Job Discussion Forums

justinhacks · Joined: 03 Apr 2010 Posts: 2

Hi

(I'm a 20-year old male from Finland. After a few years of studying law, I've finally come to the conclusion that I really don't have a passion for it. But I've been fluent in English since I was six years old and I've always wanted to experience Asia, so why not combine the two and make a living out of it.)

I have a few questions and some concerns:

Most of the job ads I've seen have had "be a native speaker/citizen of USA, Canada etc..." in the job requirements. Do these employers even look at applications from non-native speakers?

What sort of degree should I have? Education major, English filology? If there are any Finnish members here on the boards could you link me to the uni programs you've attended or in hindsight felt that you should have attended :p

If this is relevant, I'm hoping to be positioned in Japan or Korea.

That's all for now. Thank you

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

justinhacks · Joined: 03 Apr 2010 Posts: 2

Thank you for the reply
Any experiences outside of Japan?

Also, do you think that getting my bachelor's degree in an anglophone country would improve my chances of getting hired?

powerrose · Joined: 14 Apr 2003 Posts: 119 Location: Shenzhen, China

I would pursue something like an M.Ed in ESL. I'd also look at becoming an accredited teacher in an anglo country.

During my CELTA course, my Malaysian instructor advised simply calling schools up and asking some questions. They'll hear whether you have a strong accent or not.

You could also become certified in teaching something like Math. Plenty of schools in China seem to need English speaking math teachers.

tttompatz · Posted: Tue Apr 06, 2010 11:42 am Post subject:

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

I know you're intersted in Asia and have seen non native speakers in China. I don't know where else they can work besides the countries mentioned above.

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

Actually, I think you're highly employable in quite a large market.

In the European market, international speakers of English are employable - and sought after - in many situations. At the Dutch uni where I work, we employ qualified Dutch speakers of English (obviously) but also qualified Spanish and Italian speakers of English. The criteria are focused on the ability to communicate clearly in English in international situations, training, and proven ability to teach effectively.

Being Finnish gives you an advantage over many native English speakers in Western Europe where only UK teachers don't need exceptional visas. If you can prove your proficiency in both the language and as a teacher, you're certainly employable in much of this market.

That said, it does ususally take relatively high-level quals to get in. A few years of experience and a DELTA or MA would be likely needed to put you in the playing field.

Yes, degrees obtained in anglophone countries (all the way from BA -DELTA- MA) are viewed positively.

Justin Trullinger · Posted: Wed Apr 07, 2010 9:21 am Post subject:

Slight exception to thoughts about Korea. Non-native speaking foreigners can be hired here as experts in the English teaching area if they have a masters degree or above.

Best,
Justin

GambateBingBangBOOM · Joined: 04 Nov 2003 Posts: 2021 Location: Japan

Tantris · Joined: 27 Jan 2010 Posts: 11 Location: Madrid, Spain

Most employers will say "native speakers" but will consider any good applicant who isn't. If you have spent any time outside of Finland make sure you draw attention to it when applying. If your English is proficient then you shouldn't have much trouble securing work except for places where there is a crowded job market.