The Gacha Effect: Addressing Workplace Anxiety in Japan’s New Generation

The concept of “gacha,” originally associated with random rewards in capsule toy machines, has found a new context in Japan’s post-pandemic workplace. The term “assignment gacha” describes the randomness experienced by fresh graduates in their job placements. Many new hires fear being assigned to departments that do not align with their skills or interests, dampening the excitement of starting their careers. However, as companies adapt to market demands, the uncertainty surrounding job assignments is gradually being reduced. Organizations are increasingly offering more flexible and transparent allocation processes to address these concerns.

Efforts to Reduce Assignment Randomness
Some companies have implemented systems that allow employees to specify their preferences before placement. For instance, Sompo Japan Insurance permits new hires to request department assignments even before officially starting their roles. This initiative fosters trust and satisfaction among employees. With a labor market increasingly favoring job seekers, companies are prioritizing such measures to attract and retain talent. Targeted placement systems that match employees with roles based on their skills and interests are becoming more common, reflecting a shift toward worker-centric practices.