Job Discussion Forums

[Noelle]

Hi all

This question is about one specific recruiter in particular- Footprints Recruiting based in Vancouver, B.C. They're a very large agency and very good at what they do and they also have a reputation for screening schools in other countries and helping people out of predicaments.

But they have worked largely with schools in Asia seeking "teachers" who are very low-qualified or unqualified altogether. Recently though, they have been advertising positions for schools in Saudi Arabia and the UAE where the candidates should have a TEFL or CELTA equivalent, but not an MA. As an MA holder, this was an immediate red flag to me.

Now one of my colleagues here in the U.S. is considering contacting them for a position in Saudi Arabia. He is also planning to attend TESOL Arabia (I believe) which I think will be much better than using a recruiter but in case he doesn't make it, he wants to cover all his bases and at least have somebody working with him.

So I know recruiters are a big thing in Asia but I guess my question is, what about the Middle East? Is it even worthwhile for a qualified and experienced instructor to consider using a recruiter or would it be best to avoid positions which use recruiters to land teachers in the Middle East?

[veiledsentiments]

Their reputation in the Gulf is not great... mainly because they seem to pay so much lower than everyone else. They also don't seem to represent very good employers. Certainly not an organization that anyone with an MA and good experience should consider. Tell him to go to TESOLArabia.

VS

[scot47]

"Recruiters" as you see them in other countries do not operate in the Saudi job market. We have here "Contractors" who are a different breed. More larcenous in that you work for them and they contract out your labour to an employer. Typically the "contactor" will make more on the deal than you do.

If coming to KSA come on direct hire and on a proper labour contract (not a "Business" visa)