Korean Job Discussion Forums

[The Hammer]

I won't discuss the details of my income, but I will say that recruiters skim about 450K off of my back each week. I always take a month off, so that's 21.6M a year that should be going into my pocket that isn't.

I'm done with giving these recruiters a free ride!

Anybody else feel the pain?

[OneWayTraffic]

Now all you have to do is organize your own classes.

Good luck.

[tob55]

I know what you are feeling. The issue is big enough that someone should take up the torch, but doubtful anyone will. Everyone is too busy trying to make their own impression in the country. Not a slam to anyone, just that so many new things popping up these days with regard to people wanting to be the voice and reason for foreign teachers and professionals. Be a helper first and the rest will fall into place. That is what I am trying to do. So far my wife and I have been able to help several people find new jobs with no shallow promises. No money asked for, just willing to give people assistance to find a job where they wouldn't feel like they were getting screwed without so much as a thank you from people.

I may not earn a penny from anyone, but there are more important things in the picture like, truly wanting to help someone because you see what they do for Korea as a valued service to everyone. I feel bad those who work hard and have their earnings siphoned off by recruiters who have no conscience or sense of propriety. None of the jobs I found for people required a lot of my time, and in the end they were able to locate the position that helped them feel more comfortable with their stay. That's all I have to say about that. You're not alone Hammer.

[Netz]

Give them an ultimatum.

Hire me legally, or find someone else.

End of story.

[bassexpander]

[PGF]

yeah, I've only got two classes through recruiters, but the thought that they are taking money out of my pocket steams me.

FWIW, try to organize your own classes. Avoid recruiters when possible and be patient.

[jbpatlanta]

Yeah, I understand this one. I started out using several recruiters to find jobs. I decided what hourly salary I was willing to work for and told them. If they can get more from the company then more power to them.

However, now I have only one job that I teach that I found through a company. They paid me what I asked for, so they were fair to me. If they get more from the company, that doesn't bother me.

All the rest of my jobs I have found on my own by doing my own footwork, going to companies and schools and giving them my resume and having my wife cold call companies and schools. So now I don't have to think about a recruiter.

If it bothers you that much, quit working for recruiters and get out and find your own classes. If you aren't willing to do the work to find your own classes, IMHO you should not complain about how much the recruiters keep.

Don't say you can't find the big money jobs. I've done it and know of others that have done the same. It is not that hard. Pick what salary you want to get and have your wife start calling companies. It might take a while, but you will find jobs.

Good luck

[jiyull]

I wonder if I should just ask straight up...how much money they are taking from me or will they just be getting money from the govt/hakwon and nothing is being taken from my pay

[bassexpander]

Company classes are around the 100,000 won range.

[The Hammer]

Thanks for all of the responses! Like I said, I'm done giving recruiters a free ride, and yes I am willing and able to find my own gigs.

How many of you have already gone down this path?