How people are navigating work transformation across Japan

"Rapid technological change and shifting social values are redefining the nature of work worldwide. In Japan, traditional employment models built around lifetime employment and seniority are proving increasingly misaligned with today's social and economic realities. This is prompting a gradual, but meaningful, rethinking of how work is structured. One of the central drivers of this transition is the rising importance of upskilling and reskilling."

"According to a Workday survey, 76% of managers in Japan believe that skills-based approaches can boost productivity, innovation and organizational agility, supporting broader economic growth. Nearly half of Japanese companies have already begun moving towards skills-based talent models, signalling a structural shift in workforce management. This transformation is also evident at the individual level. A 2025 survey by Recruit found that 'personal growth' is the top priority (35.1%) for new employees."

"According to a Cabinet Office public opinion survey, the share of people who cite 'earning money' as their primary reason for working rose from approximately 50% in 2001 to approximately 63% in 2024. By contrast, the proportion of respondents who say they work 'to find purpose in life' has declined, indicating that more people are seeking a sense of purpose outside of work."

Rapid technological change and shifting social values are redefining work in Japan and prompting movement away from lifetime employment and seniority-based progression. Employers and managers increasingly prioritize skills-based approaches: 76% of managers believe such approaches boost productivity, innovation and agility, and nearly half of companies are shifting to skills-based talent models. Individual priorities emphasize personal growth (35.1% of new hires); over 30% worry about developing skills in their current roles. A growing share now cites earning money as the main reason for working (about 63% in 2024). Sabbatical reskilling, four-day weeks and hybrid work are being promoted to strengthen workforce resilience ahead of economic change, with leaders convening at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026.

Read at World Economic Forum