Korean Job Discussion Forums

[22tea77]

Will be starting in the Public School(s) March 1.
I currently know nothing about my future Co Teacher(s) or even the specific location of the school(s)
Is it a good idea to bring gifts for my unknown future co-workers/bosses? Is it customary to do so, or considered over the top?
All ideas on this are welcome and appreciated! Thanks

[Darkness]

It's over the top imo

[Insidejohnmalkovich]

My guess is that you are a very sociable person, the kind who rushes to the hospital to visit their ex-boyfriend's cousin and has a gazillion digital camera photos, in which case, sure buy presents.

If you are just thinking about it because someone told you it is the "right" thing to do, skip, no one else get presents for their boss.

[Oreovictim]

I'll just say this: If you're from Canada, don't bring maple syrup. It's been done before. Oh yeah, don't bring any Rush C.D.s, either. Koreans can't stand Geddy Lee's voice.

[bassexpander]

I know a lot of people might scoff at it, but to be honest, it might be helpful in creating a good first-impression. Just a small gift is fine. I'd suggest something with the name of your home state on it, or something of that nature. Dressing well is another tip for creating a good first-impression. Koreans are big on dressing well.

Oh, and a cultural hint for you -- when giving gifts to coworkers, always make sure the boss has the nicest gift. My Korean wife always tells me this is important in Korea. If you give the same gift to a general coworker that you give to your boss, it could actually be offensive to your boss.

[KYC]

[bassexpander]

KYC -- Just add a little something extra on the side of the principal's gift, and you'll be good. Even if it's a small extra. I added a small candle to a gift for a similar reason, once.

On a side note, I know a guy who got fired from a public school job where I used to work. He was in trouble for several things, but when I asked my former co-worker about it, one of the things she mentioned was that he gave the principal, teachers, and students the same gift once. That was a minor thing by comparison, but something she remembered, none-the-less.

[22tea77]

[nomad-ish]

i brought gifts when i started at my PS. wish i hadn't

just dress nicely and be respectful, that'll make them happy

[bassexpander]

If I were you, I'd just bring one for the boss. You don't know the teachers yet.

[22tea77]

[Binch Lover]

When I came, I brought a bottle of Irish whiskey for the principal and some chocolates for my co-teacher. I really think it's VERY important to make a good first impression. They were very pleased with the gifts and the principal shared out the whiskey at our first staff dinner together.

On a side-note, I would advise you to attend any staff dinners or social invitations in your first month. It will help you to get to know your coworkers better and create a better atmosphere. After you settle in, you can skip them if you feel like it. Public school life is harder to settle into than hagwon, so that first month is crucial.

[22tea77]

[littlelisa]

Hahaha, in Korea?

Don't worry about it.

[KYC]