Korean Job Discussion Forums

cucumber · Joined: 12 Oct 2008

I'm going to start applying to some hagwons (probably teaching elementary or kindy), and I'm wondering about the photo I have to include. Which is better, a professional suit-and-tie photo or a more casual one?

For instance, I have a nice photo of me on a hike on Soreoksan. I think it makes me look happy, outgoing, fun, etc. (good qualities for a NET).

I know that appearances are very important. What do hagwons value more, professionalism or affability?

hapigokelli · Joined: 04 Aug 2009

Suit and tie. Hands down. They want to see you looking as professional and clean cut as possible.

nomad-ish · Posted: Thu Nov 19, 2009 1:46 am Post subject:

schools want a professional headshot of you. you'll be able to see some of your shirt in the photo, so think dress shirt & tie, at least. appearances are not only important in korea; i have a friend who worked as a recruiter (not in asia) and you wouldn't believe the casual kinds of photos sent to him.

Dude Ranch · Joined: 04 Nov 2008

go to a GOOD photo studio, spend the 50,000 won and get professional photograhs taken of you in a suit and tie. I bet a lot of other foreigners will think that is taking it too far but trust me don't listen to them . apperance matters, espically in Korea!
Go to a good , professional photo studio, not some joe schmo one on the side of the street. Great investment in your career if you ask me

zappadelta · Joined: 31 Aug 2004

bricolage · Joined: 03 Sep 2009

I just had my friend take photo of me. She's an art student, so she has a good eye, but the photo is nothing special. There was a neutral background, and I had neat hair, minimal make-up, a classy necklace, and one of those cowl-neck tops that guys find so strange. Oh, and I smiled. Smile

So it's not a collared shirt and blazer, but come on, I'm just applying for a hagwon job. I suppose if I get desperate due to low response, I'll get a new photo, but it just feels so silly...

seonsengnimble · Posted: Thu Nov 19, 2009 5:51 pm Post subject:

I usually just go for a collared shirt and tie in a subway photo booth.

Moldy Rutabaga · Joined: 01 Jul 2003 Location: Ansan, Korea

Put your camera on self-timer and stand against a neutral background with a dress shirt and tie. Your photograph will possibly be used not only for hiring purposes, but also may go on a plaque in the entrance to the school. Parents who bring in their children want to see professional looking teachers on the wall.