Korean Job Discussion Forums

[davochest]

Thinking about changing schools. There are some really attractive ones (elementary and private elementary) close to my house and want to just turn up on their door and see if they are hiring for the new year.
Whats the deal with this? Would this be a turn off in the eyes of a korean administrator? Should I call first? Is there some unwritten protocol in korea where this is simply not done??
Your thoughts please...........

[anynag]

You'll probably need an introduction to the VP or head teacher at the private school to be taken seriously. Relationships garnered through networking are the best way to ingratiate yourself with the school's administrators and those who hold influence over hiring decisions. Without a referral from someone employed (or has ties) there already, I wouldn't expect much from just a visit and dropping off a CV/resume, although doing so certainly can't hurt. Who knows? They may need someone soon; timing can also be to your advantage.

For public schools, you have to go through the appropriate Ministry of Education office (e.g., SMOE, EPIK, GEPIK, etc.) application process. For run of the mill public school hiring, I don't think an introduction at the school level will matter much for regular teaching positions, as their teaching slots are billeted by the governing MOE; however, they may be looking for afterschool program instructors, usually (but not always) a separate entity.

If you're already working at a PS, couldn't you request a transfer?

[oldtactics]

You'd be more likely to find a job if you go and talk to the provincial or district coordinator of wherever you're living. Most public schools aren't in charge of hiring - the EPIK coordinators are the ones who place teachers and they know which schools are hiring for next semester.

[nickwils]

If you know someone working at said school then they can introduce you and the school can request you via for example SMOE, but of course this is not 100% succesful even if SMOE accept you and the school requests you. That would be to simple

In Thailand, Cambodia and Laos for example the best way to get work is to turn up, hand in a CV and introduce yourself to the boss. Sadly, this is Korea.

[davochest]

Thanks for the feed back.

[davochest]

in reply to "anynag" I work at a private elementary school so am employed by the school directly not via govt. channels. Thanks for the advice. Im gonna try it anyway. Its all about timing. It cant hurt.