Job Discussion Forums

[mopo22]

Hi everyone, new to this forum so I apologize if something like this has been asked before. I'm just in the process of applying to teach in China, looking for work in Xiamen in particular, as my boyfriend has accepted a research position at Xiamen University. I was wondering if it would be good or bad or ok to mention this in my cover letter, as part of my reason for applying to these schools? Some have told me that schools like teachers who come with partners as it makes them more likely to stay. Let me know what you think. Thanks so much!

[muffintop]

It's only useful if you're applying to the same school imo.

[Non Sequitur]

I think you should mention it but in an oblique way.
The Chinese are very hierarchical and if BFs role is in any way prestigious I'd put it in.
How about:
'My particular interest in Xiamen is because my partner has accepted a position as a PhD researcher at nnnn. Working at your college means we can experience China and Xiamen together'.
They're parochial too so a repeat of the city name helps.

[wangdaning]

I would shy away from saying boyfriend, partner is a good choice. Boyfriend, to Chinese, implies nothing is settled in the relationship (know you not and not at all doubting your relationship, just pointing out what perceptions will be).

It might be helpful to mention in an interview, but I would say leave it out of the letter. Other things that draw you to China and teaching would be better.

[zactherat]

Are there any advantages to mentioning your relationship?
If not, don't bring it up.

I would assume that most recruiters would interpret
"I'm coming because of my boyfriend"
as
'If he leaves, or if they break up, then so will she. Unstable. Next candidate."

[twilothunder]

Agree with zactherat.

Also consider this possible scenario in the HR office...
"This one wants to work here to be near her boyfriend."
"Oh, that's great, we can knock a grand a month off the offer we would have given her and she'll probably take it."

[mopo22]

Thanks for the input, everyone! It does seem best to leave it out of the letters for now, but to mention it (in a serious way) in the interview.

[doogsville]

[mopo22]

doogsville, that was my first reaction too, until a friend told me to definitely mention it since schools in China (according to her) love couples traveling together. So I figured I'd check and see whether it would give me some advantage or not.