For a long time English has been the most spoken language in the world, and more and more people start learning it each year. Thanks to this fact, there is a huge demand for ESL teachers. The good news is it doesn’t take much time to become one of them. Once you speak English fluently having the high level, you can learn how to help people to reach the same goal.
So, in order to teach English abroad you need only a bachelor’s degree and TEFL certification — not much to make your dreams come true. Previous experience isn’t necessary, but it will be your advantage. Keep in mind that it’s just the minimum you must fit, each country and school has their own requests.
As a TEFL-degree holder you can choose any country in the world to work in. Make your list of top 5 places, which seem to be wonderful for life, and we will help you to proceed.
There are significant steps you should know in order to pass a job interview.
How to make your teacher profile better?
It’s easy to create a typical teacher profile, but you want to get a cushy job, right? So, you must stand out from the crowd with outstanding page. You should add some photos and videos with you having lessons or hobbies, everything that can catch recruiter’s attention. It’s likely, you will have a phone call from a potential employer on the same day when your profile is seen. Don’t wait for a question to add more detailed information about yourself, do it in advance. Don’t forget to add recommendation letters or students’ reviews if you have those. List all your accomplishments and experience in teaching to seem more relevant candidate. Be sure that everything is clear and easy to read and understand. Your page must be brilliant and memorable.
Looking for a dream job
Now you can start searching interesting available positions on the Internet. There are so many opportunities as for newcomers as for experienced teachers. More than 40 countries offer scholarships, internships, paid volunteering, online and offline positions. The abundance of offers may confuse, so it’s better to answer the question: «What do you want?» You should decide what type of institution you want to work for, and what age of students are able to teach.
Such an amazing chance to get international experience must be one of the best decisions in your life. That is why, it is important to make the right choice. Think calmly what are waiting for from this adventure.
When it comes to teaching, there is the difference between teaching people of different ages. If you like playing active games and singing songs, probably, teaching children is your call. However, if you follow critical thinking in real life, working with adults is the right choice.
Before making any decision, mull over the position requirements and think whether they seem right up your alley.
Applying
Keep in mind that application process takes some time and energy, so be patient and apply for as many intriguing positions as you want. After a few interviews you will feel more confident and will know how to answer even some tricky questions. Make sure that your resume fits the requirements of the position. Recruiters can understand whether you fit or not even at the first glance at your CV.
In order to have more information about labor market for ESL teachers, we have selected 5 countries, which hired most of the ESL teachers last year:
- Spain;
- Hong Kong;
- China;
- Japan;
- Vietnam.
It means that chances are to start your teaching career abroad in one of those countries. Check them out in terms of salary and work conditions.
Interview preparation
Once you have submitted your resume, be ready to get some mails and phone call with suggestion that you have an interview. The number of interview stages depends on the position and the country you are applying for. Anyway, there is nothing to worry about. Start preparing instead of getting nervous.
Firstly, you need to find and read information about the school you are having the interview with. It is easy to find on the official page of that institution. Because, it is likely that it is going to be its first question: «What do you know about us?»
There are many tricky questions you may hear at the interview. However, it’s better to keep focus on the basic. Weight up your strengths and weaknesses to answer them properly.
There are some typical interview questions for ESL teachers:
- Tell us about yourself.
- Why have you decided to become English teacher?
- What do you do, when a student has struggles with grammar/vocabulary?
- Why do you want to work in our school?
- What is a good teacher?
- Describe yourself in 5 words.
- Tell about the most difficult situation you have ever faced in the classroom.
Just show your fondness for the language and your desire to help people. Having TEFL certificate and those personal traits, you can prove that you are a decent candidate. Demonstrate confidence, and don’t forget to smile. Even if the first attempt goes wrong, you will have more opportunities to express yourself better.
Some bits and bobs
As soon as you get a job offer, you have to prepare all documents in order to get a work visa. Visa regulations change from country to country, but usually, everything boils down to a degree and TEFL certification. As usual, employers willingly help teachers to obtain the visa and work permit reimbursing some expenses. You must be well-organized to provide all documents on time.
After signing the contract, it’s time to pack your bag and book flight tickets to the destination. Depending on the terms, the school may reimburse your flight tickets and even provide them to you. However, if you are in charge of booking it, be sure you have checked the date of departure.
Now, you are ready to start a new page in your life. Not only will you make new friends and get amazing experience, but also travel. Be open to what is ahead. What country do you consider for work? Share your opinion in the comments section below.
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