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Using a qualitative research approach, Working for the Kaisha examines Japanese companies that are actively restructuring their human resource practices and the extent these companies are matching their organizational needs with the particular individual needs of their employees. It documents shifts taking place in Japan in the late 20th century highlighted by the changes in personnel management practices. Furthermore, this book focuses on the impact these changes are having on employers and employees, specifically the shifting of responsibility for an employee´s career from the employer to the employee. In addition, career development practices in Canadian companies are compared as a means of forecasting future career development trends in Japan. These emerging trends will have a major influence on the work world of the early 21st century.

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Dr Peter Firkola is an Associate Professor of International Management at the International Student Center, Hokkaido University in Sapporo, Japan. He received his PhD at Hokkaido University and MBA at McMaster University in Canada. His research focuses on HR in Japanese organizations, career development and cross-cultural management.

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