Job Discussion Forums

[MarcusK]

One of the places where I've been focusing my search is Istanbul, however I haven't had much success yet. I've recently earned my CELTA and have a B.A. in Linguistics, so I believe that I'm qualified, at least for entry-level positions.

Is it too early in the year for recruiting for the autumn, or are there just not that many jobs? From the postings on the boards, it sure seems like people think there are a lot of jobs out there. Any other suggestions on where to look for them? I'm not in Turkey now, so my searches have been limited to the 'net. Would I be better off to head to Istanbul and search in person?

Also, I'm 42 years old. Does age make as much of difference for inexperienced teachers in Turkey as it does in Japan? Many jobs in Japan seem to want people who are 30 years old or younger.

[FGT]

You're better off staying put and getting a job offer from there as you will (probably) have to apply for a work visa from your home country.
You are eminently employable. Age should count for you rather than against you as you have the "right" qualifications.

[Otterman Ollie]

Hi Marcus

The Turks are more than a bit slow at replying to enquiries about jobs on offer. I think its good to get your pitch in early as FGT mentioned there is also the question of getting the visa sorted ,again this takes time of course it can be balanced against making yourself available earlier in the year where you may get the chance to take part in summer school which as welll as putting some cash in your pocket will also give you a bit of background experience . Your age is about right depending where you intend to start ,certainly your students will take you a lot more seriously than someone who has just graduated from a Uni and is still more than a little wet behind the ears .

[MarcusK]

Many thanks for the info, guys! I guess I just need to be a little more patient then, and keep my eyes open for additional opportunities. It's always better to have a choice of offers.