TEFL / TESOL Blog


7 Common Mistakes TEFL Teachers Make When Applying To International Schools


4th November 2024

Research reveals that nearly 7 million children are enrolled in 13,614 English-medium international schools worldwide, The industry is producing over $58 billion, an 18% increase over five years.

Teachers may take advantage of the amazing chances for professional development and cultural enrichment by avoiding frequent application process mistakes. While adequate preparation offers doors to rich cultural exchanges and personal growth, careful planning may result in savings and financial security. Instructors must carefully negotiate the application procedure and steer clear of frequent mistakes that might impede their success if they want to take full advantage of this great opportunity.

Top 7 Mistakes To Stay Away From To Bag Great Opportunities

When applying for TEFL jobs, be mindful to avoid these common mistakes:

1. Application Process

Refrain from sending identical cover letters and résumé to several different colleges. Rather, tailor each application to emphasize experiences and abilities pertinent to the particular institution and role.

Avoid assuming that pay packages will be comparable to those in your own country or neglect to look into the usual advantages offered to foreign instructors in the area you are targeting. Don't overestimate or underestimate your value.

2. Interview And Communication

During interviews, avoid drawing conclusions or analogies based only on the educational system in your native country. Be mindful of and respectful of cultural differences.

Steer clear of slang, informal language, and culturally particular humor that might be misunderstood in a cross-cultural setting. Keep your interactions professional at all times.

3. Contract And Logistics

Never sign a contract before thoroughly going over all of the terms. Keep a tight eye on crucial details such as tax requirements, airfare reimbursements, and housing allowances.

Don't put off crucial tasks like banking setup or housing arrangements till the last minute. To guarantee a more seamless transfer, plan ahead for the logistics of relocating overseas.

4. Not Earning Proper Credentials

When searching for online teaching jobs, don't make the mistake of contacting companies before you have the required TEFL certification and credentials. Instead, obtain them before applying for jobs.

Make sure you have a general 120-hour TEFL course online or offline training to show prospective employers that you understand the fundamentals of teaching English to speakers of various languages.

5. Not Following Instructions

Depending on whatever online English company you apply to, the application procedure may differ considerably. If you can show that you are articulate and have solid following skills, you will have a better chance of moving further in the application process.

Make sure you finish all the steps in the application process and carefully study the instructions given by the online teaching company.

6. Failing To Prepare For A Demo Lesson

Your online interview and/or demo lesson is one of the most important parts of the hiring process. In a nutshell, the demo lesson is an observed demonstration of your online teaching skills in a fake setting. In essence, this is your chance to impress the interviewer and persuade them to hire you.

If you go this far in the application process, the organization will provide you with detailed instructions ahead of time and a lesson to memorize to help you prepare. Look over the materials the company supplied you for the demo lesson and interview, and follow the instructions carefully. Until it comes naturally to you, repeat the example lesson many times.

7. Using A Generic Resume

Another common mistake made by applicants for online teaching roles is using a generic resume that needs to be updated, is misspelled, or isn't specifically tailored for the position you're seeking.

When applying for online English teaching positions, the resume is typically utilized as a screening tool to ensure that you possess the TEFL/TESOL certifications, degrees, and experience that the company is looking for. Create a polished and easily readable resume by using a free graphic design application like Canva. Make sure to highlight on your resume any experience you have dealing with adults or children if you plan to educate them.

Explore A World Full Of Opportunities

The secret to applying for online teaching positions successfully is to be well-prepared. Make sure you are fully certified and have a 120-hour TEFL course online or offline certificate from an accredited institution to increase your chances of getting hired by famous companies. Additionally, show oneself properly and do out in-depth study.
 

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Written By : Sudeshna Guha Thakurta    Share



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