Interview with Hatta Kenji
We spoke with Hatta Kenji, a young employee working at HAGIHARA INDUSTRIES INC.
Proposing high-quality products from the customer's perspective
You originally aimed for a research and development job, but how do you feel about the enjoyment of sales work?
Hatta
I feel happy when my proposals to customers go smoothly and are reflected in the results as numbers. When new products I proposed are lined up on the shelves of home centers or when customers reorder products, I feel a sense of fulfillment.
HAGIHARA INDUSTRIES INC. does not sell on the basis of low prices.
Instead, our products are high-quality and durable, suitable for long-term use, and we offer distinctive products that can be selected for various situations and purposes. I strive to clearly communicate the features of each product and make proposals that meet the needs of our customers.
Is there anything you are particularly conscious of when making proposals?
Hatta
I often think about how much benefit it brings to customers that "the price is higher compared to imported blue sheets, but the quality is good." Proposing from the customer's perspective can be challenging, but it is also a chance to showcase my skills.
Additionally, I value speed.
The quickness of response leads to trust, and there are times when customers contact me first, thinking, "I should consult this person" if something happens.
Moreover, busy buyers often have packed schedules, so I make an effort to explain within the limited time available.
Conversely, are there any challenges you are facing?
Hatta
In recent years, due to rising prices, I often have to discuss price increases, so I want to talk with customers after building a solid relationship of trust.
In the industry, people in their late 20s to early 30s, like me, are still considered young. Many of the buyers I negotiate with are from older generations, so I am constantly experimenting to ensure that our discussions are satisfactory. The topics of casual conversation change with different generations, so I am still feeling my way through that.
There are many challenges, but when a solid relationship is built and it leads to repeat orders or the introduction of new products, it is indeed rewarding as a salesperson.
The hard work behind the exhibition
Please tell us about a memorable job.
Hatta
In my first year assigned to the HC Mail Order Division, I was appointed as the project leader for the "JAPAN DIY HOMECENTER SHOW," an exhibition held at Makuhari Messe in Tokyo. It is a very large event that also serves as a business meeting.
I took over from my predecessor, but when I actually started working, I was really flustered because there were so many things I didn't understand. I was involved in planning and preparing the exhibition content, arranging supplies, creating promotional materials, and developing new products to be showcased at the exhibition, so there was a lot to do.
How the exhibition is presented is crucial.
For example, for the display of truck sheets, I thought of ideas to make it easy to understand at a glance, such as buying a model truck and actually draping the sheet over it.
You took on a big job right after your assignment. Were you able to get through it safely?
Hatta
I consulted with those around me and received various advice, and somehow managed to complete it safely.
Since it was my first time, there were some meetings that ended up being a mess, but I realized that it was important to learn from those reflections each time. After that, I was in charge of the exhibition for three consecutive years, and it went much more smoothly than in my first year. Looking back, I am glad I had that experience.
HAGIHARA INDUSTRIES INC. has many "growth opportunities"
What is the atmosphere like in your workplace?
Hatta
The HC Mail Order Division I am currently in has a relatively young workforce, with ages ranging from their 20s to 40s. I think it is a communicative atmosphere centered around sharing work information.
Even in busy situations, the supervisors watch over us young employees properly. Therefore, it is easy to consult with them, and I feel a sense of care.
Even as a young employee, I believe there is a culture that allows us to take on challenges if we have the desire to do so.
I see, so there is an environment that encourages challenges. Do you have any goals or things you want to work hard on in the future?
Hatta
I might be in the middle of working on that right now.
Our company has a heat-insulating sheet called "Snowtex."
It is one of the items that helps overcome Japan's extreme heat, and I am currently working hard as the project leader for a new product improvement.
Since it is a project involving many people, I honestly feel a lot of pressure. It requires a wide range of skills, including development, sales, and marketing, so it is challenging, but I believe it is leading to significant personal growth.
First of all, we will work together as a team to achieve our sales goals and deliver results.
So that the younger generation can liven up the city of Kurashiki
What is your impression of living in Kurashiki after moving from your hometown of Tottori?
Hatta
The Shinkansen runs here, there are many dining options, and it has a nice urban feel, so I think it is easy to live in.
What surprised me the most after moving was how little it rains. There is little rain and snow, and I truly feel the "Sunny Country" vibe. From a climate perspective, Kurashiki is indeed an easy place to live.
Please give a message to your peers.
Hatta
I think there are many people who follow instructions from their superiors and seniors and are "just doing their job."
However, by having some goals, the feeling of "being made to do something" can change in a positive direction, leading to personal growth. If you create a core belief within yourself, I think you can adapt no matter how much the environment or workplace changes.
Our generation will not reach retirement age for a long time. Although it is a challenging era, let’s all work hard and liven up the city even more!
Conclusion
While managing daily sales, Hatta is involved in various projects. Through this interview, it became clear that HAGIHARA INDUSTRIES INC. has a culture where young people are continuously given opportunities.
Hatta's passionate approach, despite the challenges, seems to embody the company culture. I believe that positive young employees like Hatta will further evolve HAGIHARA INDUSTRIES INC. and make it even more interesting.
Let’s continue to watch the activities of HAGIHARA INDUSTRIES INC., which supports the industry in Kurashiki. I also want to support the project led by Hatta to achieve its goals.
Back issues of the Kurashiki work stories spun by the younger generation
Data of HAGIHARA INDUSTRIES INC.
| Organization Name | HAGIHARA INDUSTRIES INC. |
|---|---|
| Industry | Manufacturing and sales of industrial machinery using synthetic fiber "Flat Yarn" made from polyethylene and polypropylene, and related products such as slitters applying Flat Yarn technology. |
| Representative Name | Asano Kazushi |
| Year Established | 1962 |
| Address | 1-4 Nakado, Mizushima, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | 086-440-0860 |
| Website | HAGIHARA INDUSTRIES INC. Website |
