Korean Job Discussion Forums

[MoonArisa]

When going through an interview with a potential school, does the attitude/personality of the person you're speaking with (often the director) influence your decision of taking the job or not?

The first interview I've had so far, the director didn't seem very pleased to be there (doing the interview), and at times even a bit rude. There are things I understand must be clearly explained, but there are always ways to make them sounds less obnoxious. It felt like the director was speaking to a high school student rather than a teacher and potential employee.

Perhaps this is just another side of cultural differences? What are your experiences?

Ultimately, I'm just wondering if a job that doesn't look too bad (though not great either) should be considered or not when the first impression of a future employer is not a good one.

Thanks in advance

[lifeinkorea]

I think it depends on the person you will work most closely with. At a public school this is your co-teacher and the head English teacher. It doesn't matter if the principal is terrible. For hagwons it's also co-teachers and there will be a manager. Some bigger places also have a head English teacher, but generally it's the other "manager" you need to worry about, the one doing your scheduling. If you are on good terms with them and things go well, the owner of the hagwon won't even care about you like the principal.

You have to judge what you are willing to put up with. A small hagwon run by husband and wife might not be the most secure, but they will treat you the best. A bigger hagwon will use teachers against themselves. Just make sure you have good working relationships. When those crumble....another one bites the dust!!