Job Discussion Forums

bananamiruku · Joined: 16 May 2012 Posts: 11

I'm getting a little overwhelmed, so I'd like some advice from people that actually know the ESL market in Japan. My family and friends are not very helpful in this respect.

There is a particular job I wanted, as I thought it filled all of my criteria (Late summer start, pay at or above 250K, small school, etc). However, after receiving the job offer, I feel as though there were one or two red flags during our negotiations. The school manager suggested that due to changing visa procedures, perhaps I should come over on a tourist visa, then they will apply for the work visa from inside Japan. When I said that I would not work on a tourist visa she said, "Fair enough," so I'm not sure she had the intention of working me during this time .. but it still made me uncomfortable. Plus, that is just more unpaid time in Japan I need to save for.

She also mentioned that she wasn't sure about key / deposit money (as I will be just taking the apartment of teacher that is leaving). Kind of another bummer.

I've already turned down two other offers. My remaining options are WinBe, AEON, and a school in Gunma. But I still have to do my interviews for those schools. Should I just go with the one despite the red flags? Or should I hold off and keep interviewing?

Vince · Joined: 05 May 2003 Posts: 559 Location: U.S.

I'm not up on the visa change she's talking about, so I'll leave that to somebody else.

I would ask her to get back to me with a definite answer about the key money. That's part of your relocation expense and not an insignificant amount of money, so that shouldn't be left up in the air.

bananamiruku · Joined: 16 May 2012 Posts: 11

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

If you are taking over an apartment from another teacher, the key money has already been paid ages ago. Security deposit might have been returned, though, so you would be obligated for that.

TokyoLiz · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Posts: 1548 Location: Tokyo, Japan

Three red flags - the manager misrepresents the change in foreigner registration procedure that starts in July, wants you to come on a tourist visa, and wants money from you.

I would forget her phone number.

bananamiruku · Joined: 16 May 2012 Posts: 11

Thanks for the replies. I've been emailing with a current teacher, who does have some complaints, but overall does like working there.

I'm considering insisting on a work visa, and if they don't comply I will not accept. Im not wild about my other prospects if I turn down another job offer.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

I know the job market for entry level work is tough, but just how many places have you applied to or considered? Your OP only states 4. Realize that you have to work the percentages.

If you limit yourself to one region or city, then of course you tighten the noose. Do what you can to cast as wide a net as possible.

bananamiruku · Joined: 16 May 2012 Posts: 11