Job Discussion Forums

gemair · Joined: 08 Jul 2004 Posts: 14

Hi,

I've noticed posts that say June-August are the best times to apply for a job in Taiwan, but I have a little dilemma. I wanted to try to try to find a teaching job next year however, I have a somewhat pressing need to settle my plans by January. I have the possiblity of obtaining a job here in the U.S., but I have to commit myself by the New Year or not at all. I will be vacationing abroad from March to mid-August which is what makes me need to decide early on what my choice will be. I would just go to Taiwan and take my chances, but I do have to start paying off college loans soon and that uncertain future is not an option at this moment. Are there schools that do advance contracting? If so, would people recommend that route? Incidentally, would anyone recommend a school(s) that would be trustworthy regarding such advance contracts,? Thanks.

~Kristine

wood · Joined: 13 Apr 2004 Posts: 202

Ki · Joined: 23 Jul 2004 Posts: 475

I agree with Wood,
Just turn up in Taiwan and start looking. I would recommend NOT coming with a recruiter. Only recruiters and chain schools (who both offer much lower wages) recruit from outside Taiwan. Their services are minimal and you would be better off financially without one. Just ask Aristotle about them. Try to come on a 60 day visa rather than a 30 day visa. I would also recommend studying Chinese and get a student visa for a couple of months to make sure you are happy with your school. Also try to arrive in the first half of the year so you pay 6% tax instead of 20%.

Also, recruiters , agents, and consultant companies are just three different terms for the one concept. Don't be fooled. If you are unsure of a contract you CAN change it. Otherwise walk away. And DON'T hand over your documents like degree and passport. Good luck.
Ki.

Aristotle · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Posts: 1388 Location: Taiwan

Please read this,
http://www.geocities.com/taiwanteacher2002/Success.html
good luck,
A.

matchstick_man · Joined: 21 May 2003 Posts: 244 Location: Taiwan

There's a few things I disagree with in a few of the above posts. Recruiters can be good especially if you're doing the lone ranger thing. Some can be good and some can be bad. Bad experiences tend to be reported more than good. Arriving in the first half of the year only guarantees a tax refund as I returned to Taiwan in January and found out I would be taxed 20 percent. Asking aristotle anything is like talking to a brick wall or looping a CD. He or she rarely directly answers questions.