Korean Job Discussion Forums

swh374 · Joined: 06 Apr 2013

Hi all, I'm wanting to teach in Korea next year and am wondering about AskNow recruiting. They have been responsive to me in emails and have answered most (if not all) of my questions. Still, being paranoid, I wanted to hear from you guys.

Have any of you gone to Korea through ASKNOW recently? (Or ASKETO as I think it's called now). The only thing that worries me about them is that there is virtually no online information about them that has been updated since 2010. I found that kind of strange.

Anyways, just thought I would put it out there. Any information would be awesome.

Thanks!

northway · Joined: 05 Jul 2010

Doesn't Jason Cresswell own a bar now? Dude always pops up on my LinkdIn.

ttompatz · Joined: 05 Sep 2005 Location: Kwangju, South Korea

Who cares?

They are good.
They are the best.
They are bad.
They are the worst.

They are an introduction to a potential employer that you yourself would not otherwise be able to find. Then, if they are any good at their job, they guide you through the placement and assist with the paperwork necessary to get you as far as the employer.

They are NOT your friend.
They do NOT work for you (they are paid for and work for the employer).

They are like a used car salesman.
You walk onto their car-lot (website), peruse the cars (available jobs), if you see one you like you inquire about it.

After you listen to the sales pitch you let YOUR mechanic have a look at it (due diligence checking out the school).

If it is all good then you make the offer (accept the contract) and complete the sale (begin the paperwork for your visa application).

A good salesman will ensure that the paperwork is in order to make the sale and allow you to register the car. (A good recruiter will make sure your paperwork is in order and help get you through the paperwork to get your visa.)

I have no problem with using a recruiter or telling anyone else to use one (or more the case, many). They are your best option for fining the BEST fit when it comes to a job in Korea (or most of Asia for that matter).

For someone who is abroad, no connections and no ability to communicate in Korean then recruiters are a necessary evil.

That doesn't mean it is a crap shoot.

ALL recruiters are good. All recruiters are bad.
BUT they are a bridge to a job that you would not otherwise find.

The trick is in understanding what they are and what they do.

7777.