Window Sitter

In Japan, there's a subtle but widespread workplace practice designed to quietly push unwanted employees out the door-known informally as becoming a "window sitter."

Employees suddenly find themselves receiving no work, assignments, or invitations to meetings.

They're effectively frozen out, isolated from colleagues, and left feeling useless and undervalued.

This passive-aggressive tactic aims to make the employee voluntarily resign due to discomfort and lack of purpose.

Since companies rarely fire staff directly, this approach helps maintain the company's reputation and avoids legal complications.

Although controversial, the practice persists, often leaving foreign employees puzzled and distressed.

For those unaware, suddenly being ignored or sidelined could indicate you're being encouraged to leave.

Understanding this practice can help foreigners in Japan recognize the signs early and decide on their next steps.