Simple tips for enthusiastic applicants who want to teach in china for the first time. It is focus to some non native speakers who want to enter ESL teaching.

The beginning of the next semester is just around the corner. Hiring of ESL teachers is on going however it is disheartening to note that most of the schools in China hire teachers from USA, UK, New Zealand, Canada, Australia, Ireland and South Africa. Though this is the case, Non native speakers should not be dismayed as there is always an exemption in this rule. Here are some simple  tips you can adapt to help you land a job in China:

  1. Brows the internet for ESL job openings. Visit www.daveseslcafe.com. It is one of the sites full of information on ESL job vacancies. Make sure to send a professional resume with a cover letter to schools you feel suits your qualifications.  It helps if you have a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL or TESOL certificate.
  2. If you do not have luck in this method,  just  fly  to China as a tourist. However before backpacking consider which city or province you want to go. The maximum stay for a tourist is two weeks which is very impossible to get a job. It is likely that you need to do an exit. Those who exit to Hongkong from Guangzhou and opt to go back are given another  one month stay. In addition, all pertinent papers such as diploma, official transcript of record and certificates if any should be prepared at home country with photocopies before leaving. This will save you time and money.
  3. Consider the location in the continuation of your job search. Big and developed cities like Shanghai and Beijing is likely the destination of native speakers. Try to go to other provinces like Henan, Shandong Urumuqi and others. This may give you more chance to be hired. Though a non native speaker can still find a job in Shanghai and Beijing including other tourist destination cities but with lower salary offer compared to native speakers.
  4. Try teaching kindergarten children. Vacancies in this level is in high demand in all places of China. Generally, most of it  are left out by native speakers. What you need only is a skill to teach Chinese pupils in a fun way. At least learn some 5 children songs and nursery rhymes with actions. The lesson usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. It depends on the school’s policy.
  5. The last resort is to use the aid of an agent. This will make the job hunt easier and faster. However extra care should be applied.  Make sure you got the work before you pay the agent fee.

With these guidelines in mind,   problem is minimized in getting an ESL job in China which can give you a head start in your teaching career.