Korean Job Discussion Forums

[rainism]

[ajuma]

Back when I was in my mid-40s, I was hired by a hagwon through the recommendation of a friend. The owner (woman) told me that she was a bit hesitant to hire me because of my age.

Hmmm...I showed up every day...on time...ready to teach...and the kids LOVED me...and I loved them! She used to come and sit in my classes now and then and she was always welcome (except when she'd give the answers to the students!! )

She later told me that she would pretty much be hiring only "older" teachers!

I'm not saying that younger teachers don't do the same...nor am I saying that older teachers are always reliable, but if a school HAS had a good experience with an older teacher, they're much more likely to hire another one!

I've been continuously employed in Korea since 2000 and I've never felt that my age was a problem to my employers. You're as young as you feel. If you come across as "old" then that's how your employer will see you. But if you come across as active and vigorous, then you'll have a much better shot at finding a job!

[Ramen]

[Captain Corea]

I'm 37 and have never had troubles in regards to my age and work.

[rainism]

I personally know a guy who's now 45 and it's his fourth year here at the same ps.

however, in fairness though.. it should be noted for the benefit of those who are having/complaining of difficulties getting a job now....

that there's common thread to all the responses from the older teachers here.

that being, they seemingly came to Korea several years ago before the crap hit the fan with the economic meltdown. These days the supply is exponentially bigger and not knowing anything about who their incoming teacher is, most schools will always go with the default option, that being a young female blonde.

the recruiters are aware of what schools want. Now they have a much bigger supply of such to provide their clients with.

[Weigookin74]

What about an older person with experience? Does that preclude people or is it just older people looking to teach here for the first time? I assume the blonde north american female still ranks near the top of employers preferences. I've hunked down in my POE public school job waiting for this stupid recession to end. But would like to try living in Seoul at some point. But the way things are going with the economy, I'll prob be in my mid to late 30's by that time. That said, I know a guy in his 40's hired for a public school in Daejeon, recently. But he worked for EPIK before. He had a 2 year absence from Korea.

[rainism]

[Ramen]

[eamo]

I'd say only elementary and kindy level employers would have an issue with age.

Middle school, High school and Uni employers shouldn't have a problem with age.........also, it's likely that employers at higher-ranked institutions care less about age.

I'm 42 and haven't had any problems getting jobs......