To apply for TEFL jobs worldwide, start by ensuring you possess an internationally-accredited TEFL certificate. This certification is a key criterion for securing English teaching positions, both abroad and online. While navigating through job opportunities, from urban hubs to serene beach resorts, previous teaching or volunteer engagements can provide a competitive edge. Although requirements can differ based on regional demands, a strategic approach to job hunting combined with the right credentials can pave the way to your ideal TEFL teaching position.
Table of Contents
How do I apply for TEFL jobs online?
What are the pros and cons of applying for TEFL jobs online?
What are the pros and cons of using a TEFL recruitment company?
What about national TEFL recruitment programs?
What are the pros and cons of applying for TEFL jobs locally?
Should I take a TEFL course in the country where I want to work?
Should I use more than one method of TEFL job hunting?
How do I apply for TEFL jobs online?
To apply for TEFL jobs online, begin by visiting reputable TEFL job boards showcasing positions from around the world. Regions like Asia, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe often have a heightened demand for English teachers and may offer positions without the prerequisite of in-person interviews. After identifying a suitable position, complete the provided online application form or submit your CV/resume. Once submitted, patiently wait for a response. Successful applicants are usually invited for an interview, which is commonly conducted over Skype or even telephone.
What are the pros and cons of applying for TEFL jobs online?
The great benefit of this method is the security you get by having a job already in place before you leave your home country. On the downside there is always a risk in accepting a position without actually seeing where you will be working or meeting your fellow staff members. The best advice here is to ensure that the contract is very clear on important issues such as salary, working hours, contract length and issues involving early termination of your employment. In the worst case scenario that the job is not all you hoped it would be, you will at least be in a good position to look for new employment from within the country.
What are the pros and cons of using a TEFL recruitment company?
Utilizing a TEFL recruitment company offers both advantages and drawbacks. The pros include job security prior to leaving your home country and assistance with complex procedures like obtaining visas, work permits, and handling other essential paperwork, especially for positions in regions such as the Middle East and Asia. However, there are cons to consider: some TEFL recruitment agencies may not maintain high standards of integrity. It is crucial to conduct thorough research, review their reputation, and understand the contract's terms in its entirety before committing.
What about national TEFL recruitment programs?
National TEFL recruitment programs, sponsored by certain governments, can be an excellent avenue for aspiring English teachers. Notably, the JET Program in Japan and the EPIK Program in South Korea stand out. These programs annually recruit a significant number of teachers for their state schools. However, due to their prestige and benefits, they are highly competitive. Prospective applicants must fulfill specific criteria to increase their chances of acceptance.
What are the pros and cons of applying for TEFL jobs locally?
Being in the country where you are looking for work clearly has many advantages over applying from abroad. This approach generally provides many more options than you will find online and also allows you to visit the school and talk to current teachers before you make any decisions. Applying for jobs locally can be a great way to land a job in any country worldwide and is realistically the only way in certain regions such as Latin America and parts of Europe where few jobs are posted online. Unfortunately this approach does require adequate funds to see you through to your first paycheck, and it is hard to know how long that might be.
Should I take a TEFL course in the country where I want to work?
Opting for an in-class TEFL certification in the country where you aim to teach has its merits. Undertaking a course locally not only acclimatizes you to the new surroundings but also provides first hand insights into the regional employment dynamics for English teachers. Furthermore, many of these courses offer job placement assistance, which can be a game-changer when embarking on your teaching journey.
Should I use more than one method of TEFL job hunting?
Of course, you are not restricted to using only one method of finding a teaching position. Once you have decided on a region you could sign-up for a TEFL course in that area, contact recruitment companies to see if they have any openings and also send off your CV/resume to jobs you have found online. The more options you explore, the better chance you will have of landing the perfect teaching job to suit your plans.
