NTT East Triples Number of SE Position Applicants in Five Years

NTT East, a Japanese telecommunications operator and part of the NTT Group, has achieved significant growth in interest from young IT professionals. Over five years, the number of applications from graduates for system engineer (SE) positions has more than tripled. This success stems from a long-term strategy that remained effective regardless of personnel changes in recruitment.

The key driver of change was the company’s leadership recognizing that NTT East was no longer perceived as an attractive employer for students. To address this, a reform program was launched, including employer brand updates, active engagement with universities, and adapting the hiring process to meet youth expectations. Notably, four recruitment managers changed over two years, yet this did not hinder the strategy’s implementation.

As part of the reforms, the company emphasized transparent career prospects, professional growth opportunities, and corporate culture. NTT East also actively participated in student-focused events, showcasing real case studies and projects to highlight the appeal of working at the company. These measures not only increased the number of applications but also improved candidate quality.