Metamorphosis in Japan - 1 - first day in RBJP

Dear friends,

In continuance to the ‘inspiring tales’ here is an addition, a new experience, just a day to day update in a poetic perspective.

Each region/land will definitely have advantages and disadvantages. So while I am compiling my observation of this foreign land, don't mistake if I heavily weigh on the positives than the negatives. I am trying to be as unbiased as possible.

The first visit to the Bosch plant here was routine. Unlike India, the ID is used here only for getting the door open, not punching time-in, time-out. I have observed this in my earlier Japanese acquaintances that they like it this way. They believe that work is religion and are always honest to it. I was greeted at the gate by my German boss who is an aggressive lady, short and sharp. Beating the formalities to a pulp she immediately took me around, that's the canteen, that's the HR, and that's the building where you will work. Any questions?

Yes, the same question was there in my head “ What is the procedure to change the room”.

It was as if I was seeing the telecast of Shahrukh Khan’s TV serial Fauji whereby his superior/trainer always asked the question – Any questions? And if someone dared ask anything the reply will be, I do not like soldiers who ask many questions….

Now I was in the office and looked like an elephant amongst rabbits. I am not referring to size or cute quotient, just that like India, RBJP also believes in casual attire!! This will be surprising and shocking to those who know the Japanese culture. They are very very formal in attire and behavior in the office premises. I was clad up in suit and tie and was definitely looked upon as an alien.

My working place, other amenities were intact. Once again unlike Japanese office furniture arrangement of serial benches with no divisions, Bosch Japan is an exception. We have parallel bench arrangement with soft board dividing benches. This really isolates associates and is a surprising arrangement.

After settling down, I had an orientation meeting with HR. Sase-san is a person full of life and humour. He had some small presentation for me followed by the necessary things I need to do before I start working. My Japan ID was given at the gate itself, they had already informed other associates about my travel and I was just ready to start. This discipline has to come to India. The lesser we talk about our HR, the better.

Ok, the uncomfortable situation. You do NOT leave your seat often. You just sit and stare at the system even if you don't have work. You just cannot talk in mobile. For all practical reasons, this is a serious let down. No vending machines for tea, coffee or water. If you feel like having anything you BUY from the vending machine. You heard me!! So much so, you BUY food in canteen. Guys there’s a small reason to rejoice back home J.

The day was over in a flash. It was uneasy to make the first move. Yes the first move to get out of office. Unlike India where associates used to adjust their watches – hey Sanjay is leaving, it is 4.00 pm, here you just dont leave office. The first one to leave will apologize to others in Japanese – I am so sorry that I have to leave before all of you, it's a yell, everyone has to listen to it. Then comes a unanimous reply, oh, nonono, you had a hard day, you deserve to go early. Many of you may have raised their eyebrows, but yes, this is how they work. Thankful to me German Bosch who again cut down the formality shit and announced, Sanjay you leave, I wont be here for a couple of days – see you on Tuesday.

Next – Weekend trip to Tokyo