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Anne0
Joined: 08 Nov 2005
Posts: 22
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 Posted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 9:00 pm Post subject: GEOS interview |
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Some of you may know me from the "thinking of goin to Berlitz" thread. I had applied to a bunch of school to help get over being rejected by NOVA. That was really the only way I was going to feel better. Anyways GEOS contacted me for an interview Jan 14-16th. I was wondering if anyone has been on a GEOS interview before. Any tips would be very helpful to me.
Thanks in advance! |
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king kakipi
Joined: 16 Feb 2004
Posts: 353
Location: Australia
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Anne0
Joined: 08 Nov 2005
Posts: 22
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| Posted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 5:27 pm Post subject: |
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I did like 3 times and it came up with a bunch of thread about NOVA interviews and GEOS vs. AEON. I found nothing specifically about the GEOS interview process the first 3 times I searched. Not saying it's not there but sometimes search engines don't give yout the results you need even when you type in the word GEOS.
OMG I just looked at the thread. The last post was inf reaking april APRIL does anyone realize that when doing a search in november all of the threads with posts that were made between april and november would be put in front of that thread!
Thanks for the thread anyways, it IS a big help. |
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Glenski
Joined: 15 Jan 2003
Posts: 12844
Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN
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| Posted: Tue Nov 29, 2005 11:23 pm Post subject: |
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As always, this is my response (other than search the forum). The following are collections of what others have written on their experience in the GEOS interviews.
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First experience
I originally came over to Japan with GEOS and went through their 3-day process, however, that was more than seven years ago so I'll give you the basic gist as I remember it- it may have changed since my days.
DAY 1- Usually the shortest of the three. A couple hours long with a series of different interviews with different people- both individually and in groups. In my opinion this is basically a personality test- they just want to see if you've got the right attitude for them. However, I do remember taking a short test of grammar and international trivia, but basically if they like ya, they'll invite you back for the next day's "interview".
DAY 2- If you got invited back, this will be a FULL DAY of GEOS indoctrination- the company, the business side, the methodology materials, etc... etc... If I remember correctly it will include a lot of activities, more "interviews", etc. Again this day they're still trying to weed people out.
DAY 3- Again by invite only, at the end of day 2 you'll probably be asked to plan a lesson and then "teach" it to a "student" on this day. If you make it through, they'll extend a provisional offer of employment.
That's basically it as I remember it. Others may have gone through this process more recently and are welcome to correct or add to anything I may have forgotten or glossed over.
Although it sounds like a lot but it's really not that daunting. As with any job process, if you go in looking professional (wear a suit and tie), acting professional, use some common sense and display the right type of personality you shouldn't have any problems.
I had ABSOLUTELY no teaching experience or qualifications prior to coming to Japan so don't sweat that too much. I think most on this board would agree with me, that attitude and personality can more than make up for the lack of practical, hands-on teaching experience.
On another note- I worked for GEOS for a little over a year before moving on to better things in Japan. Naturally there were things I didn't like, but overall I really had no issues with GEOS. I was fortunate to have a great Japanese manager and fantastic Japanese and western co-workers- makes a HUGE difference. I had friends who worked for GEOS that had horror stories to tell. I guess my point is, whether you go with GEOS, AEON, NOVA, whatever- it'll always be a bit of a crap shoot so good luck.
Another opinion (July, 2003)
Sounds like the process hasn't changed much then: I did the interview a few months ago.
Day 1
Very short intro to Geos and Japan
English grammar and general knowledge test
5 minute teaching demonstration
More Geos info
Day 2
Even more Geos info, including video
Assigned lesson subject + given planning help
Day 3
Teaching 20 minute lesson
1-on-1 interview
Day 1 starts with a very short introduction to Geos. You then sit a "test" on English grammar and general knowledge for about 15 minutes. The first half of the test is questions like name the word type (noun, verb, etc.); tenses (change this sentence into perfect perfect simple, etc.); and spellings. The second half of the test is pure general knowledge, like capital cities, identifying the former or new name of countries (e.g. you are given Ceylon and have to identify it as now being Sri Lanka) - I really loved this part of it because I love general knowledge. I say "test" with the quotation marks because when I did the interview anyone who failed got to do it again on the second day. People who failed were encouraged to team up with people who passed to get the answers before the re-take (teamwork practice).
Next on day 1 you are given a very open subject to teach a five minute lesson on. You have 15 minutes to prepare the lesson, then you teach it to one of the recruiters (1-on-1).
The first day ends with lots more detailed info about Geos. During this time they'll also get you to do team-building stuff - the usual name learning games, etc. Be enthusiastic at these points; if you're asked to do a forfeit because you've lost a game or something, do it without question. Day 1 is over.
The whole of Day 2 is basically the same as the end of Day 1 - learning stuff about Geos and doing team-building, role playing, information gap exercises. The day ends with everyone getting a sheet from a Geos textbook with the basic outline of a lesson, on which you base a lesson that you plan overnight. You get a bit of guidance on this at the end of Day 2.
Day 3 starts with you delivering your lesson. You are told to plan for a 30 minute lesson, but then, in a "surprise" twist, they only want you to teach 20 minutes of it - i.e., can you adapt at short notice to changes. After you've done your lesson (to the other interviewees) you have a 1-on-1 interview with one of the recruiting staff, and fill in a questionaire.
That's it really. Be prepared to do the team-building stuff as I mentioned above, and lots of the tasks you have to do end up with you parroting the Geos way of working/teaching. Although, to be fair, they do point out some of their weaknesses and the strengths of other companies. I'd say the most important things over the course of the three days are: look professional (suit, tie, jacket, etc.) at all times and be enthusiastic. Some nice flash cards or pictures in your Day 3 lesson go over well also, so stock up on some coloured card, glue, etc. before the three days start. You are closely watched for the entire three days.
Another experience (June, 2003)
I interviewed with GEOS just last weekend and have been given an offer with them. The 3-day long process was perhaps the most organized, efficient, grueling, and intense (yet somehow, fun) interview I have ever been through. In a way, it was like being on a reality TV show, where you are thrown together with a group of strangers from all over and are given various tasks. You don't know how many positions are available and you're doing your best to not get eliminated. Do not expect to relax during the weekend (except Sunday night or unless you get cut), and definitely do not plan on any activities for Saturday night if you make it past the 2nd cut.
Friday's session starts at 9 am or 11 am depending on which time slot you signed up for. If you are part of the 9 am group and you make the first cut, you will need to wait until 2 pm for the afternoon session which combines the candidates from both the 9 am and 11 am groups.
You should definitely review your grammar before taking the 20-min quiz. The quiz is the first thing they administer to determine your English skills. They use the results to make the first cut. After grading the quizzes, they will discuss your results during one-on-one interviews.
During the afternoon session which runs from 2 pm until 4:30 - 5 pm, they will formally introduce you to GEOS by giving you some basic information. They will explain their company, philosophy, history, salary, vacation, teaching methods, etc. You are allowed to ask any questions you have regarding Japan, teaching, or GEOS. You then do some pairwork and group activities such as a 5-min group demonstration.
At the end of the session, they make the second cut. If successful, you are invited back to continue with the rest of the weekend.
Saturday's session starts at 8:30 am or 9 am, depending on whether you need to retake your quiz. It ends around 3:30 - 4 pm. During Saturday's session, training officially begins. You are given a handbook which exposes you to even more information about GEOS. Here, they cover the basic information they gave you yesterday in more detail. Expectations, dress code, schedules, apartment furnishings, training, company organization, career opportunities, their teaching format, the business side, etc. are all discussed. They demonstrate the GEOS teaching method and even give you their evaluation form so you know exactly what they are looking for. You are required to make your own teaching materials for your 30-min demonstration on Sunday. It definitely helps to have scissors, glue, tape, construction paper, etc. to construct your teaching materials. Many out-of-towners had to purchase their own supplies. Since the Japan head office evaluates you by your materials, everyone I knew, including myself, stayed up until 3:30 am working on them.
Sunday's session begins at 8:45 am sharp and lasts until 12 - 1:30 pm. You form pairs and take turns delivering your teaching demo to one another. Afterwards, you are called in one by one to discuss the results of your demonstration and interviewed for any final remarks. By the time you are through, you should have a good idea of whether or not they will give you an offer. The entire process was similar to a GEOS bootcamp. There was a high degree of comraderie among the interviewees because we were all going through the same thing. The results of the interview will be given to you in 2 days. Their response time is amazing compared to most American companies.
I am not sure about whether all GEOS interviews are held over the weekend, but I'm thinking they probably are since most people have to fly in for the interview.
I also would appreciate hearing about any recent GEOS experiences firsthand. After the interview, my impression of GEOS is quite favorable in that they were extremely professional, organized, and efficient for such a large company. They were very clear, open, and upfront with their expectations. The interviewees were all really cool people that I'd like to work with. However, since GEOS was the first company I've interviewed with, I'm not sure if I should hold out for JET, Aeon, or ECC
Another experience
I worked for GEOS for two years, and left in the late 90s. I would agree, yes, they do work you very hard. There is a business aspect too, and you are expected to sell texts, and also get new students to sign up or existing students to renew. This was the least pleasant part of the job for me.
On the teaching end, they had good resources available, some decent training, and good support from the trainers if you need it. Expect to teach all ages - I was told in my pre-departure training that I wouldn�t teach kids, only to arrive and find out that 30 percent of my classes were with children. The manager had requested someone experienced with children, and she got me, so I�m not too sure about their recruitment and placement process.
The Japanese teachers - most of whom are `part time` and make terrible pay for a lot of work - were great, and helped me out a lot with everything from recommending restaurants to helping me make reservations for a holiday. Teachers at other GEOS schools said the same thing about their Japanese colleagues. GEOS always paid on time, and the apartment was in good shape when I arrived.
My class load varied from 8 /day during a very busy summer, to 5 or 6 a day most of the rest of the time. I enjoyed it, but know some who didn�t, primarily because of the heavy teaching schedules and the sales expectations. GEOS is also cheap about some things, and was getting cheaper by the day when I was there. One Japanese friend who left GEOS and went to another job told me how surprised she was to be given stationery supplies on her first day at the new job - at GEOS you generally had to bring your own.
The only thing I can say about the interview is look professional and be enthusiastic. Look very professional. I interviewed with a different format, but noticed that those of who were called back for the second interview were the ones who had worn suits to the first interview.
Another experience
As far as I can remember day one eases you in. There is a lot of talk about GEOS as a company. You have to present a very short lesson, at this stage they will just want to see that you can stand up in front of people and speak clearly. You may have little or no choice on what you teach. There's also a written test on grammar, general knowledge and stuff. Also a small one on one interview on the first day I think. Day two is a lot more about GEOS policies and you will find out about GEOS methodology. On day three there is a longer interview and you will teach a GEOS lesson. They will want to see that you've planned your lesson well, made some nice props (flash cards or something) and applied GEOS methodology. Don't plan anything for the evenings because you will be preparing for the following day and make sure you are prepared with card scissors and coloured pens before day one.
Follow-up message by same person
The fact is that GEOS is not an easy company to work for and I think it's useful that they let you know that before you sign anything. GEOS is hard work and they try to sort the workers from the holiday makers in the interview. About two thirds of my interview group did not turn up for day three, I guess because they were required to put some work in the night before and plan a lesson. I don't think it's too much to ask for that you can demonstrate what you'll be employed to do
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mrjohndub
Joined: 19 Sep 2005
Posts: 198
Location: Saitama, Japan
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| Posted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 1:34 am Post subject: |
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I agree with all of that content except in my case (May 2005 in New York) the third day was the shortest by far, and the first day was longer but with a lengthy midday break. This may have had something to do with the fact that they had to accomodate a large number of applicants in several groups. The last day for me was over in two hours, most of that waiting time. Oh, and there's no reason to characterize it as 'grueling.' It just takes a few days, and trust me, it's in your best interest to know as much as you can about moving abroad and what to expect, too.
I'd just say this to the OP:
1. Dress and present yourself conservatively and show up looking fresh
2. Be active, show interest, don't dominate any particular activity or discussion
3. Brush up on your grammar and general world geography knowledge
4. Have an answer for what three words best describe you
5. Don't ask stupid questions...shut up and just go with the flow
6. Don't try to be funny and don't correct others or interrupt anyone
7. Turn your cell phone off, and if you're late, just don't come at all
8. Don't sit next to people who aren't observing the same etiquette that you are
9. Bring 'arts and crafts' materials with you
10. Don't try to act like you know jack about Japan because you don't |
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Anne0
Joined: 08 Nov 2005
Posts: 22
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| Posted: Wed Nov 30, 2005 2:30 pm Post subject: |
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Wow, thanks. Hmm art & crafts materials. That's a hard one (cause I won't know what level i'm dealing with til I get there). Glad I have time to think about it.
Thanks again everyone. |
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mrjohndub
Joined: 19 Sep 2005
Posts: 198
Location: Saitama, Japan
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| Posted: Thu Dec 01, 2005 12:44 am Post subject: |
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| Just bring materials to make somewhat professional-looking props for your lesson. Scissors, glue, markers, a ruler, different kinds of paper, magazines to cut pictures out of, etc. You'll be preparing a lesson for adult students. |
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Willy_In_Japan
Joined: 20 Jul 2004
Posts: 329
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| Posted: Thu Dec 01, 2005 9:42 am Post subject: |
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When I got hired by GEOS, I brought a bunch of office stuff with me to Japan. While it is good to be prepared with some ready made props or decorations for the classroom, I personally would dump the scissors, glue, rulers, etc. All of that can be purchased on the first day at the local 100 yen store.
I would rather use my limited baggage weight for personal things you will miss when in Japan. English books, english computer programs, and maybe even an English video game system.
Of course, if we are talking the interview, yes, you should have that stuff with you. It might be a good idea to have some nice looking happy and sad face cards ready made before the interview (for random positive negative responses). You have to do a 'warm up' in your lesson, so coming with a generic one already done will take a lot of pressure off when writing the lesson plan on the saturday evening of the GEOS interview. I would suggest making a crossword with some of the free crossword producing websites online. Use irregular past tense verbs. For example, the hint would be 'go' and the answer would be 'went'. You are going to be teaching something out of 'sprint 3' for your demo which is native teacher level, so its not going to be out of the level of your lesson.
For decorating the classroom when you get to Japan, there are a lot of clip art collections online such as this one;
http://school.discovery.com/clipart/
There are some excellent pictures I would print out with a colour printer and laminate in my home country especially if going to GEOS. GEOS does not allow teachers to TOUCH the computers, let alone surf the internet. Download lists of idioms, cliches;
http://www.clichesite.com/index.asp
games, http://www.eslcity.com/english/
and put them in a book. Cut out pictures of famous people and mount them on cards....or download pictures from google images and print them..........you can use them not only for descriptions, but for 'So and So is the person WHO did something something'.
Print out 'classroom english' sheets and laminate them for instant pasting to the walls. They look more professional, and you certainly won't have time to decorate your classroom even though it is expected/required. Things such as 'What does ......... mean?', 'How do you pronounce this word?' 'I haven't got a clue!' 'I have no idea.' or all the tenses and an example sentence of it.
Perhaps something for reminding people that it is 'I am going to TOKYO"
"I am going SHOPPING" as every Japanese person thinks it is 'I am going to shopping'. ie I am going to (place) I am going (action) |
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