Korean Job Discussion Forums

[pattyb]

I've been trying to land a job for awhile now with no luck. My conclusion is that I'm not being offered jobs because of my age (45). It really sucks to feel "over the hill" at age 45. LOL

Before all the questions about my resume, picture, etc., let me say that I'm qualified, not over qualified and I'm in excellent shape and have a good photo that I have been sending.

I know that age is holding me back because as a test, on several applications, I did not list my age and the recruiters where "all over me." It was only after I told them my age that the emails stopped and the recruiters disappeared. A few honest recruiters admitted that my age was the problem.

Luckily, I have a job currently that can pay my bills and I'm not unemployable in my home country. I would have liked to have given this career change a go but the discrimination seems to be rampant in regards to age.

I would like to hear from "older" teachers who are experiencing this negativity towards age and/or thoughts on how to overcome it.

PS: I even went as far as sending my diploma, background check, all documents, etc. (along with the 200 dollar Fed Ex fee) only to be told that the employer had changed their mind and decided to hire a younger female teacher that was already in Korea. Keep in mind; I had already signed a contract! But what can you do when you are half way around the world? Luckily, I did get my docs back but it was a nightmare.

[youtuber]

Yes, the age discrimination is as bad as you think it is. Especially now, due to the surplus of teachers. Employers can be picky.

If you have a job in the West, for god's sake don't come to Korea. Because if you want to return to said job after your stint in Korea, it will be very very difficult. And you will return home.

[liveinkorea316]

I understand the Korean school ownners because they are looking for someone with more energy and who can relate better to kids and teenagers. It is a fair assumption on their part that younger (about 20~33yo) teachers would more likely fit this bill.

Its just the way things go in a free market.

[Junior]

[nero]

[northway]

If you've got the qualifications, why not look somewhere else in Asia where they matter more and you can make similar cash?

[imoscardotcom]

I've been told numerous times that employers are becoming wary of hiring 20-somethings since they are supposedly just coming to Korea to party. So don't give up hope
Why not try for a rural location? Mention in your emails to recruiters that you are extremely flexible in terms of location. Good luck!!

[Pojogae]

I trust you are not just applying for jobs in Seoul and Busan.

I feel my age is a disadvantage as well, and I'm just 33 - although not being North American doesn't help.

This is going to be my last contract in Korea, I think. I'm just thoroughly bored with their childish prejudices, and that glazed look they get on their faces when you try to explain some of the contradictions in them. Still, the next Korean that starts moaning to me about unqualified teachers just coming over here to party is going to get it with both barrels.

Try China, O.P. You're sure to get a job there, and after a year of experience, then maybe a Korean school will consider you, if for some strange reason you are determined to come to Korea.

[pangaea]

Have you tried applying for Epik or Smoe? I've known people in their 40s and 50s who have worked here in public schools.

[SandyG21]

I am currently working as a substitute teacher in the USA and get compliments on my energy and being engaged with the students and willing to work and think fast and be flexible as I work with students. Many principals and teachers have told me younger teachers want to just sit at the desk or in a corner and if things get tough (and anyone who has worked as a sub knows what I am talking about) the younger ones have been known to bail out and ask to go home. There is something to be said about having 20 years of experience and having actual teacher education. Now I know a lot of people will say then someone should be looking at the "real" international schools - but those jobs are super competitive - even more so than Korea is now. I know there are older teachers in Korea and other countries - I have corresponded with them - so they are over there teaching. We just have to battle the stereotype - of people over 40 - not having energy!

I know a woman who is teaching in the USA who is 80 and the students love her and she is fantastic and full of energy!

With the majority of the worlds population being babyboomers (and mostly female) - it is time we spoke up and let people know that older teachers are just as valuable as younger teachers.

[imoscardotcom]

[Pojogae]

[Easy Rider]

I've seen many job ads now asking for 30 years old or younger.

As has been mentioned in other threads by other posters - there is a glut of applicants here now and less jobs due to Korea's and our home countries economic situations meaning the employers now can have what they consider the pick of the crop, ie young under 30's NA female / Male, tall and handsome Ivy league grad (and yes even those guys are applying - I've seen the resumes!)

[Koreastyle]

[The Cosmic Hum]