Job Discussion Forums

[TheHanMan]

How long did you spend looking for jobs in China, applying for jobs, and having interviews, before you found one that you decided to accept?

How many interviews did you do before you accepted a job?

Just asking really so I don't jump the gun and take the first halfway decent position offered, but also don't want to miss out because I take too long.

Thanks to those who can help.

[vikeologist]

If you're looking for a Uni job for September, then maybe you're running out of time.

For all other type of jobs, my opinion is that a half decent job is pretty much what you should be aiming for, especially if you're applying from outside China.

Be aware of the dangers, and if a job doesn't throw up any red flags, then you should seriously consider it.

Caution is certainly a good thing in these circumstances, but if a good potential employer, (and they will probably be aware that they are a good employer) answers all your questions honestly and shows that they are a professionally run outfit that people enjoy working for, they are entitled to get annoyed at people who can't make a decision.

Do your research and trust your gut feeling. If your gut is telling you that they're lying to you, they probably are.

[TheHanMan]

Thanks for the advice, it will come in handy.

[nickpellatt]

I cant give a personal answer of relevance really. I was in China when I found my first job, and my second was on the recommendation of a close friend who had previously worked for the employer.

As suggested above, caution is wise, but dont be too cautious IMO. At some stage you are going to have to take a leap of faith and just go for it. If you are well qualified and experienced then you probably can be more discerning in your choices, but if a first timer, then I dont see any reason why you shouldnt take the first half decent offer.

Assuming you have decided some of your key requirements, and someone matches them, then go for it IMO. Its far too easy to look for excuses not to take something, and you could end up procrastinating for ever.

[TheHanMan]

[nickpellatt]

Good luck, you have the credentials to take your pick from many jobs I reckon.

The key things for me are always location and students age/class sizes. If I can satisfy that requirement I think I would always be prepared to take a chance. Assuming there is not really negative feedback about being tucked up over pay etc. Worst case scenario then means at least your actual work should be OK, and you can cope with the location.

[MisterButtkins]

First job I had in China, the one I found while in the US, I spent maybe 5-6 weeks looking for.

Second job was probably 3-4 weeks.

Third job was 2 weeks.

Basically what I do is I put my resume up and also apply directly to any places that sound interesting, wait a few weeks, then choose the best offer I get.

[askiptochina]

After 4 interviews with schools and 2 weeks of talking to 10 or more schools through the computer, you should have a pretty good idea of what is available. It will be more of the same.

The only reason why you should go a 3rd week or 2nd month is if you found a school you liked but they didn't offer you the job after the face to face interview.

In that case, try to find out what the problem was, and if it wasn't something like an age or gender related issue, present yourself differently.

[dog backwards]

[TheHanMan]

[dog backwards]

Sorry, mate. Just wanted to help. I was responding to your second post (hence, the quote). You seemed to be in a quandary from lack of experience in China.

Good luck.

[TheHanMan]