Job Discussion Forums

TransientTefler · Joined: 07 Aug 2015 Posts: 16

Hello Guys and Dolls,

I am a newbie and considering a move to Japan.

I have tons of teaching experience in various countries but I am guessing that not much of that will be of use in Japan, from what I've read on here.

I get the impression the Japanese like young spritely teachers - is there hope for me still?

TransientTefler · Joined: 07 Aug 2015 Posts: 16

Oh dear. I just read this ...

http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewtopic.php?t=111428

rtm · Joined: 13 Apr 2007 Posts: 1003 Location: US

marley'sghost · Joined: 04 Oct 2010 Posts: 255

Don't worry too much about being a crusty old, 40 something. I'm in my 40s and I get by. Some places want a bouncy, bubbly, happy thing to edu-tain the munchkins. Some places want someone more serious and professional. That being said, Japan is not the go-to location for the real, mercenary EFLers. The yen is in the toilet, salaries are down, competition is up. If you are looking to make real money, or have a family or other obligations besides scratching your travel bug, might want to look else where. But if you are just looking to "do Japan" for a couple of years, don't let the doom-sayers get you down.

TransientTefler · Joined: 07 Aug 2015 Posts: 16

TransientTefler · Joined: 07 Aug 2015 Posts: 16

rxk22 · Joined: 19 May 2010 Posts: 1629

TransientTefler · Joined: 07 Aug 2015 Posts: 16

Is it possible to turn up in Tokyo in September dressed in a suit, search for/ find a job and then sort the work visa out from that end?

aviator1x1 · Joined: 26 Oct 2009 Posts: 12

Hello Everyone,

Here is my comment on starting at a late age in Japan. I will share my experience.

I received my MA in TESOL when I was 42. Prior to receiving my MA, I had no ESL or EFL teaching experience. I was about to get laid off from my career job and decided to switch, so I decided on TESOL.

After two years of gaining experience at local city colleges and language schools in the U.S.., I started applying to various jobs overseas. Some called but most didn't. One university in Japan did call however, and I went through the whole process and received a full time contracted offer with benefits. This happened at the age of 44. I think this would be the equivalent of winning the lottery for someone like me.

In short, it is not impossible to obtain a good offer in Japan at an older age. Even some private language schools in their job advertisements are looking for people with business and vocational experience. If you are coming from an non-EFL/ESL teaching background, you have to emphasize on your experience as a corporate worker, tradesman, or businessman.

I would also like to make one final point. For those starting at an older age in Japan, most of your colleagues will be at least ten years younger than you. In my department, most are in their late 20s to early 30s, and they have several years of experience in addition to their MAs. There are only three of us that are in our 40s.

Please do not get discouraged with your age and do your best to sell yourself.
Good luck!

TransientTefler · Joined: 07 Aug 2015 Posts: 16

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

TransientTefler · Joined: 07 Aug 2015 Posts: 16

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

Without an MA or higher qualification, university teaching is not available to you. You would start at the bottom - ALT or eikaiwa work.

I recommend the JET Program, too, as the age limit has been relaxed. You'd likely be a good candidate with your experience and maturity.

TransientTefler · Joined: 07 Aug 2015 Posts: 16

TransientTefler · Joined: 07 Aug 2015 Posts: 16