Korean Job Discussion Forums

da_moler · Joined: 11 Nov 2006

I'm a newbie and I'd be grateful for any advice on this:

I've been looking for a job in Korea for a while now. I post my resume on a few sites, apply for some jobs, and get a lot of positive response. Then - nothing! I reply, sending the resume with photo (that they've already seen on the net) as requested, then I never hear anything!! I was even told by a university a while ago that they wanted me and wanted to call me, and when I told them when they could call me (basically, whenever they wanted), they never responded.

Is this normal? Is my approach wrong?

Should I be calling these people after they show an initial interest rather than just replying by email (even though they usually ask me to email them back)??

Sorry guys, but I'm starting to feel paranoid!

Help me out, please!

laogaiguk · Joined: 06 Dec 2005 Location: somewhere in Korea

Need more info. What kind of jobs are you applying for (really good ones or run of the mill ones)? Is there something wrong with the picture (is it professional, are you dressed well, do you have a tattoo or earing, etc.)? Are you asking too many questions in your replies? The OP is too vague to really answer.

It's somewhat normal though. They probably just found someone already in the country.

da_moler · Joined: 11 Nov 2006

Thanks for the reply laogaiguk.

I think the picture is fine. Anyway, it's exactly the same picture that they would've already seen on the internet before contacting me. Also, the university told me they wanted me after seeing the photo and resume - only to then ignore me!

I'm applying for good jobs only as I have quite a bit of experience and an MA.

Like I said, they usually come to me after seeing my resume and pic, but then, when I reply to them - nothing!

I think you're probably right - they just found someone already in the country - but it still seems strange after they went to the trouble of contacting me in the first place!

Anyway, about the photo - any views on what exactly they're looking for. Is it better to wear a suit and tie, or more casual? Also - smile, serious, wink (?!) - what's best?

Thanks again.

laogaiguk · Joined: 06 Dec 2005 Location: somewhere in Korea

ttompatz · Joined: 05 Sep 2005 Location: Kwangju, South Korea

da_moler · Joined: 11 Nov 2006

Thanks for that ttompatz. Maybe a portfolio of photos is the way to go, as incredible as it seems.

Although, as I said before, I don't think that the photo is the problem in my case.

It's a mystery to me...

PRagic · Joined: 24 Feb 2006

In Korea, you shouldn't call them up to 'show your interest' in getting the job. In fact, that is considered a sign of weakness or desparation, or, at the very least, being a pain in the arse. On the flip side, Koreans rarely if ever call you to tell you no, and they will usually only call you if you are a strong candidate for the job. It's a power thing and is difficult to perceive cross-culturally. Just roll with it. Once your stuff is in, let it go. Continue to apply other places. If you get two offers, play them off against each other. You are only as good as you are in demand.
Cheers, and good luck.

bnrockin · Joined: 27 Feb 2006

PRagic · Joined: 24 Feb 2006

Are they in sales? Do they stand to make a bundle off of a deal (or an ongoing relationship)? Are they employed and creating or maintaining relationships for their respective companies? Then it's different.

When applying for jobs, submit your materials and then lay off. In N. America, after applying, most people, especially recent grads, are taught that you have to demonstrate a 'go getter' attitude and a high degree of personal motivation when it comes to getting what you want. Call them up, follow through on your application submission...you know the drill. Do that here, and you won't fare as well.

princess · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Location: soul of Asia

I've gotten quite a bit if this too. Crying or Very sad

Starr31 · Joined: 23 Oct 2006 Location: Los Angeles/ KOREA

Pragic you got it right! My mom was explaining that to me as well. It's contrary to the "no news is good news" or however the saying goes...

If you do not hear back its time to move on. I was also suprised to learn that calling would be a sign of desperation because here in the states calling shows interest,,,,

I hit the same wall you did, when I initially started my search I was getting offers here and there. ( funny thing, it wasn't like "are you interested" it was more like, "we like you when are you getting here..." lol)
Then all of a sudden it stopped... Paranoia set in but really, its timing... there are SO many open jobs, be patient (i know you hear that alot) but seriously, be positive and it will all work out.

I think we are heading into a hiring period??? Especially in January I think is prime hiring time.

good luck.