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Teach business English ‘only when you have some experience’

Posted 01 Jun 2010

It is not wise for newly-qualified EFL teachers to explore TEFL job opportunities teaching business English, it has been claimed.

Ted Tucker, writing on his blog Ted’s TEFL Newbie, said that opting for any English for special purposes (ESP) classes should be avoided until one has some experience of EFL teaching.

While ESP lessons may pay more and some find them more enjoyable, having little or no experience in specific fields may make some EFL teachers unsuitable for the role.

"Businesses usually have a very focused aim as to what they want to accomplish and if you have little experience in the business world, you may have little understanding of what is required," Mr Tucker added.

Newly-qualified EFL teachers looking to cut their teeth in the industry may wish to look for TEFL jobs in Mexico or Ecuador, as both countries are good places to begin one’s career, according to the How to Learn German blog.
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Category: Teaching and Learning

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Spiwak432

I can see where he is coming from but I cannot solely agree with it. I am to start a job in September where various courses are taught: General English, ESP, Business English, and Young Learner. This is my first TEFL job. However, I am also finishing up my bachelor in International Business. True, that doesn't give "experience" for teaching Business English and I do not expect it too. But most schools provide a crash course for new employees. There are also a million and one resources, links, books, etc in helping any TEFL teacher of any level of experience to accomplish the goal. Most schools who want someone with experience will specify. If they do not, the needs of the students may not be so demanding that they feel comfortable letting a "newbie" teach them. My school knows I have no experience in the EFL world and were detailed to take me on and to help them teach those classes. So I think it is up to the school and the willingness of the teacher to know s/he might have huge hurtles to jump. But I think in the end it makes for a better teacher and gives the teacher the ability to challenge him/herself and become proficient at his/her new career path. I say if the "newbie" feels up to the challenge, then go for it. The "newbie" should be educated enough to know what he/she is capable of.

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