Job Discussion Forums

deadzenpoet · Joined: 06 Aug 2010 Posts: 71

I'm 44 American. Ok I know there are older teachers in Japan. I have recently been rejected by ECC, Westgate, and Interac in which 3 or 5 years ago I know they would have probably hired me. I worked for NOVA for 3 yrs 7 yrs ago. ( I know that's not the best experience but at least it is something.) I have been a Flight Attendant ever since and just want to teach again back in Japan. Now I get rejected and I don't know what to think except maybe it's my age along with too many applicants.

Could it be my essays though I am a good writer? Anyone have a better strategy for me for the next year?? Should I get a certificate now? Anyone been in a similar position and have advice?
Thanks!

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

IMO, it's likely not your age. It's the economy.

Westgate wants experienced people who are usually certified, if I read their web site correctly. Do you fit those qualifications?

Hard to say why the others aren't interested. Could be any number of factors.

You said that you write well. Your post has some mistakes in it, though. I've seen scores of resumes and cover letters that all needed fixing up. Perhaps someone else should take a look at what you wrote...? No offense, but the market now is far more competitive than it was 7 years ago, so perhaps employers are more careful.

If you are going by applications to only 3 employers, trash that thinking. Shoot for percentages with higher numbers.

Strategy depends on what you want.
Location? (ECC is not hiring now for Kanto or Kansai, for example.)
Time to start?
Type of job?
Choice of students?

...as well as other things.

Never Ceased To Be Amazed · Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2010 4:49 am Post subject:

Well, if they asked you to write an essay...I think that we know the reasons...

...capitalization, punctuations, syntax, coherency...

NCTBA

deadzenpoet · Joined: 06 Aug 2010 Posts: 71

Just my luck I get a response from the biggest troll here. I was basically just asking if anyone had any updated thoughts on age issues and what else I could do to apply. Thanks Glenski for your input.

seklarwia · Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2010 10:10 pm Post subject:

Are you even making it to the interview stage before getting rejected? If not, there is definitely a problem in your application which very well may be your essay.

Age may be a small issue for some employers, but you're only 44! It's not like you are going to be having mobility, health or other age related issues just yet, which is often the main concern that employers have. But I work for Interac now and the age of new recruits is going up as BOEs/schools get sick of newly grads who come not only with no idea how to teach, but who are still in party mode and think that ALT=paid vacation. Plus Interac likes those who can boast some teaching experience. They were extremely interested in my teaching experience, so should be doubly so with your time at Nova because it is in-Japan teaching experience.

When I arrived (March 2009), I was 23 and one of the oldest ALTs in my area. There was one guy who had worked for them for about 7 years who was a fair bit older than me (possibly older than you) but that was about it. But since then many of those who have arrived were 30+ with a couple being old enough to be my parents! So I doubt your age is little, if any cause for your rejections so far.

I agree with Glenski; you need to get your application and essay proof read by someone else and realise that it is no longer easy to pick up even bottom of the barrel entry level work. Also make sure you are not making too many requests in your application. These days there is so much competition for jobs that many are simply accepting whatever is offered to get a foot in. Appearing flexible is vital when applying with any of the large employers these days.

deadzenpoet · Joined: 06 Aug 2010 Posts: 71

Thanks seklarwia. No I'm not even making it to the interview. That's what is annoying and why I was thinking it was my age. Well I was getting under the impression ALT companies prefer younger people in general. My flexibility is definitely not an issue and I would think my experience in Japan and life experiences traveling as a Flight Attendant would be an asset as well.

I think my concern with my essays is that I am expressing more interest than actual detail or emphasis on my teaching ability and both of you are correct that I should have more review on what I write. I think I was a able to get away with interest in applying with Nova but now I'm sure it is more competitive.

flyer · Joined: 16 May 2003 Posts: 539 Location: Sapporo Japan

Yes, I doubt very much if its just the age. There are so many things to consider, timing for one. This is not a good time etc etc
Try in April

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

ironclad80 · Joined: 10 Sep 2009 Posts: 53

do you mean ECC wouldn't even take you in for an interview? if that's the case i would say it's age, seems they'll at least interview anyone unless you made some serious mistakes in your essay.

The Great Wall of Whiner · Joined: 29 Jan 2003 Posts: 4946 Location: Blabbing

I've had a few requests for interviews. I'm 35. Mind you, I have 12ish years under my belt in teaching.

Japan seems a lot more harder to get into than say 10 years ago. South Korea is as well come to think of it. If China only offered more decent salaries...

I digress.

I'd seriously try to compare yourself to what others are putting out there. If everything is equal except for age, then you've nailed it.

But as others have mentioned, it could be something else.

Good luck. Sorry I couldn't be more insightful.