Korean Job Discussion Forums

[seonsengnimble]

A month or two ago, I began my search for a university job. I had no luck in getting responses, and I finally went with a school that is alright. The pay and location are pretty bad, but the hours, conditions and vacation are decent. I signed, and I'm supposed to start in March and go to immigration some time this month.

Earlier this evening, another friend called me and let me know that a position just opened up at his university, and one of his coworkers who I've met a few times can set me up with the position. This job is much better. The hours are a little bit lower, the location is much better, and it pays considerably more. All of the other conditions are pretty much the same.

I am planning on taking the new position.

I know that I won't have any legal troubles since a contract means nothing if I haven't submitted paperwork for a visa yet. My question, however is how to let the school I signed the contract with know I won't be teaching without causing a lot of trouble for the friend who hooked me up. I'm not too worried about them finding a replacement. It is a university position, and they do have almost two months.

What do you all suggest? Honesty? My uncle is sick? I'm sick? I'm taking a year off?

My Jeong is lacking and any advice would be appreciated.

[naturegirl321]

I don't know. Try talking to the old employer and see if they will release you. I was in a similar position, but hadn't actually signed the contract, since I was still waiting for it.

I would be honest, say a better job has come up, professionally speaking, not money wise.

However, from your post, it's not clear, have you been offered the uni job? Do you have the uni contract already?

[sketcha]

for your own sake, dont lie ... doesnt mean you have to tell the whole truth, either

just tell them something of significant came up and you will not be able to fulfill your contract, apologize and wish them well

but do let them know asap (before they pay for your airfare, etc)

about the new school (and working in Korea), location does matter - also depends on what type of person you are, but from personal experience and from reading others', location can play a big role on how well you do here

[frankly speaking]

The bottom line is that by not taking the position you have burnt a bridge. They will not take it kindly no matter what excuse you give.

I would tend to lean toward being honest and tell them immediately that you thank them for the position but not to process the paperwork. You will not be able to take the job in March.

If they ask for a reason, then just state that you have got a better offer. Apologize a lot for the inconvenience to them. That you would like to work with them but you cannot pass up the other opportunity. You can also say that you actually interviewed with the other school first and that you feel obligated to them.

What bad luck for you, two different positions to chose from. I wish we could all be so unfortunate. HAHA

[kalbi]

Congrats on having two offers.

-Notify school number 1 as promptly as possible. Keep it short and professional.

-There is no need to tell school number 1 about about school number two. School 1 will assume as much but do not fill in the blanks for them.

Good luck!!