Interview with Soeda Keigo
We spoke with Soeda Keigo, a young staff member working in the Housing Division of the Kurashiki City Architecture Department.
Supporting comfortable living in public housing through attentive responses
What kind of inquiries come to the Housing Division's counter?
Soeda (no honorifics)
There seems to be many urgent consultations related to housing.
For example, there are families who are worried about whether they can continue living in public housing when the contract holder has passed away.
Those who come to the counter are generally in trouble, so I try to respond in a way that alleviates their concerns as much as possible.
There are various regulations regarding public housing, right? Sometimes there are difficult issues that you struggle to address.
Soeda
That's right. There are many cases where it is difficult for the administration to intervene, such as rules prohibiting pet ownership, noise troubles between residents, and compensation issues due to water leaks.
Since there are ordinances, it is easy to say "that's not allowed," but simply conveying the rules and pushing people away is not realistic.
When dealing with such cases, is there anything you keep in mind?
Soeda
It's advice I received from my seniors, but listening thoroughly to the conversation is essential. I believe it is important to listen until the end to find the best solution that both parties can compromise on.
By asking what they are anxious about, including the background, I have sometimes found alternative solutions or leads that they can agree with. I try to approach their requests not as a mere "point," but with a broader perspective as a "surface."
The "teamwork" required in training is essential in the city hall
There must be many challenging situations, but what do you find rewarding about your current job?
Soeda
Seeing residents who were full of anxiety leave the counter with a relieved expression after going through the procedures is very rewarding. I feel especially happy when I receive words of gratitude.
I feel the greatest sense of fulfillment in moments when I can realize that "my work has helped someone."
Because there are many serious consultations from citizens, the atmosphere on the floor is quite tense. What is the workplace atmosphere like?
Soeda
During work hours, there is a constant atmosphere of concentration as citizens come in, but after work, it transforms into a friendly atmosphere where we can have consultations and casual conversations.
I think the workplace has a good balance between work and relaxation.
Also, there are many kind and warm staff members.
For example, when I am struggling to respond at the counter, my supervisor, who has been listening from behind, sometimes provides support before I even have to signal for help. There is a sense of security in knowing that we can solve problems as a team rather than bearing it alone.
It sounds like a supportive environment for solving problems as a team. By the way, what kind of training did you receive after joining?
Soeda
After joining, I underwent various training sessions.
Not only classroom learning but also outdoor training and game-based training to learn about organizational communication, many of which were surprisingly active and hands-on.
In one training session, we were divided into small groups to interview people in the Bikan Historical Area to come up with "tourism ideas to encourage people to stay in Kurashiki." I think it required close communication among group members.
Even though our departments and job descriptions are different, I still maintain contact with my peers because of such training.
I was surprised to see that there are many training sessions focused on enhancing teamwork and group skills.
Soeda
City work certainly includes solitary office tasks.
However, even in such tasks, ultimately, you need to get confirmation from others or require a supervisor's judgment, so I feel that teamwork is essential in this workplace.
The charm of Kurashiki revealed through transfers to various locations
From your experience in various locations, what do you feel is unique about Kurashiki? Please also tell us about its livability.
Soeda
I think Kurashiki is a city that balances touristic strengths filled with historical culture, like the Bikan Historical Area, and urban functions that allow for a highly convenient lifestyle.
In daily life, I feel the livability through the abundance of options, such as never having trouble shopping and having well-developed transportation that allows access to all directions. Also, as it is called the "Land of Sunshine," the climate is comfortable.
Additionally, in terms of healthcare, I have experienced smooth cooperation between hospitals through children's health check-ups. I believe that the well-established medical system is one of Kurashiki's attractions.
Choosing a job that suits you while relying on those close to you
Please share a message for young people of your generation.
Soeda
I think there are people who are struggling with their current environment, but it might be good to keep the option of "strongly changing your environment," like changing jobs.
In my previous job, I was blessed with good benefits and salary, so when I considered changing jobs, people around me advised me not to leave. However, the conditions one seeks in a workplace must differ for each individual.
Please value what you prioritize in your work, such as job content, benefits, and work-life balance.
I think it is difficult for anyone to continue working without stress. Let’s work together as part of the team to support Kurashiki while skillfully relying on those around us, rather than bearing everything alone.
Conclusion
I had a rigid image of local government organizations, but through the interview with Soeda, I was able to experience the friendly atmosphere of the workplace.
Kurashiki City has the catchphrase "We are one team!" in its recruitment brochure. The environment that supports not only the troubles of citizens but also those of staff members surely contributes to a comfortable working environment.
This interview made me realize that the mutual support among staff members is what supports the development of the city of Kurashiki.
I look forward to watching Soeda's efforts to support citizens and ensure a safe and secure living environment in the future.
Back issues of the Kurashiki Work Stories by Young People
Data of Kurashiki City
| Name | Kurashiki City |
|---|---|
| Address | 640 Nishinakada, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | Kurashiki City Personnel Division 086-426-3141 |
| Homepage | Kurashiki City Homepage |
