I would like to spread Japan's technological capabilities throughout the world.

———What kind of business are you responsible for?

As a member of the sales staff for stainless steel wire, my main function is to listen and learn what kind of products our customers, mainly screw and spring manufacturers, are seeking. Depending on the application of the stainless steel wire, we may also initiate proposals ourselves. Especially on new projects, I have many opportunities to consider what type of stainless steel wire should be provided, both in conversation with the customer and when bringing their ideas back to discuss within the company,

———Why did you choose this job?

I had been working in the literary field since high school, not initially focusing on the steel industry. However, I had been thinking for a long time that I would really like to help bring the technological capabilities and the services that are unique to Japan to the rest of the world. It was really nice to be assigned to this Overseas Business Division, where I am doing exactly that!

———What was the key to joining us?

It was at a joint explanatory meeting of the Nippon Steel group, which I just happened to attend, that I first saw a booth for Nippon Steel SG Wire Co., Ltd. The person in charge of recruitment there noted that the company's products were being used in the asteroid explorer "Hayabusa." That really captured my interest.

Also, the recruitment lead at that time was a woman with experience in the Oversea Sales Division to which I currently belong. I became more and more interested as I listened to her story. The most important thing I heard was that I could use English in my work. I asked additional questions with an emphasis to type of work involved, the frequency of using English, and the likelihood of overseas business trips.

My first overseas business trip was a great experience.

———What is the most impressive thing you've done since you joined?

I just went a business trip abroad for the first time last week. I spent three weeks traveling around Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. To be honest, since I had not had much opportunity to use English in the year since I joined the company, it seems that a gap had developed between my expectations and reality. I wondered. "Should I really have joined this company?" That gap disappeared instantly as a result of this trip, and I no longer feel like that. Also, by speaking directly with the local customers, I got the feeling that we were able to communicate Japanese technology properly. It was such a wonderful experience!

———What would you choose if you wanted to convey just one merit of this company?

More than anything, I feel that relationships inside the company are warm. My boss and seniors also are kind to consult me, and I feel that senior staff maintain an environment where it is always easy to talk.
At the time of joining the company, most of us have never had any experience whatsoever with the stainless steel industry, so there are so many things that we don't know at first. Even so, it is very encouraging to have seniors who treat me as if I'm at the same level they are, without making a disagreeable face even if I ask questions that sometimes miss the point.

———What are your future objectives?

My first priority is to execute my work properly. I would like to deepen my work-related knowledge, build good relationships with customers, and eventually I would like to have enough capacity to oversee the company and industry as a whole.