Job Discussion Forums

clifton10 · Joined: 21 Mar 2010 Posts: 71 Location: Jakarta

Hello,

I am an American teacher here in Tajikistan. I've been here since December, but found out quickly that this isn't the place for me. Well, for one thing the pay is VERY POOR (only 300USD a month) and the city I'm in is expensive in terms of food costs and trying to get out of here for holiday. Second, the accommodations aren't great - you'll freeze in the winter and sweat in the summer as there is no heat or air-con. In other words, I am getting burned out with this country.

I had an interview last week with a school in Moscow and am hoping to hear back from Turkey. Now the question is: What should I tell the interviewer when asked why I want to cut short my stay? My contract here last until December, but of course I can't stay here as I'm not able to save any money here. Any suggestions are welcomed.

And a word to the wise...if one wants to work in Central Asia, I would skip Tajikistan and go elsewhere. Ceers

nomad soul · Joined: 31 Jan 2010 Posts: 11454 Location: The real world

Something like: "This position is an excellent match for my skills and experience. I am not able to fully utilize them in my present job." And then go on to talk about how your experience would benefit their students' learning. Keep it professional---don't mention anything negative about your current employer nor your dissatisfaction with your living conditions.

clifton10 · Joined: 21 Mar 2010 Posts: 71 Location: Jakarta

Thank you. Hopefully that will work in my next interview.

dragonpiwo · Joined: 04 Mar 2013 Posts: 1650 Location: Berlin

I would tell them that I simply just can't survive on what I'm being paid. Don't knock the employer, just tell it as it is.

Big Worm · Joined: 02 Jan 2011 Posts: 171

Yeah, just be honest. Employers should totally understand that you have unacceptable living conditions and are basically working for free.

MuscatGary · Posted: Sun Jun 29, 2014 2:06 pm Post subject:

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

MuscatGary · Posted: Sun Jun 29, 2014 2:14 pm Post subject:

Janiny · Joined: 31 May 2008 Posts: 199

Clifton: If you were accepted for a position there, Saudi Arabia at least is sure to pay your air fare in (and out after your contract). I won't get into the disadvantages of life in the Magic Kingdom, there's plenty enough of that on this forum you can look at. However, the money is top shelf, and they are sure to provide air conditioning. Um, indoor heating is a moot point.

clifton10 · Joined: 21 Mar 2010 Posts: 71 Location: Jakarta

Nope, with the interviews I had, I did not mention pay, just other aspects. The school told me that Tajikistan was a cheap place to live-which it isn't as I now know. And another teacher is having the same issues about pay and living conditions(he arrived here only two weeks ago) and has asked the director to get him an air-con. As for for Saudi? The pay does sound great and I've applied to a couple of places with not much luck (my degree is not in English). I also like my freedom, but there is the saying: Money talks and sod walks Laughing