Japanese workers are paying others to request leave from their employers
Too stressed to ask your boss for time off? In Japan, some workers are paying someone else to do it for them.
In a report by Japan Today, a growing number of workers are hiring professionals to make the request on their behalf. This is because asking for an extended leave of absence from antagonistic employers may lead to mental health struggles, burnout, or personal issues.
Legal office Kawagoe Mizuho Law has seen a rise in demand for its leave-of-absence proxy service. The way it works is that they have a representative contact an employee's company, formally communicate their intention to take leave, and assist with the administrative process.
This can help reduce the emotional burden on workers who fear negative reactions or confrontational discussions with their supervisors.
In the country, requesting a leave of absence is often not as straightforward. Factors such as eligibility, duration, documentation requirements, and return-to-work arrangements are usually determined by an employer's internal rules, making leave requests daunting for the employees, especially if their boss is the source of their stress.
Because of this, representatives often have to engage in multiple discussions with companies to help settle the terms of an employee's absence.
Kawagoe Mizuho Law said that while the service is typically priced around ¥55,000 (P20,734), many workers consider it worthwhile if it allows them to step away from work without worsening an already stressful situation.
Interestingly, the service isn't used exclusively by younger employees. According to the report, the agency has also assisted middle managers in their 50s and even government employees in making leave requests.