Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Bruce W Sims]

Hi Folks:

Since this is my very very first post here, I feel a bit like a pig on roller skates (try explaining THAT idiom). All the same, seeking out placement information is not a new venture for me. And, my experience has been that there is a lot of information to be had. What I have noticed, though, is that the info I have been finding for quite a while now seems to lead people to the same positions over and over.

For myself, I am interested in University or Corporate placement meaning that

a.) I will be working with Adults

b.) the focus will be facillitating success in the business world

c.) and I will hopefully avoid some of the horror-stories I keep tripping across in my research.

If its acceptable I thought that maybe a thread dedicated to searching-out such placement might be productive. OTOH, if the subject has been beaten to death (Hey....its been known to happen) a couple of references to other threads would be much appreciated.

Best Wishes,

Bruce

[sigmundsmith]

It would probably help if you tell us more about your academic experience and professional experience (teaching or otherwise) that the people on here might give you some advice.

[Bruce W Sims]

That makes sense.

I have my BA and MA in Psychology and am certified to teach 6-12 here in the State of Illinois. I am also licensed as a counselor through the state, and am retired from serivice with the Department of Veterans Affairs. I continue to teach at a local Community College and have an interest in facilitating personal growth through the corporate community.

Hows that for a start?

Best Wishes,

Bruce

[sigmundsmith]

OK. First, getting hired from outside the country for University positions will be difficult for you. Plus you have no experience teaching university students here. The competition is very high, especially if you are looking for a position in a major city. They also like doing face-to-face interviews. It can be done over the internet (skype etc.) but considering the number of applicants most universities don't both with that and just do in-person interviews.

If you are adamant of teaching adults you might look at YBM or CDI. Be aware that most of the positions are split shifts which can be very taxing.

There are companies here that outsource directly language teaching to corporations offering business English but these are also sought after positions as the pay is quite good but the expectations of performance are high. Also, they like that you have Korean teaching experience as well.

Then, there is the option of seeking a position directly with a corporation like Samsung or LG. You would be the in-house language teacher but you would also be expected to perform other duties associated with the department you work for. These are not advertised a lot as they are usually filled by word of mouth.

But if you haven't been to Korea before and taught some level of English, your chances of getting the high end jobs are going to be difficult.

Maybe don't aim your goals so high. Why not come here first and teach public schools, get your feet wet see if you like it here. And then look into your chances when you are here. Make some direct contacts with corporate gigs or apply in-country for university positions when they come up.

[ESL Milk "Everyday]

Sigmund said it... unless you've got a contact here or know someone who has a contact here, you're going to have a hard time. It might not be impossible, though... I honestly haven't tried-- or known anyone who has.

If you're really set on that kind of job, your best bet would be to put in your year in a middle/high school, network for that year, and then move on to that kind of job later.

Most jobs in Korea really aren't that bad, despite all the 'horror stories' floating around... I'd say you have a much better chance of having a good (or at least okay) experience than a bad one.

Stay out of the hagwons, take your time, take everything you hear with a grain of salt, and you'll be able to find a decent position.

[Bruce W Sims]

Great information. Looks like I have my work cut-out for me. Thanks again.

Best Wishes,

Bruce

[zappadelta]

I agree a lot with what others have said, but I give you a little higher shot than they do of finding a uni job, with your comm college teaching experience and teaching certificate. Definitely look at job postings for unis outside of Seoul, and I think you have a pretty good shot. How old are you by the way?

[Bruce W Sims]

Opppsss.... I just knew someone would get around to asking me that.
I'm 60..and married...though my wife probably would not accompany me.
Maybe this is a good time to ask if age plays any roll in the hiring process. Anyone?

Best Wishes,

Bruce

[sigmundsmith]

[zappadelta]

I agree with Sigmund that it will definitely help to be here to land the job. But, at universities they don't care so much about your age. I think it will help you in many cases, especially with your experience. Once again, I believe you don't have much chance at a uni job in Seoul (with no experience in Korea, and not being here), but I definitely think you can get a uni job in a smaller city.