Mid-level Tech (3+ YOE, Indian, Conversational Japanese) – How Important is Language? Scouts Reach Out Then Pull Back – Realistic Odds in Japan?
First of all thank you for taking your time to answer. I’m a 26-year-old Indian with over 3 years of experience in tech. I have multiple offers — some I applied for, some from recruiters who reached out after seeing my profile/portfolio. Platinum and gold scouts have contacted me and I have an interview next month. I clearly mention conversational Japanese everywhere (profile, resume, Japanese resume). Yet scouts still reach out, then sometimes take steps back. They have checked my full background, so this is not a misunderstanding.
My questions:
How important is Japanese for mid-level tech roles in 2026? Is conversational level enough for many companies (Japanese or international), or do most expect N2/N3?
Why do scouts reach out knowing my exact Japanese level and then pull back? Common issue?
How difficult is the market right now for someone with my profile (3+ YOE, conversational Japanese) to get a mid-level tech job — both Japanese companies and non-Japanese ones? Realistic chances and timelines?
Feel free to take your time but by the end of this month as I have a interview next month. If anyone is open to a bit of guidance, I’d appreciate it (happy to share more details privately).
Thank you!
PS- If there are recruiters here then please let me know as I'd be very happy to share my portfolio with you.