Job Discussion Forums

CWanders · Joined: 04 Jan 2007 Posts: 49

During an interview with Reach to Teach the interviewer mentioned that they may want to see recommendation letters. Is this standard?

I also have an interview scheduled with Footprints and have applied directly to Hess and received a positive response and request for a copy of my diploma. Will Hess and Footprints also want to see recommendation letters? (I'm simultaneously applying to a grad program with the intent that I'll defer, but I'd still prefer not to ask my referees to write letters again so soon.)

And yes I have read the negative opinions regarding recruiters on this board, and I have my own reasons for wanting to arrive with a job in hand.

Thanks!

Ki · Joined: 23 Jul 2004 Posts: 475

Have you read some of the opinions regarding these companies in particular? Many of them are not negative at all. I wouldn't worry so much about recommendation letters at this level. I think in general it is good to have some generalised recommendation letters handy and then just fax them over. IE. "To whom it may concern......." I think the demo is a more important consideration for schools in Taiwan.

Miyazaki · Joined: 12 Jul 2005 Posts: 635 Location: My Father's Yacht

TaoyuanSteve · Joined: 05 Feb 2003 Posts: 1028 Location: Taoyuan

I agree with Miya on both counts.

Reference letters are not needed for most EFL jobs in Taiwan. If you encounter an employer or agent who insists on them, and getting them would be too inconvenient for you, simply move on to the next offer. Very few will ask for much more than your CV, photo and degree. Reference letters are about as necessary in Taiwan as adding chocolate flavoring to Drano.

I also agree on the recruiter issue. CWanders, I also had my own reasons for wanting a job in hand when I first went to Taiwan. The mirage of the security I received insodoing was just that, a mirage. Most I've spoken to on the issue have been less than satisfied with the jobs they've gotten through agents. Jobs are so plentiful that you can easily find an area you want to live in and get a job yourself. I warn against trusting people you don't know and taking jobs in a country you've never been, in a town you've never heard of and in a school you haven't even visited in person.

Toe Save · Posted: Mon Jan 08, 2007 7:25 am Post subject:

There are, however, some instances where letters that prove employment are required. One work permit I worked under was that of a researcher. Still within the confines of the MOE I believe. I had to obtain a letter or two proving I had 2 years work experience.

I am fully aware that the OP is querying about SOP and in my experience, I'll too agree that LoRs are mostly moot. But a situation may arise where they could come in handy. If you got 'em, flaunt 'em, I'd say. What are a couple of extra envelopes or kbs compared with a last minute scramble to avoid a visa run or worse, passing on a unique opportunity because of a simple lack of foresight.

A horse, a horse, my kingdom for a horse........