Writing the application letter - AEON

[Georgie]

Hi!

Since it's looking far more complicated to get a teaching position in the Americas than I thought, I've reverted to my original plan to try to get a teaching job in Japan instead. (Yeah, I know, you can't get two more different regions of the world.)

Anyway, I have searched this site and found plenty of advice on the interview process, but haven't found any advice on writing the application letter.

I guess what I want to know is what percentage of my application should I dedicate to my love of Japan and how much to selling myself, like a traditional job application letter? I'm applying for AEON (please, no AEON bashing) and they request a full page letter on "why you want to live and work in Japan."

Can anyone who has successfully gained interviews with the major ESL's please assist? Thanks!

[gfell]

Thought I had a sample on file, but seems I have deleted it.

Anyway, AEON has been asking for these application letters for years now. I think they only do it to weed out the time wasters. They probably feel that if an applicant actually sits down and puts time into a 1 page letter for them, then the applicant is serious about applying.

So, what they are looking for is that you can fit into living in a different culture and what you know about Japan. I would write 1 or 2 paragraphs on Japan, any Japanese friends you have had, Japanese inventions and the willingness of the Japanese to pull together in times of need and help each other. Back up your comments with real-life experiences. Example, the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake in Kobe highlights the way the Japanese help each other in times of need.

Also, touch on your own experiences being placed in unfamiliar surrounds. Eg: your holidays abroad and that you weren't afraid to try new foods etc.

It's a good idea to also mention any teaching experience you have, or experience coaching soccer, babysitting, tutoring or something along the lines of teaching. Even if it was in your company training new employees.

AEON basically wants to see that you can fit into a new culture and have the people skills to be able to effectively teach.

Do these ideas help?