Job Discussion Forums

Randal · Joined: 20 Jul 2004 Posts: 1

I'm an American that's been applying through the Internet for a teaching position in Tokyo, Japan. After 3 months of inquiries, none of the language schools have responded.

My education and experience should be adequate having an MA in philosophy, a Japan Times Advanced Certificate in ESL. I taught ESL in Nagoya from 1994 to 98 at high school, university, and business levels.

My hunch is that 45 year olds simply aren't considered. Are there exceptions?

I'd be happy to get a basic 250,000 yen a month full time job with a year visa.

Gordon · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 5309 Location: Japan

My hunch is that many of the places you're getting turned down by think you are overqualified. Sometimes they want someone who hasn't been to Japan before. They may think you will jump ship once in Japan and will find a better job. Try downplaying your experience and see what happens. Just a thought.

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

I agree. Got my 1st job teaching at 41 in Japan. Still working 6 years later.

Why not try to pursue the same level of jobs as before? They are higher pay.