. (仕事内容は電話に答えたり、お客様を迎えたりします。)

Arigato gozaimasu.  (ありがとうございます。)
Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Translation: “I am [Your Name]. I’m very happy to start working at [Company Name]. I am working as a receptionist. My job content is answering the phone and greeting visitors. Thank you very much.”

Common Mistake & Correction: “Watashi wa osigoto desu.” – Incorrect. Use お仕事 (oshigoto) instead. The corrected phrase is “私は[Your Name]です。お仕事をしています。”

Example 2: Brief Job Description

Let’s create a short description for a company website:

Job Title:  Receptionist
Company: [Company Name]
About the Role:
Watashi wa [Company Name] no receptionist ni hataraite imasu. (私は[Company Name]のレセプションに働いています。)  I answer phone calls and greet customers. (お客様を迎えるのが私の仕事です。) I also help visitors find their way. (お客様が道を見つけるのを手伝います。)

Translation: “Receptionist, [Company Name]. I am working as a receptionist at [Company Name]. I answer phone calls and greet customers. I also help visitors find their way.”

Tips for Success

• Keep it Short & Simple: N5 writing is about conveying basic information clearly.
• Use Common Phrases: Don’t try to be overly fancy. Stick to everyday Japanese.
• Practice Regularly: Write simple sentences and descriptions daily.
• Focus on Functionality: Think about what you need to say, not what sounds ‘perfect.’

Good luck with your JLPT N5 writing! 頑張ってください！(Ganbatte kudasai!) – Do your best!