Do I have to do a video interview? Would it be possible to visit a branch in person instead?

I’m Meg, a female member. What? That’s how the system works now?! If I’d started with a video interview, I might’ve been rejected... Mr. Ito, you’re hilarious... Sorry, this isn’t really an answer. m(_ _)m

Maezawa from the Corporate Planning Office here. Due to the impact of COVID-19, it seems the current process is to have applicants undergo a video interview first. As a result, in principle, it’s no longer possible to interview directly at a branch, and you’ll be asked to proceed with a video interview instead. That said, women who are clearly qualified to register at the Black level may, in some cases, be granted an exception and allowed to interview in person. Policies may vary from branch to branch, so when you apply, why not ask whether it would be possible to have an in-person interview? The chances of receiving a special exception are probably low, but if you’re confident in your appearance, you could try contacting them with a photo attached. There’s a chance they may make an exception.