Pristy Benjamin

Foreign Attorney

“Working at the firm has helped me to improve several key skills - efficiency, problem-solving and communication. It has also helped me develop the right kind of confidence when presenting my ideas/opinions.”

 

What were the initial difficulties of adjusting to life in Japan?

In terms of general difficulties, I would say the language barrier, higher level of bureaucracy, and the many cultural nuances to be mindful of in everyday life stand out the most, since these result in relatively basic tasks automatically becoming much more challenging than I was used to. I found that finding a good routine and getting to know the city better helped me feel very at home in Osaka.

How would you describe the atmosphere within your team?

While the work environment is fast-paced and the workload is quite heavy, my team is very supportive, helpful and friendly; this holds especially true for my first few months (when I was asking a lot of questions!).

What have been your 3 fondest leisure experiences in Japan?

- Food (almost everywhere has great food!)
- Universal Studios Japan (specifically The Wizarding World of Harry Potter)
- Exploring the Kansai region (both, solo and with friends)

Do you feel like you're having an impact directly on the clients that you work for?

Yes, our primary goal is to always ensure that the client's needs are met to their satisfaction. As the point of contact between the firm and our clients (for the most part) in achieving this goal, our contribution definitely feels substantial.

What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?

Initially, the large influx of new information, pushing you to learn as you do, can be quite overwhelming. However, since having learned how to process/use this information effectively (and efficiently), I find that I appreciate the constant opportunity to learn.

When I am not at work, I am ...

out exploring and/or eating. There's a lot of great food out here!

What is the most important thing that working at the firm has taught you about yourself?

Working at the firm has helped me to improve several key skills - efficiency, problem-solving and communication. It has also helped me develop the right kind of confidence when presenting my ideas/opinions.

I am looking forward to experience ...

the Sapporo Snow Festival! Hopefully, travelling to nearby countries too.

What is the best thing about being a part of a global team?

One of the many wonderful aspects of a global team is getting to know more about so many places and cultures (also, you get to try snacks from everywhere!). I also found it comforting that for most difficulties I faced with my move, I always had people to ask in my immediate surroundings, since they'd been in the same place and was always willing to help me out.

What advice would you give a potential new colleague?

Be adaptable and open-minded; you may even learn things that you didn't expect to. Help/support is always available if you need it.

Of all the adjectives floating in your brain, give us three that best describe your life in Japan

Different. Educational. Pretty.