Stand Out from the Competition & Land that Teaching Job
If you're a native English speaker or even someone who finds it easy to speak and understand the language, then one of the easiest high-paying jobs you can get is being an English teacher.
You can teach online or for institutions from where you live.
But, if you're the type of person who wants to really explore the world, immerse yourself in other cultures, become a traveler, or make a permanent exodus from your current hemisphere, then teaching English abroad is the perfect career for you!
If you feel like we are getting your hopes up, we can understand why. There are more than 1 billion people studying English as a second language (worldwide) and this number is growing rapidly by the second.
Why? Because more people—including adults, entrepreneurs and young professionals—want to expand their global reach for business purposes.
But don't get your hopes up! Here's why:
Many applicants fail to effectively display 2 key elements.
Simply remember these 2 vital tips to set yourself apart from others:
Know the requirements—and show it
Know the concepts—and prove it
Yes. Seriously. You'd be shocked and amazed to see how many international English teaching applicants do not reflect these 2 powerful elements within their job application process. Let's delve into the requirements (below) and unveil key steps that you don't want to miss out on.
TEFL Certification
We're putting this first in the list because this is as important as your aptitude for teaching. In fact, if you're not willing to take this very important course, you might as well forget about your dreams of teaching abroad.
Sure! For example, you can become a Conversational English Tutor (no certification required). Matter of fact, we highly advocate (and offer) many different levels of English learning and teaching at Gahn. However, this particular article targets a longer-term/ higher-salary goal for aspiring travelers and more. Therefore, getting your certification is #1.
Most employers look for your certification because it's proof that you are capable of teaching English as a foreign language. And although there are TEFL Certifications you can take abroad, don't forget to do your research. There are also courses you can take within your vicinity or online.
Note that not all institutions require a TEFL certification if you want to apply for a job. However, we cannot deny the fact that finishing and passing this course makes your résumé/CV look better and may boost your pay.
Employment Experience
Employers will prioritize hiring you as a teacher if you have past related working experiences in connection t teaching English. Usually, if you don't have any teaching experience but you worked as, let's say, a public speaker, a voice talent, a writer or any other job that requires a high literacy rate in the language, then you're going to get hired.
You just need to be trained about the education side of things. Again, this is where your TEFL Certification will come in handy because even without experience, you get an edge over other applicants without it.
Aptitude in the Language
It's not all about knowing English.
Teaching it means you have to know all concepts surrounding it.
Generally, you have to be good at verbal and written English. And since there are so many English words, you need to learn how to use the right words and when. You need to be fluent.
Your comprehension skills are a must as well.
Remember that you will be dealing with students who speak a foreign language.
It takes a really intelligent person to be able to get rid of that barrier and develop a good learning relationship with a student—especially if they have zero knowledge in English.
There is a possibility that you might even need to learn the basic language of the country you plan to migrate to. It's best to get a head start on this one if you already have a country in mind. Don't worry! There are several online resources for free that can get you started with basic grammar. Demonstrate how you are learning the local language or willing to learn. Sometimes, that should be enough.
Travel Requirements
Now, we know how difficult it is to take care of paper work. Getting a passport, filing for a Visa and contracts. Add to that the expense of all these requirements and you're going to have your hands full and an empty wallet with a lot of leg work.
Reality hits you. You realize all of the requirements you must have ready to enter a country. You don't want to to book a return flight simply because of technicalities.
On your application or interview, show that you have done your research and understand the process. Go the extra mile and demonstrate that you are experienced (or knowledgable) with working abroad and the basic immigration processes.
Once all of the travel requirements are done, then everything should run smoothly from there. Living arrangements and other basic needs will be your focus.
Startup Funds
Be smart with this. Never underestimate how living expenses in another country differ from the country you are in now. Do your research thoroughly and check everything—from food to transportation and your living setup. Have enough money for emergencies as well because it's hard to be away from your family and to be in another country and then end up needing health care or something similar.
Most importantly, know that requirements vary from country to country. So see what works best for you and prayerfully begin your journey. All the best to you!
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