Job Discussion Forums

[lapat008]

Hey all,

I have had interviews with Peppy Kids Club and Aeon. I didn't get offers from either one. I would love to know why I didn't make it despite the feeling that the interview went well. and of course Aeon states that they don't disclose that type of information..
How hard IS IT to get a teaching job in Japan?
Was it me, or is it simply b/c there are no vacancies available?

I have my last interview with Amity this week. Can someone please give me tips on how to make a great impression and increase my chances??
For those that have been successful, how 'energetic and friendly' were you??

I know it's May already, what are the best options to get a teaching position in Japan?

Thanks in advance.

[Rakis]

I got several rejections before I got finally got accepted. I think I had been looking for at least 5 months before I got something. Probably persistence and constant improvement of my resume and interview skills helped me get what I wanted near the end.

I interviewed with AEON also. Part of what probably killed my interview with AEON was being unprepared for their test and my shoddy excuse for a lesson plan. Catching the interest of the recruiter could be a mixture of asking the best questions, being a personality they find desirable, showing a capacity for teaching, and having a good energy.

The school I did get signed on with (ECC) just found something they liked in me rather than the other candidates. I was extremely enthusiastic and smiling throughout the interview. Before the popular thinking for getting the job was just being the best "edu-tainer." Now you'll probably be judged on your shelf life, will you be willing to have a longer term commitment or use this as a gap-year or business vacation? Companies may want the former, English consumers in Japan are likely to be more choosy in more qualified teachers for their investment. Nevertheless, being enthusiastic will still be necessary to show that you are interested in the company and their business plan.

If you're willing to try a smaller school, like the ones that are advertised here and ohayosensei, you may get lower pay and maybe a less desirable location, but I feel their acceptance rate is far higher. I received two acceptances through these sources but passed when the larger company school accepted me.

Best of luck, keep trying and you'll get here. :D

[projectrook]

1) Right now is not the best time of year for hiring.

2) Far more people interviewing than there are jobs available.

3) Geos went under just a little while ago. So teachers from there are applying for the same jobs you are most likely. And it's safer for them to hire people already in Japan.

4) You haven't said anything about any qualifications you have or don't have. So I can only assume you are on par with everyone else applying for the same jobs. A dime a dozen.


For some people it's easy and for others it's not. A large part of it is just being at the right place at the right time. If you can catch an employer at the exact time they need somebody, obviously your chances increase.

As for the interview, it all depends mostly on what kind of job. If it's an eikaiwa, you must remember that it's a school and a business. So it's your job to get butts in the seats. And to do that, you have to be very animated. A lot of times, hiring staff will look more at that rather than English ability. Grammar can be taught, personality cannot. If you are looking at a job as an ALT, your English level will be weighed more.

But I cannot stress this enough, you are going to have to compete with A LOT of people. You might get lucky and get a job quickly, or it might take several years if you only plan to apply from overseas. Not everybody who wants to get a job teaching in Japan gets it. But if you or anyone gives up too early, then well that's it. If this is something you really want and it seems that you do, then stay strong and keep working at it. Make sure your resume and CV really make you shine above the rest. Learn from past interviews, review any possible mistakes you might have made and correct them. Also look at the things you felt you did very well and do them more often. Practice the interview process in front of friends or family and get advise.

[lapat008]

Thanks for the info and the encouragement Rakis!!

[Glenski]

[seklarwia]