Korean Job Discussion Forums

smaulik · Joined: 01 May 2009

I was offered a job at a hagwon and was hoping to start in mid-August so that I could be back one year later and start grad school....but now I can't start until September or October (diploma/visa problem) and I know I won't be able to fulfill the 12-month contract.

Here's the question: Do I go anyway and tell them when I get there that I'll be leaving a couple of months early? Or is that a diabolical thing to do?

polonius · Joined: 05 Jun 2004

I would say sign a contract, come over, and see how things pan out before you mention that you are leaving. Unless you want to try and negotiate a return ticket, which I doubt you will get.

Wait and see how the place treats you. If they are fair and honest, then give them as much notice as you can so they can replace you. If they are dirty, give them the 30 days notice specified in the contract. If they are downright crooks, pull a runner after payday.

Cerriowen · Joined: 03 Jun 2006 Location: Pocheon

DON'T tell them upfront that you can't stay the full contract. You'll never get hired.

If they treat you well... tell them at about 2 months out that you are SOOOO sorry, and try to help find a replacement.

If they treat you fine... give them 30 days.

If they treat you like crapyl... leave after pay day Smile

Mr. Pink · Joined: 21 Oct 2003 Location: China

kabrams · Joined: 15 Mar 2008 Location: your Dad's house

Kikomom · Posted: Fri Jun 12, 2009 7:23 am Post subject:

I don't think the 60-day notice is so bad, the school will be off the hook for the return fare and severance pay. They'll probably be happy with that deal. Save the dramatics for next spring/summer and get the most out of your stay in Korea--hopefully for them too.

dporter · Joined: 26 Apr 2009

Sooner or later this type of thing will result in schools keeping 25% of salary until completion of contract.

Mr. Pink · Joined: 21 Oct 2003 Location: China

jinks · Joined: 27 Oct 2004 Location: Formerly: Lower North Island

I'm no bleeding heart / apologist, BUT what do you think about employers promising contract conditions that they have no intention of keeping?

cflames7 · Joined: 21 May 2009

If employeers were a bit flexible when making contracts, i bet people like the OP would be more likely to fulfill the contracts.

They would negotiate and sign 10 or 11 months contracts, and the employee would have a contract that fits their needs, and the employeer will have security in knowing what thy are getting from the employee.

Makes sense to me.

jinks · Joined: 27 Oct 2004 Location: Formerly: Lower North Island

It makes sense to me too.
However, that involves honest negotiation and the OP doesn't seem to be willing to try asking for a 10 or 11 month contract.

cruisemonkey · Posted: Fri Jun 12, 2009 5:07 pm Post subject:

Why not be 'up front' with the employer?

What am I missing that makes people think they should misrepresent themselves/their intentions?

I'm puzzled...

smaulik · Joined: 01 May 2009

Good point. I'm going to tell my recruiter my situation and see if she can finagle me a 10 month contract.

cruisemonkey · Posted: Fri Jun 12, 2009 10:46 pm Post subject:

If you're willing and the employer is willing, why not?

There's no legal reason it can't be done. The employer will not be required to pay severance, but this gives you leverage in negotiation. Wink

Also, (and to my mind, not unimportant) you won't feel you're being deceptive. This fact has untold 'psychological' benefits... not the least of which you will not feel you have anthing to 'hide'.

E_athlete · Joined: 09 Jun 2009 Location: Korea sparkling