Job Discussion Forums

[ttrtaft]

Hi, I was wondering about the proper procedure for signing school contracts. The school I'm interested in, they sent me a contract to look over and sign (if I agree with their terms). Then when I arrive they want me to sign another contract. Is this normal?
I'm concerned if they have me sign their 'reasonable' contract, and then when I travel all the way there, change the contract and I will be stuck with a contract this is not reasonable. Then either I sign the new (and different) contract, or have to leave and start all over again, at great cost.
Let me know if anyone has experienced this before...
Thanks

[Chris_Crossley]

It isn't unusual, actually. When I was accepted to work for EF English First in China back in the autumn of 2001, I was sent via e-mail a document to sign and return by fax. This was not actually the contract itself, but actually an indication that I would be coming. I then came to China and signed the contract proper.

If you are unsure about this, please seek clarification with whichever school wants to hire you. Whatever you sign now, it should NOT be the contract itself and it should NOT actually commit you to teaching at the school, although it might contain clauses about you having to return the money for the airfare if the school paid for you to come over and you suddenly decided that you did not want to teach at that school, after all. (EF did pay for me to come over, but I think that the rule changed so that teachers themselves had to pay and would be reimbursed only after the end of their contracts.)

[kev7161]

Make sure what they sent you is a COMPLETE contract. My contract is 4 1/2 pages long plus there's a 2-page appendix (more "standard" things like living accomodation details). If it's just a first page thing, then there are all sorts of other items in the following pages (I would guess). I advise you to make a list of any and all questions you might have concerning your teaching hours/responsibilities, your living arrangements, extras, etc. If you find your answer in your contract, you can check off each item as you find it. If not, you may want to request something to be put into your contract: "Party A (the school) will provide Party B (you) with fresh drinking water in Party B's apartment at no charge." And so on.

If you sign a contract online (not an invitation letter, that's different), then your contract in China should be the exact same thing. Double check to make sure once you arrive. By the way, it's okay to negotiate - many schools expect it. Try to negotiate beyond what you hope for (but not TOO far beyond or they might just dismiss you outright). Does your contract state 4000rmb per month? Ask for 5000 (and tell them why you deserve it) - - maybe you'll get 4500 or maybe you'll get all 5000.