Korean Job Discussion Forums

Keepongoing · Joined: 13 Feb 2003 Location: Korea

I like the University position that I am in, but I do see positions out there with more pay, shorter classroom hours, more holidays. I am interested in applying for some of these positions, but some require accompanying "letters of recommendation". The problem with this is that I do not want my school to know that I am applying for positions until
I am short-listed. Of course the University applied to would expect leters from your current employer. Has anyone been in this position? What did you do?

Zark · Posted: Tue Oct 31, 2006 2:28 pm Post subject:

I try to make a habit of gathering letters of recommendation - and certification of employment - when I leave each position. Thus, I have a good history documented.

I have, in the past, told potential employers that I, of course, don't want to upset my current employer unless a specific job is offered - then I will be happy to provide a reference.

With a well documented history - the current position is not always so important - as a long-term trend of positive growth can be seen.

Yeah - I don't want employers are thinking when they ask you provide something from your current employer! Nothing like p*ssing your current boss off - on the off chance a job might be offered . . .

If your hand is forced - try to provide something from a trusted colleague rather than your department administrators.

jmbran11 · Joined: 19 Jan 2006 Location: U.S.

Ask one of your current or former students to write a letter attesting to your teaching abilities.

spliff · Joined: 19 Jan 2004 Location: Khon Kaen, Thailand

^ Or just write it yourself....probably won't be checked upon.

Yu_Bum_suk · Joined: 25 Dec 2004

Get a few Koreans you've worked with to write up letters in Hanguel.

oldfatfarang · Joined: 19 May 2005 Location: On the road to somewhere.

I agrree, a long history of references is a definite must. I always get references from current employers at the end of the financial year, or at the end of the contract. Even if I will continue to work there.

That way, if there are any 'problems' or 'difficulties' , you have a reference from your current employer - albiet 1 year old.

I've just got a reference from the President of my business-class corporation. And another from my current Korean Employer. I wrote it, and he just signed and stamped it without even reading it. I don't think written references are worth much in Korea.