Korean Job Discussion Forums

[eventually]

how do you even do that, from the US? where do you start?

[ttompatz]

[Zyzyfer]

I've only used a recruiter once (my first year). The vast majority of my jobs since have been through people I know recommending that I apply. I did get two jobs through direct application to ads, but I had built up the relevant experience to set myself apart as a candidate by that stage.

If you're doing your first year, it won't be easy to bypass the recruiter route.

[lorenchristopher]

Craigslist or the job board here on eslcafe. Of course there are recruiters that post, but there are also school that post positions themselves....that's how I got my job here in Korea.

It's easy and better (in my opinion) to be patient and diligent and search for a job directly through a school rather than have a middle-man get in the way of communication. A reputable/decent hagwon will have someone who speaks English that you will be communicating with.

[furtakk]

I'm trying to do the same thing at the moment now and I'm in Korea.

Besides the big chains, everything on craigslist/daves are recruiter adds. All of them are useless if you have any specific requests.

Any suggestions? Most of my friends working here are either in the public system (which I can't do) or crappy hagwons. My Korean is decent (I'm a student at the moment) and I can communicate enough to express what kind of position I'm looking for and whatnot.

I'm also hoping to work on a student visa instead which makes things even more complicated. Most schools don't even know it's possible.

[Weigookin74]

Boycot most of the based in Korea recruiters. Use only recruiters based in a western country. From what I've seen there are too many here that have the Korean mentality of doing business and the waygooks got shafted. There are a couple of big name recruiters based here that are ok. (Footprints, Korvia, etc) But some of the others just want to put you in a bad job, do bait and switch, get their recruitment bonus and leave you hanging.

Most western recruiters will at least try to make sure the school has a good rep and have a more 'ethical' mindset. Not saying they're perfect but make sure you do your own homework. It really is buyer beware over here.

[canarsie]

I just started asking around on Facebook and Twitter. A college friend of mine hooked me up with her coworker who taught in Daegu. After asking him some questions he connected me with an American couple in Daegu who teach at a hagwon. They interviewed me for an opening at their school. Networking at its finest. Plus, I spoke to multiple people about the hagwon, director, living conditions, etc. and it helped me make a more informed decision.

[mariaanceney]

Like the other posters said, be patient and thorough when combing through the Dave's job forum. I found 2 jobs last year that weren't with recruiters, and they had the best benefits/salary/etc.

[Pa Jan Jo A Hamnida]

Apply directly.