Korean Job Discussion Forums

[vchampea]

I had an interview with Busan SGA and I've already been offered a job. My recruiter called me and said that he would send out the contract as soon as possible. I also just had an interview with EPIK and I'm waiting for their response. SGA is only giving me 3 days to decide! I don't like this

[Whistleblower]

Would you prefer to work with an organisation that takes their time or pressures you into signing their contract? Tell them that you need a bit of time to think it over and review the contract. Highlight that if all parties (recruiter and potential teacher) take their time and work professionally, there will be no nasty surprises during the term of employment. It is in their best interest to take things slowly. Besides, one way to prolong the signing of the contract is ask to speak/email to a current and/or previous teacher of the school.

Best of luck.

[vchampea]

yes, I did ask for that. I was given an email, but not a phone number. I emailed the person and I'm waiting for a response. According to what my recruiter said, they will still be interviewing for the position, and after 3 days if I don't accept the offer, the job may be offered to somebody else.

[ArgentineDreams]

I was once asked to make a decision on a hagwon job in 48 hours

[The Floating World]

You need to give us more info. Who are SGA and what are your hours, conditions and contract like?

Ps jobs can be great, but I'd take my current and last academy jobs over one anyday of the week (though if you're a newb - I'd say go for the ps gig for sure. Being succesful in the private sector takes a thick skin and a very well working knowledge of korean office politics and essentailly how to bullsht, market, and make kids happy whilst parents are conned into believing they are getting value for their 250k a month, it aint easy...)

[thegadfly]

Sorry, but I don't see the problem -- just make a decision. Why would you need more time than that to decide? Haven't you already checked them out? Haven't you seen the contract and heard the conditions?

You aren't delaying for any reason related to THIS job -- you are hoping some OTHER, BETTER job comes along...but that could happen at any time.

Crap or get off the pot. If you are uncertain, turn it down -- there are plenty of other jobs to be had.

[vchampea]

I put the contract up on the contract review thread.

Generally the advice that I've read is don't just take the first job that is offered to you. That makes sense. But how am I supposed to weigh my options when the school only gives me a few days to accept the job offer? The only way to weigh my options would be to turn down the first few job offers just so I have something to compare to when I get another job offer.

I would at least like to know if I've passed the interview with EPIK before I make my decision. Hopefully they will get back to me soon.

[thegadfly]

[vchampea]

[cincynate]

When people say don't take the first job that is offered, it is not an absolute truth. That is only said because so many noobs are desperate to come to Korea and tend to 'settle' on the first crap job offered. If your academy is respected, you have done your research, talked to other teachers, the pay is good, the hours are good, and the contract is good, jump on it. The job market isn't as good as it was here, so the jobs do go faster. There is no reason to turn down a good job because it is your first offer.

N.B. I worked for both PS and Academy, and I prefer the academy more. Hours are better and there isn't as much B.S. to deal with. However, beware of the shady hakwon owner.. They are a dime a dozen here.

[jamasian]

If you don't want it hurry and decline 'cause I am really trying to get out there ASAP.

[waseige1]

Or maybe a bit of pragmatic advice.

Say yes. Hold the contract (or wait on it) and that gives you a little more time. You can back out until the signatures are done.

I did this often in business when a person was giving me a drop dead date I didn't like.

[vchampea]

Yeah, that's a good idea. I think I'll do that.

[vchampea]

Damn. I got accepted to EPIK. I was hoping I wouldn't get accepted so that my decision would be easier. I also got an email from somebody who works at the private school. From what he says, the school seems to be pretty good. He's obviously satisfied with the job.

Well, now I really can weigh my options.

[The Floating World]