Korean Job Discussion Forums

[mb2086]

That hardly excuses the fact that they are ageist. People over 35 do actually have a life you know.

[Fifyfofum]

I agree that being discriminated against is sh*tty. I do wonder though if it's Hunt ESL, or their potential employers in SK that discriminate against you... I think I'd rather be told up front if I wasn't "suitable" than be endlessly led on by a recruiter with no intention/hope of securing me a job (as many seem to do).

AND I'M NOT SUGGESTING FOR A MOMENT THAT OLDER CANDIDATES AREN'T SUITABLE, JUST THAT SOME EMPLOYERS IN SK BELIEVE THIS!

I know for a fact that I was picked because of the picture I sent in (pic of me on my 21st - I'm 27!)... hardly a good way to chose an employee, but that's the way it's done in Korea!

My advice to anyone applying from England is to supply the best possible picture of yourself - even if it was taken years ago.

My advice to older candidates is to sell yourself to a school that would value what you have to offer and to accept that perhaps the schools on this recruiters books wouldn't.

[mb2086]

Thanks for the advice. Actually It looks like I've been accepted into the fold with Footprints recruiters who are based in Canada. They were recommended and so far I'm impressed with their professional approach and attitude. I'm aware that age is not necessarily an assett in Korea (compared to China anyway) but there are plenty of examples of teachers in their 50's or older doing well there since many people have told me so. I suppose it's a case of selling yourself, but what annoys me about Hunt is that they appear to be resigned to accepting under 35's, even if it is their SK office that insists, rather than making any effort to challenge the policy. Whilst not making any excuses for them, it would appear that popularity has it's negative side. If you are getting so much business why bother with those who don't fit the stereotype? Well, there are plenty of reasons actually....................................