Looking to work in a Global X Startup? An interview with one of our BLINK interns!
There exist many individuals living in Japan thinking about the following desires: “I want to work at a global firm”, “I want to utilize my English at work”, “I hope to work together with people from around the globe”.
It’s a wonderful aspect to look for in a job, but it may be difficult to imagine what it may actually look like if you haven’t experienced it before.
In this article, we interviewed Asama, who works at one of the most international share offices in Japan, BLINK SMART WORKSPACE, and he shared his thoughts on the benefits of working in a global environment, as well as startups.
Asama Toyozawa
“I am currently an university student in Tokyo, after returning from Dubai where I spent most of my childhood. My internship at BLINK began from around May of the year 2019, and I’ve been here around 1 year now”.
Why did you decide to work at BLINK Coworking Space?
Asama:
“It all began when I joined an event called SLUSH TOKYO (now called BARK) back in 2019, as a volunteer for the operational work. There was a facebook page made for the volunteers of the event, with approximately 400 people, and one day after the event had ended, someone posted a job posting of BLINK on the page. That’s when I first heard of the company.
The listing grasped my attention immediately with its international nature, friendly vibe, and an opportunity of growth. Since it was less than 2 years since I was back in Japan, I was still not accustomed with the Japanese culture, and that may have also played a part in raising my interest. In the end though, it really was about how fun the work seemed to be!”.
BLINK:
I see! The fact that you grew up in Dubai, outside of Japan, must have affected you greatly in how you transition to this completely different nation. Either way, you being able to enjoy your work in an international environment sounds fantastic!
Would you mind telling us, specifically what part of the job listing caught your interest?
Asama:
“It mentioned that the opportunity welcomed challengers and people that enjoyed trying new things, which made me that much more excited. Now that I think about it, these points may be some of the most distinctive, as well as the best traits of joining a startup.
Another aspect that stood out was a photo that was used on the listing, showing a photo of the community manager Shin and a previous intern, while mentioning that they speak in ‘tamego’, or casual tone with each other. That certainly intrigued me, as it was a very uncommon thing in Japan, but I can confirm to you now that this friendly atmosphere is one of the best things about this company!”.
BLINK:
Indeed, with the help of Shin and the kind tenants, our place certainly offers a very at-home vibe with everyone supporting each other.
What have you learned working at BLINK up to now?
Asama:
“Comparing myself before and after joining here, I think I’ve changed drastically. A part time job and an internship differs greatly, and I was able to experience a variety of opportunities, being interested in new things that I would have never expected, and also having an idea of what kind of work fits me best.
From the past year, I’d say creating a new community and organizing events for it was the most challenging project I have taken under my belt. Planning from zero, and reaching new highs definitely made this work something I can proudly introduce.
Another accomplishment would be the planning, building, managing, and analyzing of the homepage that I was assigned recently. Having the responsibility of overhauling the ‘face’ of the company is no easy task, but I definitely appreciate being able to grab these opportunities to take on these tasks, and I feel that one of the best things about startups, is that you’ll be able to experience a wide array of roles in one company”.
BLINK:
We have to be thankful for all our members and the team to entrust us with such opportunities!
And lastly, please tell us your favorite parts about BLINK!
Asama:
“At BLINK, you’ll have days where you’ll hear more English than Japanese inside the facility, and that’s something you don’t see often in Japan. There’s a very small number of foreigners in this country, but one step inside BLINK, and it’s gonna feel like you traveled to a completely different place.
The atmosphere created by the people here is so unique, and I don’t think it exists in any other share-office or coworking space. And I sure do love working in a place like that!”
BLINK:
Thank you for your time Asama!
To conclude
How was it? I think we were able to have some ideas of the charms working in a global environment X startup!
We’d like to end it with some big news for you! Up to 30% off discounts are available for selected plans, for a limited time! If you’re interested, be sure to check this link to learn more:
About BLINK Community:
BLINK Community is a coworking space located in the heart of Roppongi, Tokyo, with an active international community of various professionals from startups, entrepreneurs, freelancers and more! Along with events held every week with topics ranging from social meetups, seminars and workshops, to even sake tasting, it’s a place where everyone can come to focus and enjoy.
