Job Discussion Forums

[mfpow]

Hey everyone,
I live in california and am planning a year teaching esl in korea. I have seen recruiting companies that seem to offer good pay and good housing options. I was wondering if in general people benefit more from having this stuff arranged before arriving. what are some pros and cons? Also, ive noticed a recruiting company called Footprints, who offer many good benefits, anyone heard of them, used them or know anything of their reputation? thanks matt

[waygukgaijinhaole]

Do a search on footprints, there's a thread somewhere.

Also, post this on the Korea forum...but I suggest reading a bunch there first. The questions you are asking are common newbie-to-Korea questions and can be answered with a little wandering on the Korea forum.

If you don't find the info after a search and wandering the Korea forum a bit, post again.

...I suggest.

[BethMac]

I've been lied to by recruiters in the past and and so have a lot of other EFLers I have known. Personally, I think that visiting the destination of choice and checking out jobs/accommodations while you are there is a much better way to go. A few things to consider:

- recruiters are paid by the schools for every teacher they successfully recruit...unfortunately, some (many?) will make the situation appear rosier than it really is in order to get your John Hancock on that contract and your butt on that plane
- recruiters generally don't bother with their recruits after they have collected their money from the school (why would they?)
- in some cases, the recruiter(s) hadn't even checked out the school, location, or accommodations before sending teachers there
- if you do go with a recruiter, ask to speak to a foreign employee (at home, not at work)...unwillingness to supply the phone number should tell you something isn't right


Just some friendly advice. Good luck!