A series of conversations with different stakeholders. Relatively informal and more focused on establishing if there is a fit based on culture and experience. First call with HR, then department manager, then line manager, another head in same field and finally chief HR officer.
I applied through college or university. The process took 2 months. I interviewed at Rakuten in Feb 2019
Interview
Initial online application via business school dedicated website - several questions (mini-essays) had to be answered along with CV submission. After being shortlisted for interview, first discussions with HR then following ones with management team within functions you might potentially work with.
I applied through college or university. The process took 4 weeks. I interviewed at Rakuten in Mar 2019
Interview
Online application (school provided link) with short essay style questions. Pre-screening, then approx. 30 minutes HR interview determining potential fit, followed by 2-3 additional interviews with potential team members and managers who assess competencies.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Would you consider moving to Japan? Most questions were tailored to the function you would be joining (some behavioral questions, others talking about situational experience)