How to Find a Job Teaching English Abroad

Looking for a job teaching abroad is both an exciting and intimidating proposition. With the abundance of information available on the web, it can often be difficult to parse through the noise and judge the reputable from disreputable, hype from reality and genuine job from outright scam. In what other situation would you accept a job without actually visiting your future place of employment? The background research you perform is of paramount importance. The good news is that it’s not very difficult to properly inform your self and make an educated decision. With that in mind, we’ve created a checklist of items every job seeker should perform before accepting a teaching job abroad:

What type of teaching job are you looking for?

This is, of course, a very broad question. However, you need to make a list of what YOU are looking for before starting your search. Some questions you will want to answer for yourself:

• What age group do I want to teach?
• Do I want to teach a 9-5pm type schedule, or an afternoon/evening schedule?
• Is weekend work non-negotiable for me?
• Is there a minimum base salary I need to pay bills back home?

The above questions are just a few suggestions. Each person has different priorities and expectations. You won’t find the perfect position and it’s important to be flexible. Decide what is non-negotiable for you and what you are willing to be flexible about. This will be different for everyone, of course!

Make a List of Your Top Three Country Destinations

This could have been included in the above paragraph, but it’s important enough to consider separately. Many of you already know exactly where you want to go. For others, this is a difficult question. Each country comes with a unique set of variables. Lifestyle is a very important consideration. Are you OK with living in developing country? You might think so, but don’t fool yourself: Life will be difficult. Think carefully about what this really means before committing yourself. Each of you reading this will have a unique set of interests and goals. That’s what makes life interesting. However, be realistic with yourself about what you can handle before committing. A healthy combination of enthusiasm and realism is ideal.

Compare and Contrast Programs

Some of you will be extremely excited and want to accept the 1st job offered to you. Others will want to compare twenty programs. Something in between is the healthiest approach. GO! Teach Abroad has listings for every program, in every country in the world. Spend some time researching programs and matching them with your goals and preferences. Start your research at least 3-6 months before your departure date. Don’t rush into accepting a job right away. However, you also don’t want to drive yourself (and the programs!) crazy by over thinking your options. Do your research in an organized and efficient way, and then accept a position you are excited about!

ALWAYS speak with a teacher at the school first:

All good schools will be happy to put you in touch with current teachers at their school. In fact, they will encourage it. If a school doesn’t want to put you in touch with their teachers, this should raise some serious red flags!

Ask to speak with at least one current teacher at any school you are considering (two would be best!). Like anything in life, you will hear the good, bad and everything in between. This will allow you to make an informed decision, and nothing is more important.

Do a quick web search using the name of your school:

Schools will be performing web searches to learn more about your background. You should do the same. Better yet, type in "SCHOOL NAME + scam”. See what you come up with. It’s the only way to be sure!

Can you fully commit to your contract?

Most teach abroad programs require a one-year commitment. Don’t sign a contract unless you are 100% sure you can follow through on this commitment. Breaking your contract would affect a lot of people: Your students, their parents, your co-teachers, the school itself. If you aren’t 100% sure you can finish your contract, think twice (and then a third time!).

Some Final Thoughts

Find the right job teaching English abroad

Be excited… very excited, but do your research first! You don’t want to end up teaching in a bad situation because you didn’t do your due diligence properly. Teaching abroad is bound to be one of the most memorable experiences of your life. But do some research before you sign on the dotted line and buy a place ticket. You, and your students, will be happy you did!

NOTE: GO! Teach Abroad is the perfect place to start your research. Research every program, in every country in the world, complete with ratings, reviews and more. Remember to give back to the community by leaving your own rating/review if you have previously participated in a program!