Job Discussion Forums

[alice4]

I am a Chinese, born in Hong Kong but lived most of my life in Thailand. I was brought up in well-respected International school and university. I am currently interested in finding a job in Shanghai. Do you think it is possible to find one? Currently, I am interested in finding an English teaching jobs to children. I do not hold any teaching degree but have some experience in tutoring English in Thailand as a part-time. Can anyone recommend me any interesting kindergarten that might accept me? [/b]

[7969]

you should list your qualifications (if any) here. helps people help you better.

[alice4]

Well, my qualifications are listed below:

I speak fluent in English and Thai. Consider to be or equivalent to the Native Language. I can also speak little Mandarin and Cantonese. I have almost 2 years working experience but it does not relate to the teaching field. In the past, I've tutored English to Thai children during the summer vacation when I was in my university's year. I do not hold any teaching degree like ESL, TEFL, etc. I have been to Shanghai and thinks that it is interesting, so I wanted to work there.

In addition, in appearance, I look like a Chinese because I am a Chinese but my way of thinking are like foreigners because I was brought up in a foreign environment since young. By foreign, I don't mean only the Thais but also different nationalities, especially westerners.

Is it because of my Chinese look that is making the English learning schools in Shanghai rejecting me?

I really DO want to work in SHANGHAI. Please help.

[7969]

although i've never worked in shanghai, looking at your qualifications (do you have a univ. degree at all?), i think you should accept that job in suzhou if the school is decent. you're going to have a hard time finding jobs because of your appearance. i think you already know that.

[alice4]

answering to the previous comment. yes, i do have a university degree.

[alice4]

isn't there any decent job that i can get at shanghai? anyone have any recommendation?

[tw]

[7969]

[AussieGuyInChina]

[alice4]

well..in my cover letter.. i don't really write like that. i write like this:

To whom it may concern:

I am (name), a graduate from the Faculty of Communication Arts Major in Advertising from Assumption University.

I am planning to go to Shanghai. During my stay, I am interested in applying for an English teaching position and feel that my educational background with fluent English (spoken,written,reading) skills could fit into your profile. I graduated from a well-respected high school and university degree in Thailand with an international environment. I am independent, hardworking, aggressive, social able, values teamwork, and am holding British National Overseas passport.

My CV and official transcript are attached to this email for your reference. If I should meet your interest, please feel free to contact me through this email address (email address).

Thank you for your consideration and hope to hear from you soon.

Sincerely yours,
(name)


is my cover letter not interesting enough?

[AussieGuyInChina]

Sorry Alice, but your application letter is not "interesting", is poorly written and is potentially misleading. Use of the expression. " During my stay �" may give potential employers the impression that you are seeking a job for a duration of only 2 or 3 months.

Alice, you majored in advertising! Use your advertising knowledge! How about:-

Hello

My name is xxxxxxxxxxx. I was born in Hong Kong, have lived most of my life in Thailand, and I am the holder of a British National (Overseas) passport. I consider myself to be an international person.

I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Assumption University, a well-respected international school here in Thailand where the curriculum is taught in English. Copies of my degree and transcript are attached.

I am passionate about 2 things; I want to teach English to children and I want to live in Shanghai. I've been to Shanghai and I loved it!

I am patient, kind, creative, enthusiastic and full of energy; qualities which I believe are perfect for teaching children. I am also a fast-learner with an optimistic attitude.

If you were to give me the opportunity of teaching at your school, I promise that you will not be disappointed.

I thank you for taking the time to read my email and I look forward to hearing from you.

Regards

xxxxxxxx

If you send this application letter by email then there is no need to specify your email address.

Good luck!

[SnoopBot]

Alice the best thing, since you're in Thailand, is to fly over and check out the Shanghai situation right now.

You can find a "job" but you desire a "good job" this is a more difficult thing to do.

What the others have told you is true, certain things will make it harder for you to find a position in Shanghai.

So many foreigners are willing to teach in both Beijing and Shanghai due to the upcoming Olympics scene.

Therefore, stricter rules for employment prospects exist including the 2 year experience requirement, degree and also the Native Speaker (born in a western country) requirement to get a FEC.

However, you can find a smaller city or area near Shanghai as others suggested.

Also look for the McMills as they will often hire anyone they can possibly find. (Note some of these are not good jobs though)

At least your foot will be in the door.

[alice4]

thanks for your advices.... but i was also wondering.. if i went to shanghai first and then walk-in to different schools so that the staffs there can see that i speak fluent english.. would there be any chances?

[SnoopBot]

[rel]

Why not broaden your search to neighboring cities? What about Hangzhou or Suzhou? Does it have to be Shanghai?