Hello Everyone,
As a non-native English speaker I am wondering, does it become a big obstacle while searching for a job? Most course providers say it is not, but I would love to hear from a non-natives who are teaching, or have teached already, or just got a job. Are there many of you out there? Was it difficult and do I need PERFECT English? Mine is pretty good, but I do not sound like a native speaker, I am worried because of my accent. Any information will be highly appreciated. I can't wait to live my dream in Thailand!
Regards,
Iskra :)

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Hi Hebat, I am not teaching yet, still in London and saving money, but planing to head to Thailand in January. I did 140 hours with i-to-i and decided to do a CELTA in Chang Mai. The provider I choose offers a job on completion of the course and even though I read a few negative comments about them, I still think it's a good way to start, being inexperienced and non-native. I am sure we will manage, even if it takes a bit more effort. Good luck!
Hi Iskra,
Are you already working in Thailand?
I'm also a non-native speaker and also planning to teach in Thailand. I've started the TEFL course in August this year, 120 hrs certificate in pocket already. Still need 40 hrs yes I took some extra modules.
I've read many things and have seen many vacancies in which non-native speakers also can apply.
I've also been in contact with the director of a TEFL training facility in Thailand. According to him non-native speakers do stand a chance.
I think it might takes more effort to get a job but I have no doubt I will succeed. (Positive thinking)
But what about you? I'm curious if you've managed to find a job. If yes any tips would be appreciated.
Good luck.
Bangkok is an amazing crazy place! But I am thinking after living in London for more than 3 years I will probably feel better in a place like Chiang Mai or some islan...fingers crossed!:)
I am in Bangkok at the moment. I thought this would be a good place to start my EFL teaching career and it was definitely the right choice! Whilst it is a big busy city, I am only a bus ride away to a beautiful beach and chilled out mountains! It keeps me grounded and stops me having my head in the clouds too much! Haha!
Thanks for the encouragement Cassie! Oh, I can't wait to be there!:) I am working hard on my grammar, spelling and accent right now and hopefully I will be better by the time the interviews come. Where in Thailand are you? I have travelled there a bit, it is amazing!
I currently teach in Thailand and there are many jobs going for young female teachers. However I will be honest that your accent and the fact that you are non-native English may restrict you from getting some jobs! However that does not mean that you have no chance at all! So please do not despair!
Check out TEFL job sites such as www.ajarn.com and TEFL job board on i-to-i and you can see the kind of job offers that have available.
If I was you I would try not to shine too much of a spotlight on your resume about you not being a non-native English speaker and then when you get the interview, that is your chance to shine and prove to them that you're definitely worth employing!
Good luck! :)
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