Job Discussion Forums

Snappin · Joined: 16 May 2003 Posts: 9

I'm about to start applying for teaching positions at various language schools in Japan. From what i've read it is clearly advisable to have a certain amount of knowlege about Japan and its culture in order to demonstrate I am serious about living and working there and have a genuine interest; - not just there for money, girls etc.

I have a genuine interest, I want to come and teach, but I don't know a great deal about Japan in general. Can anyone give me some advice about what potential interviewers might expect me to know, or what sort of areas I should be swotting up on. Eg Japanese history, geography, language. Is it that important? I guess it just depends.....

guest of Japan · Joined: 28 Feb 2003 Posts: 1601 Location: Japan

This may sound dumb but, just tell them about your "genuine interest."

Also try to talk a lot about teaching, why you like it, its challenges, its rewards.

Just appear very eager to experience it all and make it seem as though the company you are interviewing for is the perfect opening for you to expand yourself. And that you would be greatful for that opportunity and of course will show your gratitude in the quality of your work performance.

kovac · Joined: 12 Apr 2003 Posts: 78

I found with one eikawa, the more I knew about Japan the less interested they seemed, especially when I said I spoke the language...bizarre.

foster · Joined: 07 Feb 2003 Posts: 485 Location: Honkers, SARS

I recall at my interview with Nova, they asked and I admitted to knowing next to nothing but that I was keen to learn more about it and how better to learn about a country than to live there....worked for me!!! Very Happy

Gordon · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 5309 Location: Japan

Many large eikaiwas like teachers fresh off the plane who will talk about their home countries incessantly and make comparisons about them(as long as Japan is looked upon favourably). New teachers also appear to be more maleable and may listen unquestionably to their bosses more.

shmooj · Joined: 11 Sep 2003 Posts: 1758 Location: Seoul, ROK

Gordon · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 5309 Location: Japan

Malleable

Females are welcome here too. Wink

Smooth Operator · Joined: 29 Jan 2003 Posts: 140 Location: Japan

If I were you I would apply to the JET Programme as you still have time. Most people at this interview are expected to know something about Japan. The 4 main islands and the Prime Minister was sufficient at my interview! I 'impressed' them by mentioning the previous PM and the month of his resignation!

As they say, every situation is different...

The JET application period finishers for another year by early December I believe. It has better pay and longer holidays than language schools. If you haven't heard of it, it because most active posters on this board are current or former language school teachers it seems.

Apply to both, as JET has a lot of participants based in rural areas which can be harder. However if you get a city location JET is a much better choice than NOVA, GEOS, AEON, ECC etc.