Finding work abroad can seem like a minefield – all those different countries, options and contracts. And that’s before you even get started on visas! Here’s how to make a success of it.
So, you’re thinking about doing a TEFL course, and it won’t be too long before you’ve got your crisp new TEFL certificate in hand – but what are you going to do with it?! Get a teaching job abroad and jet off into the sunset – that’s what! But how to get there? Never fear: here are my five simple tips for TEFL job success:
- Tailor your resume to TEFL
We’re sorry to say it, but employers don’t want to know about that ska band you were in back in school. Keep it short and sharp – just cover what the job advertisement asks for in simple, direct language. Focus on skills that schools will value, like leadership, organisational and communication skills and how you’ve demonstrated you can use them.
- Do your course with a provider that has a job placement service
Get your TEFL course provider to do the legwork for you! Many companies have TEFL job placement services which will match you with relevant suitable contracts on completion of your course. Just make sure you’re eligible to use it before you sign on the dotted line!
- Always deal with a real person
Want to know where most of those applications addressed to ‘Sir’ or ‘Madam’ end up? That’s right… the bin! One of the best routes to job success is to build up personal relationships with recruiters to make sure your application ends up in the right person’s hands, rather than the trash.
- Use your mouse
The internet’s a marvellous thing – where before you might have had to traipse around a city handing out your CV, you can now get access to tens of thousands of TEFL jobs at the click of a mouse. Sites like www.eslcafe.com and www.tefl.com list positions from all over the world, which are just waiting for enthusiastic EFL teachers to fill them!
- Keep it simple
Very often the person who’ll be reading your job application won’t have English as their first language. They won’t want to tackle an application full of flowery language – they’ll want one that’s simple to read and direct. If they can’t immediately see that you’ve got the skills for the job your application will probably end up being binned!
And remember, if finding a TEFL job feels daunting, the odds are with you: there are 20,000 TEFL positions posted online every month, meaning fluent English speakers with TEFL certificates are like gold dust in many countries!
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The good thing about teaching kids is that they are very forgiving! And also heaps of fun! I'd say definitely go for the Business English course - but Im not sure the call for Medical/Nursing English (never seen jobs advertised or courses requiring this!) - definitely do your research to see if this would be worth your while! I'd think about also doing some summer school teaching if you want an intro to teaching kids in a manageable chunk (although it's hard work!). Yes, give the sales team a call on 1300 884 270 and they can give you all the details so you can make more of an informed choice about the internship! Happy decisions! x
THANK YOU so much. I am going to ring tomorrow and talk my options through with Claire or Melissa.
The Cert III (Teach International) is 110 hours and included in class, online and practical teaching components. My 2 electives were Teaching IELTS Preparation and Teaching English to Children. I chose those electives as I have had previous experience teaching adults and wanted to broaden my skill base.
My background is in health and senior managment within government so I thought of doing specialist certificates in Business English and Medical/Nursing English to capitalise on my knowledge and skills. I am confident and comfortable teaching adults as I have done both theory and clinical teaching in the past. I'm more hesitant with children as I just haven't had any experience with them...... Am I on the right track???
p.s I find it's best sometimes not to worry too much and just go for what u want! (It's really not as difficult as it seems and the experience is really worth it!).
Hey Katie,
You can still take part in the internship (at a reduced price because ur already qualified! Did you do a 120hour course? Where did u do it?). I guess it depends really with specialist certificates - do you want to focus on a particular area such as business teaching, or teaching to YLs? Also do you feel confident enough to teach without them? Is money an issue? Of course, it will obviously help in improving your teaching, but also it is possible to get jobs without them! However as it is your first teaching job you'll find your options are more limited - but once you have experience under your belt, more doors will open for you...which is why some people choose to do the internship first (and also for the practice!). Let me know if you have any more questions :-)
Wow thank you so much for this feedback - I was starting to think I was being foolish - its good to know from someone who's "been there, done that". The China internship looks absolutely perfect for a good start in this major life change (for me) but I have already completed a Cert III in TESOL and the course included looks like it covers the same things I've done. I was thinking that perhaps I would go on and do some specialist certificates to enhance the qualifications I've already got. Given your vast experience in the industry what do you think??? This is getting harder and harder.....
Hey Katie,
I have to say I've taught in 4 countries now and fully appreciate the first company I went with. There's so much to do isn't there what with visa's, accommodation, new job, job conditions, flights, pick up, language barriers etc....the list goes on! The first company I went with sorted all this out, and I took comfort in the fact I got to go with other new teachers (ready made friends and a support network!). So I'd definitely say be wise where you are choosing and make sure you choose somewhere where you will get the support you need as a new teacher to TEFL. You should also check out the China Internship...there are a few ladies I have met recently on here who have decided to go. If you want to network here are their links on chalkboard!
http://www.tefl-chalkboard.com/kimhumes
http://www.tefl-chalkboard.com/janelloyd
http://www.tefl-chalkboard.com/melek
Trying to use all 5 tips but am getting overwhelmed by all the different options, countries, contracts etc. Initially I was all set for Vietnam and am still pursing options there BUT have now considered that perhaps it might be best if I do my first placement somewhere that includes accommodation given I am travelling solo.
What has been the experience for other single solo women?? I dont want my first placement to end up a disaster and leave me totally disillusioned as I truly believe that TESOL is for me.....China is looking interesting but WHERE in that massive country should one consider.....Oh decisions, decisions, decisions...
Very helpful! Thank you so much!
Which countries have you taught in? the one on your profile picture is in asia but i am not sure where...
thank you!
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