[Dramatic Changes in the Japanese-English Bilingual Labor Market in the US] 1. Addressing the Shortage of Bilingual Talent in the Midwest

Ever since Interesse International Group started opening offices in various regions of the US, there have been offices with consistent shortages of bilingual talent. One such notable region is the Midwest. While Chicago might traditionally be seen as the primary hub for business in this region, we chose to establish its inaugural office in the suburbs of Cincinnati back in 2005. This strategic decision was influenced by the fact that approximately 50% of Japanese companies operating in the Midwest are concentrated in Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky. Despite initial apprehensions among employees regarding the availability of qualified job candidates, the launch of our Cincinnati office proceeded smoothly. However, in recent years, the further shortage of bilingual talent has emerged as a challenge to our operations.

The aftermath of the 2008 Financial Crisis, during which the nationwide unemployment rate in the United States peaked at 10%. Prioritizing job opportunities for its citizens, the US government prompted a tightening of work visa regulations for foreign nationals seeking employment in the country.  Although the US unemployment rate gradually decreased to pre-Lehman shock levels of 5% by the end of the Obama administration, the subsequent tenure of the Trump administration saw a further tightening of conditions for foreign worker permits. This trend has created additional hurdles for bilingual individuals seeking employment in the US, particularly for those from countries like Japan with low immigrant populations. As Japanese companies continue to expand their presence in the US market, the scarcity of bilingual talent poses a significant and ongoing challenge. 

Written by Masato Fujihara, President
Interesse International Group
Came to New York as an expatriate for an HR company in January 1994.  Became independent in 1996 and started own business in defiance of return-to-Japan order by the company.  Currently, Interesse International Group has 11 locations in the United States and established a Japanese subsidiary in 2022. With 30 years of knowledge and experience in the HR industry, Interesse International Group delivers practical information to clients.