Job Discussion Forums

[wavelength]

Hi All,

I spoke to someone in New York, and now I have an offer I feel pretty good about. The money is OK, and it's an inclusive offer.

There's one thing that is confusing me though. Instead of receiving a contract which details my responsibilities and the benefits of the position, I received a letter to be signed which only speaks about the benefits I'll get. It doesn't go into great detail, but it's pretty clear. (Somewhere in the middle, I think.)

In all my positions as an ESL teacher, I've always received a contract that spells things out. (Although some were rejected because they were vague, etc.)

This would be my first position in this region of the world, and I'm wondering if this is normal. Would you expect a detailed contract or an invitation letter?

(If a contract, how would you tactfully express your need for greater detail to the employer?)

[BajaLaJaula]

As others can attest to....even the copy of the contract that you get is only a copy. Actual contract in Arabic will be signed when you land and go in to work or HR office on the first day.
You can request more details but you are always at the mercy of the employer since actual contract doesn't get signed until you are in-country.
That's is why it is so important to make sure that you are dealing with a company that has a good reputation. I have never had any issue with this process.
If employer has a decent rep, I wouldn't worry about it too much. Otherwise, find out if they have a history of changing the rules (conditions of work and benefits) after you are in-country.
You can always ask if they can send you a copy of the contract (in English) with more detail.

[wavelength]

BajaLaJaula,

Thanks. I have a good feeling about this, and I've searched, but can't find anything bad about the company. (The opposite really.)

They seem to be straight shooters. It's just that I'm new to KSA, I've been burnt in Asia, and so I'm being a little cautious.

I've sent a reply with a few questions, but I'm basically ready to sign.

Thanks for your input.

[veiledsentiments]

This is common. Over the 15+ years that I worked in the Middle East, in 4 different countries, I never saw a contract until after I arrived. I accepted the job based on a "letter of employment" and the details in it always matched the contract after I arrived.

As Baja said, the key is knowing whether the employer is trustworthy, and I probably vetted them more than they vetted me. Even though it was more difficult to do it back then without the internet.

VS

[wavelength]

Thank you everyone.

The only thing I have left to say is:

"The Wild Heart." Stevie Nicks.

[Cattyforyou]

[nomad soul]

[wavelength]

If nothing shows up on-line I usually consider that good news. (Unless they're new that is.)

[BajaLaJaula]

Here is a way to gauge whether or not they are trustworthy....

If only a few posts show up on Dave's from disgruntled former employees...probably OK and worth pursuing.

-These are posts from folks that had other issues are were not able to make a go of it for more than 12 months.

If more than a few threads show up then BEWARE. This indicates that they are a sketchy outfit and that no amount of money will compensate for the emotional trauma you would endure by working there for 1 year.

-These are posts from folks that have been forever scarred by psychopathic managers or otherwise unethical companies. Usually some hiring manager that is too dumb or lazy to properly vet applicants for HOD position. So you end up with a boss that is only useful at being a "hatchet man" for the company.

Money can erase a lot of negatives about a job....but now the money is evaporating. The middle-of-the-road jobs at universities, where pay is still pretty good, is the best bet if you want to last more than 12 months.