Korean Job Discussion Forums

[TreeHugger15]

Appologies in advance if this has been mentioned before. I've scrolled through the forums and can't seem to find a direct answer to my question.

I'm a bit confused as to the process/timing of getting documents sorted. Is it common practice to get all the documents sorted (background check, degree notorised etc.) before receiving a job offer? I was originally under the impression that you received a job offer starting at a certain date, then went and got the documents sorted. The only reason why I ask is because these docs have a cost associated to obtain them, and if I don't get the job it will be a complete waste of monies! I've made contact with recruiters and can't seem to get this question answered.

Any advice is appreciated.

[pixie_fi]

Hey,
I think in general it is worth getting your documents ready before you get a job offer. When I was in the process of getting mine ready, recruiters kept asking me to update them and scan my apostilled documents when I got them. It seems that they are more interested in finding you a job when you have all your documents ready. But that's just my experience. I haven't got a job yet- I'm in contact with a company who owns lots of schools, and they wouldn't further my application until I'd received all my docs. I was a bit unsure too because, as you say, you can end up paying for docs then not finding a job. However, I'm just thinking positively and hope something will come up eventually!

[PatrickGHBusan]

You should ideally get all your documents ready BEFORE you apply. This will increase your chances of finding work and shorten your job search.

Note that some documents take longer to get, so by waiting to save money in case you do not get a job, you might miss out on a job because you cannot get the docs in time.

[SLK]

Hi there;

I'm adding to this as I'm sort of in the same boat as the original poster...
I'm in the process of gathering together all my documents: i.e I've applied for a basic disclosure, requested 3x sealed course transcripts etc...

My question is, as I'm applying to more than one agency/recruiter am I going to have to pay for everything multiple times?

For example, it's �23 for a disclosure, over �60 for an apostille stamp, I've requested a new copy of my degree certificate which cost �55...

Tiger English are one of the recruiters I'm applying to, who in accordance with the new rules set out by the Korean Govt. are requesting-
a University letter confirming my degree + apostille stamp
my basic disclosure form + apostille stamp
= �155+

As I'm applying to more than one agency - will I have to repeat this high cost over and over?
I'm broke enough as it is!


any help is HUGELY appreciated!

S.x

[meagan8477]

If you're in the US the FBI background check can take 3 months or longer to get back so it's important to send off for that right away.

I don't think about "if" I get a job, I think about "when" so I'm just getting the docs ready for whatever job I decide to take. The FBI background check is good for 6 months and the recommendation letters are good for 2 years.

[pixie_fi]

[ttompatz]

Answers to FAQs.

1) Prepare your documents BEFORE you start looking for jobs.
Some documents (like CBCs) take time (up to 4 months) to arrange and most jobs are only posted 60-90 days before commencement.

2) Attach SCANS of your documents (degree, passport info page, CBC) to your applications/resume packages when using recruiters or applying directly to a school. Use a smaller file size (250k or less) per scan.

3) NEVER send the hard copies of your documents until you are sure you are ready to take the job and have a contract and firm job offer in hand.

.

[SLK]

You guys are awesome...and prompt too!

Thanks

meagan8477 - luckily the criminal record check etc. here in the UK doesn't take quite as long as that! Makes me feel a little better knowing my situation isn't *that* bad!

pixie_fi - Of course! that makes perfect sense... Thanks for clearing that up for me


ttompatz - Thank you, your succinct and definite answers are excellent reminder/pointers.

...all makes you wonder, wtf did people do back in the days before forums?!

Huge thanks everyone...this is one Korea-Newbie who's nerves have been soothed with forumlove. <3

[tdv01]

I'm new to this whole process as well and I'm in the USA. I have my state CRC but this federal CRC is new to me, can someone provide details on this?

[meagan8477]

[tdv01]

Is it standard now for an fbi crc instead of a state CRC?

[meagan8477]

Yes, they just changed it and you have to have the federal one by 1/1/11.