![](https://blogimg.goo.ne.jp/user_image/78/3c/086672ed40719dd528f917cf27611cb2.png)
Retailers and restaurants in Japan are adopting new methods to motivate their workers and reduce turnover amid a severe labor shortage. Major convenience store chain Seven-Eleven Japan started an in-house contest on customer service skills in 2023. This year, selected workers from outlets across the country competed to show how well they can improvise to serve customers using appropriate language. The company evaluated their performance and gave awards. The aim is to make employees key to running the stores feel more motivated. It's also to train young staff better so they don't leave to go and work elsewhere. Meanwhile, noodle chain Marugame Udon is offering workers a chance to gain certification. Applicants take a written exam on what they know about noodle-making. They're also tested on a hundred practical skills. Company officials say the job turnover among certified staff is only about one-tenth the rate for those without certification.
◆turnover 離職率、離職者数
◆in-house 社内の
◆improvise 即興でやる、アドリブで行う