Finding a Teaching Job while Already in China

A job offer in China may seem appealing if it includes travel and living costs paid for. This is particularly true for individuals who are currently playing the role of a desk zombie to make ends meet in a country with a weak economy. Nevertheless, it is not always simple to look for a work when living abroad. Scams are unfortunately common in China, and many job postings look suspicious due to poor translation or outright fraud. Therefore, if you have the opportunity to do so, it is much more convenient to look for the ideal teaching position while you are already in China. Having been through the process myself, I hope the following advice may help you get a teaching position once you arrive in China.

While there may be some superficial similarities across institutions when seen online, each one has its own set of strengths, weaknesses, and culture that can only be experienced firsthand. Get thorough in the interview and don't let yourself be fobbed off with vague responses, even if you're enthusiastic about the position. Obviously, this is lot simpler to do in person than it is on the internet.

You should have a firm grasp of the following before making your final school choice:

Educators and their Class Discussions

Who will you be instructing, exactly? And at what ages and degrees of expertise? Where will you put these lessons? Do you have free reign to design your own lessons, or do you need to stick to what's required by the school? Whether you're a seasoned educator or searching for your first teaching position in China, these are crucial concerns.

Location and personnel

Is the school's location convenient for you? Is there a nice place to have lunch close by, or is there a decent cafeteria at the school? When do you need to leave the house? How do students generally feel about the school? You should steer clear of English First, Web International, and Meten if you're not looking for a very structured and regimented corporate environment. However, it's important to keep in mind that large institutions are often well managed and pay on time. Do you think you could get along with the rest of the faculty and staff? A local teaching assistance may be supplied if so.

One major benefit of actually going to a school is that you may ask to sit in on a class if you're interested. What you learn here will give you an excellent idea of the culture and the challenges you could face if you decide to take a job.

Requirements and Benefits

When you go in for an interview, it's important to read the standard contract very carefully, even if it's not the one you'll end up signing. Is the cost of obtaining a work visa something that the university takes care of? What happens if I break the agreement before it's over? How flexible are your working hours and schedule? Outside of the official holidays in China, how many days of yearly vacation will you be allotted? What kind of housing or other advantages can you expect to receive?

Remember that once you're in China, most of the terms of your teaching position are up for discussion and negotiation. Do not be afraid to negotiate for a better income or for benefits not included in the contract, such as an annual ticket home, even if you are not a natural-born haggler. Schools in China need you more than you need them, on average. The universities I met with seldom denied my demands outright.

In your search for English teaching positions in China, bear in mind the many positive aspects that have drawn you to this profession. Whether you're here to earn and save money, develop your resume for a job in teaching, or make some extra cash on the side while traveling and learning Chinese should inform your final selection. Make sure your hunt and the agreement you sign match your intended outcome.

Before leaving their home countries, many individuals sign contracts to work as teachers in China. The odds are substantially more in your favor if you arrive to this page before committing anything to paper, like I did. Find the proper program and financial arrangement by taking your time.