Korean Job Discussion Forums

[katydid]

In the interest of trying not to create a conflict of interest as I know many people I work with post on here, I'll be brief, and try not to launch into any Big Tirades. Those I will save for my family and friends.
I was told yesterday that at the end of February, I will be let go of my job. I totally didn't see this coming, and I really wasn't told WHY they were letting me go.
I feel really sad because I really liked this job AND thought I was doing all right in it.
Of course I am looking for other jobs, uni level and even hagwan. I planned on staying only one more year in Korea before going back home somewhere, so that will be taken care of. But can anyone please tell me how I can maintain a positive attitude for the next three months, so I don't shoot what might be a good review from my school in the foot. It's hard not to be sad and angry now, and just say "hell with the lessons." If anyone has had any experience in being let go from a job you liked, please post here or better yet, PM me.

[Butterfly]

The thing about us ESL teachers is that we never worked for the bosses anyway, screw them, we do our best for the students. EFL bosses are just greedy robbers the world over, but that isn't the students' fault. It shouldn't make any difference to you, and I say that with the greatest respect for you.

I don't know about you, and it sounds real smug but not intended as such, but I use negative experiences positively. I use them to motivate me; so in your shoes, I would work my arse off for the next three months, make them ask you to stay so you can refuse, come out on top, immaculate and super confident. Make them regret deciding to can you, show them truly, what you are worth. Three months from now I hope that you are feeling like her majesty the queen in all her regal splendour.

Go Katy, Pighting!!!

[Tiger Beer]

When was your contract suppose to be up?

Hmm.. that is a really really advanced notice.. and its cold out and everything else.. I'd wrap things up earlier.. get the hell out for a month or two.. and pop up later in Seoul..

[Hotel Cheonan]

Tiger does bring up a good point. You don't really know whether they're going to send you packing now, or actually wait until Feb. My advice, continue like business as usual, if things start to go screwy, then get the hell out of dodge. Take a break, relax . . .

Sorry about the bummer news

[Paji eh Wong]

It seems you have 2 problems
1) not going upside the head of your boss and
2) doing well for your students.

[Tiger Beer]

Ooopss.. as to my previous reply.. didn't realize you'd be getting severance and the full thing.. just not a renewal.

I change my answer.. you should definetely stick it out and have fun. You'll get a nice vacation afterwards in February.. and free to go anywhere again.. its a good feeling.. even though it might not seem like that to you now..

[kimcheeking]

It sounds like you are at a university. Yeah it is standard for uni's to give advance notice so that you can find another position and they can hire ppl. uni hiring season is full on now.

I wouldn't worry about the severance. if you are at a uni and complete your contract in feb you will get it.

good luck in the job hunt - I know it sucks to get dropped but I'm sure you will find something better.

KK

[Kwangjuchicken]

[katydid]

I thank you all for your support and kindness

TB, it sounds like you are ready to go down to Gwangju and rumble for me, but I am being told they will not renew my contract, not that I am kicked to the curb completely. In the past, others here have posted that the office manager who'll take care of everything rocks. As long as I don't go stupid, I have no reason to believe my uni will go shady on me. And yes, it is lucky (I guess) I have three months to look for a job.
I'm trying to look at this as a positive thing (well, positive down the road anyways). I believe things happen for a reason. Who knows, I may have to work longer hours, but I may get paid better, and chances are good I will have cable TV right off the bat and hot water 24/7, and be closer to Starbucks downtown. It's all about the good things in life.

[rapier]

Nice one K-did: Its important not to take it personally, because from what i've seen, korean directors usually make decisions based on factors quite irrelevant to your teaching abilities. Its all about money, image, networking, etc etc.
I was "replaced" last year, my director told me he was sorry but he thought It'd be a master business plan to hire a blonde, blue -eyed American to help pull in extra students.
he went out of his way to help me with all issues surrounding my severance etc.
now i hear several people note what a superb teacher i was there- that there have been no new students at all since i left, the new guy doesn't give a dam about the job, and the old boss wants me to call him etc....

[OiGirl]

Sorry to hear that, Katydid. But your employer has a long history of doing things like that. You know well that I really do think things happen for a reason, especially in that city!

[peppermint]

Well, we're both in the same boat- somewhat, and the offer to get drunk together is still open, meet you halfway in Daejeon. .

It sounds like you really do like your job, try to focus on the day to day classes, and not be bitter. The voices of those who complain are a lot louder than those who are contented (see the board as evidence!)

[princess]

At least you have 3 months to find a new job. You won't have to worry about running out of money and leaving Korea like I did. Consider yourself lucky!!!

[The Man known as The Man]

[mike123_ca]

Hi Katy

Samething happen to me 3 weeks ago. My boss the mindreader went out and hired a new teacher for January. He told me that he "thought" I wanted to move to Seoul. Where he came up with that idea, god only knows. He asked me where I wanted to go, I said I will stay in town and work for another hagwon, needless to say he was not very happy with that idea.
Anyway, I sat down the next weekend and sent out a lot of job applications. I've received 3 offers and the one I will be taking will be with adults. No more children BTW I'm over 40, so the job market is not in dire straits. I'm sure very soon you will be telling your friends about the great career move that you just made.