Korean Job Discussion Forums

[gypsy trader]

There have been several jobs where I've been turned down solely based on age without ever being asked about qualifications or experience. The next time someone asks me how old I am, I'm going to say "old enough to be responsible, mature, and do a good job." I am well aware through reading the boards that age, looks, and nationality can be the determining factor in the hiring process. And no offense intended to anyone younger or older. Discrimination is fact of life.

I just want to know how do you deal with it in Korea - here it's illegal to ask your age for jobs and yes, age discrimination happens although it tends to be more covert. When you're over the percieved "ideal" age, i.e. 20's & 30's for ESL jobs, and get asked your age during an interview what do you say? How can one deal with it in Korean culture?

Any useful comments or suggestions are appreciated - for those who feel the need to reply with unsavory or snide comments, please go elsewhere.

p.s. yes, I have searched the forum for previous threads.

[chronicpride]

The best way to deal with it and still get a job, is to pay your own way over and meet schools for face-to-face interviews. Your success will be 500% better than applying abroad. It's too easy for schools and recruiters to say no to an email which has a resume and a picture of a 50+yr old man on it, as opposed to you being here, and having the opportunity to choose your job.

There are a ton of overseas applicants applying now (last time I posted ads, I received 50+ resumes per job), with people ranging from zero experience to MA TESOLs with 15 years experience. Blond hair, blue eyed, college grads to 50 yr olds looking for a change of pace. Everyone with a reason over why they think that are the best for the job (or any job).

But, if you're in Korea now or can come to Korea to conduct your job hunt, you move to the front of the line (or pretty darn close). Take the stress out of the job hunt and forget about applying from abroad for XYZ amount of months. Come over on your dollar and get your flight reimbursed when you decide on a contract. You'll save yourself a lot of time and grief. I'd recommend that to any demographic of applicants.

[discostar23]

How old are you gypsy trader?

Too young or too old?

I'm 23 and had no problem getting a job

[Juggertha]

I think chronic hit the nail on the head... need to copy and paste that one.