Job Discussion Forums

[Rooster_2006]

On occasion, I've heard of employers or recruiters requiring a lesson "demo tape."

Is this something that they frequently ask for, or can I skip making one?

I have one more week left at my job in Taiwan, so I could theoretically make one this week. However, it would be a lot of trouble to assemble the equipment and get the parental consent to make it legal. I would probably also need to do this with more than one class to have a good example to show.

How important is a "demo tape" to landing a teaching gig in Japan?

[GambateBingBangBOOM]

I wouldn't bother, if I were you. I've had to do demo lessons in front of hiring panels, but I've never been asked for a demo reel. In fact, if they asked for one, they might not even count it as much in your case, simply because you aren't teaching Japanese students.

I've also done introduction tapes at dispatch companies. The dispatch company has you give a little introduction, and they give the prospective school the tape. Sometimes that's all the schools need to make a decision. Other times, they look at it, and ask you in for an interview. Not all dispatch companies do them, and especially if the school has good relations with the dispatch company, they'll trust the dispatch's opinion to the extent that if the dispatch says they have a good candidate for the school's position, then the school will interview you. But those area recorded by the dispatch company in their office.

[Glenski]

Some few places want such a recording. I think the ones who really ask for them are the ones with small children. You are right in asking for permission to use the kids in your classes, but don't rush making it. It will show.

Are you planning to come to Japan to look around, or will you apply from abroad only? If the latter, it might be worthwhile to have a recording ready.