Non-native English speaker

[winterborn]

Hi hi! Newbie here! *waves frantically*

Just what are the chances of a non-native English speaker getting a job in either S.Korea or Japan? I'm Malaysian of Chinese descent. I had education in the English language since kindergarten days, and I was in Australia for 3 years to complete my undergrad studies. I speak average Japanese (about JLPT Level 3) but minimal Korean (mostly self-learning).

I have keen interest in teaching English. Will probably do a Dip. in TESOL later.

Any ideas?

~Antonia

P/S Cool forums, btw! ^_^

[english grammar man]

Welcome Antonio!

Well, I think you should rule out teaching adult classes. It's possible to get children classes with your background. But you need to be physically present in either Japan or S.Korea to boost your chances.

Japan would be your best bet since you speak some Japanese. I would avoid mentioning that you are non-native. Just focus on your strengths, ie. Education in Australia, your English education etc. Would be helpful to get a TEFL certificate too.

You might want to checkout the visa rules with the Japan visa office and see if they issue working visas to citizens from your country to teach English.

I know of a Swiss girl who teaches in Japan, but she couldn't get a visa as an English teacher. So her Japanese friend owns a company and sponsored her to be a translator even though she doesn't even work for that company.

There are other companies out there that can sponsor you if you pay them the right amount of money.... aka Yakuza's etc..

[winterborn]

o_O;;; The yakuzas?? -____-;;

And the name's AntoniA.

From what I can see in the job listings, I think the hiring companies in Japan would prefer native speakers??

[english grammar man]

Yep, you're correct Antonia. Sorry about getting your name wrong.

ALL English schools will naturally prefer native English speakers no matter what country you teach in. That's why if you are not native, then you really need to be in the country in person to apply for the teaching jobs.