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5 Tips to Improve Retention Rates of Foreign Human Resources at Security Companies
Knowledge & Know-how

5 Tips to Improve Retention Rates of Foreign Human Resources at Security Companies

Concrete measures to improve retention rates after hiring foreign human resources in the security industry. Explains effective methods from lifestyle support to qualification acquisition support.

2024-03-05
Kenichi Sato / HR Consultant
6 min
2,100 views
Retention RateForeign Human ResourcesSecurity CompanyHR Measures

記事本文

Why Retention of Foreign Security Guards Matters Now

Japan is facing a severe labor shortage due to its aging population and declining workforce. As a result, companies are increasingly relying on foreign workers to sustain operations.

In fact, the number of foreign workers in Japan has reached over 2.3 million, continuing to grow each year as businesses struggle to secure domestic talent.

In the security industry, where manpower is essential, foreign workers are becoming a critical part of the workforce.

However, hiring is only the first step. The real challenge is retention.

Main Reasons Why Foreign Workers Leave

Foreign employees in the security sector often leave due to a combination of workplace and personal challenges:

  • Language and communication barriers
  • Cultural differences in the workplace
  • Lack of career growth opportunities
  • Insufficient support in daily life

Without addressing these issues, companies risk high turnover, increased hiring costs, and operational instability.

5 Key Strategies to Improve Retention

1. Provide Strong Daily Life Support

For foreign workers, adjusting to life in Japan can be as challenging as the job itself.

  • Support with housing arrangements
  • Help opening bank accounts and mobile contracts
  • Assistance with government procedures

Reducing life-related stress allows employees to focus on their work.

2. Continuous Japanese Language & Job Training

Security work requires accurate and timely communication.

  • Training for radio communication phrases
  • Understanding on-site instructions
  • Support for writing reports

Ongoing education improves both confidence and safety performance.

3. Clear Career Path and Growth Opportunities

Employees are more likely to stay when they can see a future.

  • Promotion pathways to supervisor roles
  • Support for obtaining certifications
  • Long-term employment planning

Providing a clear vision helps maintain motivation and loyalty.

4. Introduce a Mentorship System

Having someone to rely on is crucial, especially in a foreign environment.

  • Pairing with experienced Japanese staff
  • Regular one-on-one check-ins
  • On-site guidance and feedback

This builds trust and accelerates workplace adaptation.

5. Create a Comfortable and Inclusive Work Environment

Modern workplaces increasingly focus on employee well-being and flexibility.

  • Flexible scheduling where possible
  • Encouraging open communication
  • Respect for cultural diversity

A positive work environment directly contributes to long-term retention.

What Successful Companies Do Differently

Companies with high retention rates share common practices:

  • Prevent mismatches during hiring
  • Invest in continuous training and support
  • Promote cultural understanding within teams

As Japan’s reliance on foreign labor continues to grow, businesses must shift from simply “hiring” to “retaining” talent.

Conclusion

Improving retention of foreign security guards is not just an HR task—it is a strategic priority for sustainable business growth.

By focusing on:

  • Life support
  • Training and education
  • Career development
  • Workplace environment

companies can build a stable, skilled, and loyal workforce.

In the coming years, those who invest in retention—not just recruitment—will gain a clear competitive advantage in Japan’s evolving security industry.