Simultaneous recruiting of new graduates

Simultaneous recruiting of new graduates is a custom predominantly observed in Japan and South Korea, where companies hire new graduates all at once and employ them from a specific date. This practice is also known as Shūshoku Katsudō or Shūkatsu in Japan and Sinhaknyeon Chiyŏk in South Korea.

History

The practice of simultaneous recruiting of new graduates originated in Japan during the post-World War II economic expansion. It was a strategy employed by companies to secure the best talent from universities. Over time, it became a standard practice and was adopted by South Korea as well.

Process

The process begins with companies announcing their job openings for new graduates at the same time, usually a year before the students' graduation. Students apply to these positions during their final year of university. The companies then conduct interviews and tests, and successful candidates are given job offers. The new employees start working on a specified date, usually in April in Japan and in February in South Korea.

Criticism

The system of simultaneous recruiting of new graduates has been criticized for its rigidity. It puts pressure on students to secure a job before graduation, and those who fail to do so are often stigmatized. It also limits the opportunities for mid-career job changes.

See also

• Job hunting in Japan
• Employment in South Korea
• Graduate unemployment