A new style that balances
work and childrearing
Misa Sekiguchi
Tomorrowland Lumine Kitasenju Store
Sales Professional
Joined in 2008
Text and Edit / Yukiko Shinmura
Photo / Sho Ueda
I love clothes, but I’m not great at customer service
I am shy, so even though I love shopping, I hate it when store staff approach me. Shopping is supposed to be a fun experience, but I get nervous just entering a store. I wanted to overcome that fear and wondered if going into sales would change anything, which is why I challenged myself with this job.
When I actually started working, it was surprisingly relaxing, and I realized that I didn't need to get so stressed. I was bracing but hadn’t really needed to. Now, stores are a very comfortable place. I looked at myself objectively and realized that I actually like talking to people. However, when I serve customers, I keep in mind that some of them are like the old me.
I got to where I am now after taking maternity leave
I made a career out of what I love, so when I got pregnant, the general idea was to return afterward. I wasn’t sure exactly how I would return, but I went on maternity leave around the time that another coworker was returning from hers, so I was able to ask her for advice. Now, even more employees are taking maternity leave and then coming back with flexible work styles based on certain times and days.
I was a bit nervous, but coming back to work reminded me how much I enjoy my job. I’ve got a passion for fashion! And helping customers is fun! Since having a child, connecting with customers has become even more meaningful. I have childrearing and work. I have a tight schedule, but sales keep my on my toes because something new awaits each day. I am also very grateful for the support from my colleagues.
Staying meek and true to myself
I'm conservative and don't really put myself out there. I'm not the type to be confident in myself either. I just want to make customers who visit each day happy and find my own way of doing things while working. Especially since after returning from maternity leave I have reduced hours, so I want to do my best in the limited amount of time that I have.
This year, the head office approached me about getting certified as a Sales Professional. Even though I tried not to stand out, people still noticed me. I was genuinely happy to be evaluated. Somehow, ten years have already passed since entering the world of fashion. Next, I want to help those under me by applying my experiences so far.
Misa Sekiguchi
Tomorrowland Lumine Kitasenju Store
Sales Professional
Joined in 2008
She originally worked at the Tomorrowland Lumine Kitasenju store. After taking a year and a half of maternity leave, she returned to work. Even though she is working reduced hours, she is still one of the top sales performers nationwide. She received in-house certification as a sales professional in 2023. Currently, she is also helping with mentoring the staff under her.