From Job Failure to Behind the Scenes of Television: Meeting a Researcher

My main job is working as a researcher for TV, YouTube, and online programs. Additionally, since I can speak some English, I've been involved in English-Japanese translation work, though not extensively now. I've also written narration scripts and worked as a scriptwriter, for example, writing narration scripts for YouTube or articles. Leveraging my English skills, I've also been freelancing as a guide for foreigners or assisting at exhibitions.

It was more out of curiosity and life circumstances, things just happened. It was more about needing money, and as I continued doing it, it somehow turned into this kind of work.

In almost all TV programs, whether they are dramas, variety shows, information programs, or news, there is a researcher. For example, in a variety show where they go around town, when a celebrity enters a ramen shop or a gourmet restaurant, it's usually because the researcher has found that place and obtained permission for the shoot. Researchers gather information on recommended spots or experts for commentary in news programs, which they then send to directors or producers. This information is used by directors or writers to develop scripts or plans. Researchers exist in almost all programs.

During my graduate school days, when I couldn't find a job, I aimed for well-known TV stations or film companies but failed. Then, I found an office recruiting broadcast writers online, which piqued my interest. After sending my resume and passing the interview, I started as a researcher, which is a stepping stone to becoming a broadcast writer. Now, I mainly work as a researcher but also take on writer-like jobs when they come, working in a hybrid manner.

In documentary or reenactment drama programs, figuring out what will appeal to producers or directors is very difficult. Each has different tastes, but generally, the base of the program is important. For reenactment dramas, how surprising the world is can be crucial. Focusing on what surprises the producer or director and aligning with their tastes, which can be influenced by ratings or current trends, is challenging. Ultimately, it's about appealing to the viewers, but first, you have to pass the directors and producers. Balancing what you think viewers will like with what producers and directors will accept is a tough part.

When a story or idea I've pitched gets aired on national TV and celebrities react to it, or when a reenactment drama based on my idea is broadcast, it's very satisfying. Checking the reactions on the internet or SNS and seeing positive feedback is incredibly joyful. Knowing that a large number of people are watching something I've contributed to makes me feel proud.

The fun part is becoming knowledgeable about various things. Whether it's gourmet food, investment, or scary stories, I get to learn about a wide range of topics, which naturally makes me more aware of world situations or current trends in Japan.

I feel pressure when my ideas or pitches don't get used for a long time. As a freelancer, if you don't produce results, you can be let go. I've experienced this several times over my 16 years as a freelancer. If my ideas aren't getting aired for about a month, I start to worry about my contract, feeling the pressure to produce results.

Honestly, I don't really separate them. I usually wake up around noon, eat, start working from home or the library, handle chores during free time, and work until the early morning. I do this seven days a week, only stepping out for necessary errands like going to a beauty clinic or shopping. I don't separate work and life much; I'm not good at having fixed days off.

I can't imagine not working. If possible, I'd like to stay active until I die. I don't see the need to retire, and my work doesn't require it. As long as I can do something, whether it's research or translation, I want to keep working. It makes me feel alive.

I might continue as I am or do something completely different. I believe in studying hard and working hard when necessary. I don't plan my life in reverse; I prefer to go with the flow, trying new things as opportunities arise. I enjoy the changes and unpredictability of life.

The motivations for wanting to be a freelancer, like wanting freedom, high earnings, or fulfillment, can be naive. Freedom is an illusion; I work seven days a week with little freedom and variable income. It's important to work steadily, build a reputation, and gain trust rather than aiming for a quick success. It's about the long haul, not immediate big earnings. Focusing on sustainability and building a solid reputation is key.