Jump to Another Job - Part 10: Timeline and Email Templates

A well-planned timeline and professional communication templates will help you execute a smooth job transition. This final guide provides a comprehensive roadmap and ready-to-use templates.

Suggested Timeline (6-8 Weeks)

Week -8: Market Research and Preparation

Key activities:

• Research salary benchmarks using MHLW data and industry reports
• Update CV and portfolio with recent achievements and quantified results
• Define compensation expectations including base salary, bonus, and benefits
• Identify target companies using whitelist research methods
• Prepare interview materials and practice common questions

Deliverables:

• Updated professional documents
• Target company list with research notes
• Salary negotiation strategy and talking points

Week -7 to Week -6: Active Job Search

Key activities:

• Submit applications to target companies
• Attend interviews and networking events
• Negotiate offer terms using market data and value proposition
• Request Working Conditions Notification (労働条件通知書) for final offers
• Complete background checks and reference verifications

Communication focus:

• Professional follow-up emails after interviews
• Salary negotiation discussions
• Offer evaluation and counter-proposals

Week -5: Offer Acceptance and Resignation

Key activities:

• Accept final offer and confirm start date
• Submit resignation letter (退職届) to current employer
• Confirm resignation date according to Civil Code Article 627 (minimum 2 weeks)
• Schedule transition meetings with current supervisor

Critical documents:

• Signed offer letter and employment conditions
• Formal resignation letter
• Transition timeline agreement

Week -4 to Week -2: Handover and Documentation

Key activities:

• Create comprehensive handover documentation
• Transfer knowledge to designated colleagues
• Request tax withholding slip (源泉徴収票) from current employer
• Obtain health insurance disqualification certificate (資格喪失証明書)
• Register for National Health Insurance if there's an employment gap

Administrative tasks:

• Complete expense reports and outstanding paperwork
• Return company property and equipment
• Update personal contact information for former colleagues

Week -1: Final Preparations

Key activities:

• Receive resignation certificate (離職票) or register through My Number Portal
• Confirm new job requirements and first-day logistics
• Complete any required pre-employment tasks (training, documentation)
• Prepare for smooth transition to new role

Reference: MHLW Digital Procedures Guide

Week 0: New Job Commencement

Key activities:

• Begin new position with required documentation
• Submit previous employment tax documents for year-end adjustment consolidation
• Complete new employee orientation and training programs
• Establish working relationships with new colleagues and supervisors

Email Templates

Salary Negotiation Email Template

Subject: Re: [Position Title] Offer Discussion