Teaching ESL - 6 Tips to Ensure You Get The Position You Are Looking For.

In today’s day and age, it is becoming a prerequisite for success to be able to speak good conversational English. It has become the worlds most widely-used language used for business. Because of this, there are MANY countries in search of those who are qualified and can effectively teach English as a second language.

Experiencing life in another country, learning their culture by full immersing yourself in it, is only broadened when you can support your adventure by landing a short term (6 months to a year) position as an ESL Teacher in the country you would most like to see.

There are a few steps you can take that will ensure that the job you get, is the one you want.

1. Generally speaking, once you put your feelers out there, you will get replies almost instantly that the facility that you inquired about wants you and they want you NOW! But don’t be too quick to accept the offer. If you can, it would be better if you could arrange to TALK with one of the existing teachers there. That way you can get the REAL truth about the facility. Whether they pay you on time and at the rate agreed upon, how the accommodations are, what other expenses the teacher is expected to incur, what the work load REALLY is, etc…

2. If you REALLY want the position, act and dress like a professional. You are trying to get a job as a TEACHER! Don’t go in sweats or torn jeans. Dress for success and you will get that job. SPECIALLY IN THAILAND!

Men - Wear clean, neatly pressed slacks, shirt and tie, and dress shoes. LOOK PROFESSIONAL!

Women - Wear a skirt or slacks that are neatly pressed, blouse, nylons and dress shoes. NO TANK TOPS OR BIKINI’S!

3. Make sure that you have ALL your documentation with you when you go to the interview. They WILL be asking to see it all!

a. TEFL/TESOL certificates if you have them.

b. passport.

c. copies of your college/university degree(s).

d. Original sealed transcripts are required in some countries.

e. and of course your resume.

The more information you have, the better chances you have.

4. Try to have your TESOL/TEFL/ESL/CELTA or other ESL certification done before you apply. By doing so, you are ensuring yourself of landing a position in one of the best ESL teaching jobs. The certificates are not difficult to get. I found mine in my local newspaper classified ads section. They are not expensive and don’t take long to complete. For instance, the CELTA course is the most respected (Certificate in Teaching English Language to Adults) and is only a month long course and can be taken at the Cambridge University at any one of over 230 locations around the world.

5. If you have been a scout leader or den mother for Scouts or Guides, then be sure to let them know about it along with any other teaching experience you might have. Especially the teaching experience you have had involving children. You will be surprised how important this will be when you are applying. Especially if you are looking for a position teaching ESL to middle school students.

6. Lastly, make sure that you do your homework. Familiarize yourself with the culture of the country you are going to. Know what is taboo and what actions are frowned upon. The last thing you want to do is to do anything that would upset your students or their parents. Also remember that if you have any questions about this topic, ask your fellow ESL teachers. They are your best source for advice in this matter.