Job Discussion Forums

[cmp45]

Just curious to know how many teachers that frequent this forum are currently working or have in the past found work by direct hire or through a recruiter? Perhaps state why you picked this route and how it worked out for you?

I have never used a recruiter- have never even considered it as an option. I have always found work by applying directly. Three different jobs and each one turned out well. No serious issues or complaints.

[SK2012]

Hi,

Have accepted an initial offer to teach at University of Tubak. I went the direct route because I didn't have much confidence in what I was reading here, and in other forums, about recruiters. This will be my first ME job, I'm female, and I am looking forward to it (and I am aware of the challenges).

[nomad soul]

My previous teaching position in another Gulf country was via direct hire, as is my first/current teaching job here in the Kingdom. (I prefer to work legally and keep my dignity and some sense of sanity!) I'd interviewed in person with several Saudi universities at last year's TESOL Arabia and was hired on the spot by one.

I have several friends teaching in Saudi universities for recruiters and it ain't purty! I've used my bank account to wire transfer their money for them and have helped them purchase essential items because they don't have iqamas. A couple of my friends are done doing the "recruiter mambo" and are calling it quits this year. (I'm surprised they've lasted as long as they have.) Another friend has applied directly to a few unis and hopefully, will get into a work situation that's legal and a bit more secure.

[Muslim expat]

I have only worked through recruiters and this has been to maintain some flexibility until I got to know about places to work here. I find they generally treat me well and I have only seen them treat people badly when those people have treated them badly. I'm in a very good position as a Muslim. I have no personal debt, I don't deal with interest and I have a little money saved. I can then be understanding and patient when the pay is late or delayed for even 2 or 3 months. I have never been stiffed for my pay by a recruiter and I have always completed my contracts with them. If I have any problems I always discuss them calmly and without the name calling I have seen others engage in. Maybe this has something to do with my continuing to choose recruiters. I have seen direct hire teachers do overtime and not get paid, asked to pay their own travel and they will be reimbursed and they don't see any money for years and treated badly by administration personnel in the universities.

[ultraman111]

I have been hired directly by a leading energy company after being sourced from a recruitment company.....I assume they get their fee and after that Im a direct hire.

[scot47]

I think we have to differentiate between
1. Direct Hire
2. Recruiter
3. Contractor