Korean Job Discussion Forums

[myugen]

I was contacted by topia and was offered an interview this week.

Can anyone share any tips on how to go about this interview successfully? Would be greatly appreciated, as its my first interview here in Korea.

They mentioned I will be given some materials and need to carry out a mock class. Is this common? Can anyone share what is expected of me during the class (such as preparing materials before the interview, or if I will be actually doing a mock demo in front of students, duration of the mock class, etc).

Sorry about all the questions. I'm just not familiar with how things are done and would like to find out as much info as possible before the interview. Thanks!

[Chris2007]

I was looking into Topia, though I didn't have to do a mock class. Honestly, unless they give you the material the day before I probably wouldn't do it. Maybe they just want to see how you react under pressure, but asking you to make up a lesson on the spot or with very little time/info is ridiculous in my opinion. Topia is still just a regular hagwon regardless of what they claim.

[Auslegung]

I work for a Topia campus in Jukjeon, but interviewed over the phone while I was in America so I didn't have to do the mock teaching. From what I gather, however, you just do a standard interview with 1-3 of the bosses, then "teach" in front of them. They're not going to make you do a whole class, and they shouldn't be looking for perfection, just adaptability. If they're reasonable and intelligent (sometimes a big if) they'll know you're human, you're not perfect, but if given a chance you will try.

As for pointers for the interview, I'd think interviewing skills would transfer from most countries to here, just be yourself and be calm. Good luck, and if I don't forget I'll try to ask my boss what is expected and what you can expect.

You can check out this thread if you want more info on topia itself: <http://forums.eslcafe.com/korea/viewtopic.php?t=158611&highlight=>.