1. "The 3 Most Important Things to Consider Before Taking a Teaching Job in China"Teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) has become one of the most popular career paths for expats worldwide, with millions flocking overseas every year to share their knowledge and experience different cultures.
It's not uncommon for teachers who have just arrived abroad to feel overwhelmed by cultural differences. However, teaching in China can be particularly challenging due to the vast array of schools available, which makes it important to make an informed decision when considering a job offer.
1) Your School: Know Before You Go!
When you're applying for jobs from your home country, all Chinese cities look about equal on Google Maps - they are not! Some may find their first school is in a remote part of China with limited English speakers and access to Western food.
For example I lived just outside the city of Wuhan which was great as it allowed me to easily take buses into town but others, particularly those working for smaller schools or universities found themselves on isolated campuses miles from anywhere.
2) Your Salary: What You'll Get vs What They Claim
When you're job hunting in your own country, there is often a set salary range and the benefits are clearly stated. However, when teaching abroad this can vary greatly depending on how desperate employers are for staff.
I found that I was being paid 9000 RMB per month which was more than enough to live comfortably off but some friends were receiving less even though they had better qualifications.
3) Your Visa: Don't Let It Stress You Out
The visa process is usually left up to the employer, and it's a major cause for stress. Some employers may offer you a job on an F-visa which doesn’t allow employees to work legally.
In fact I know some friends who were offered jobs with schools that didn't even have licenses so they couldn't obtain Z visas (the standard working visa) - be wary of any school offering employment without the correct license.
It's worth noting that there are plenty of resources available online for those looking into a career in teaching English abroad, including websites like Find Work Abroad and various expat forums. These can provide you with valuable insights from experienced teachers who have gone through what you're going through right now.
You should also ask questions about your school's reputation - it might sound strange but some schools are just better than others!
The final point to consider is that things don't always go as planned and that having a Plan B, C or D can help reduce stress levels.
If I were asked what advice I could give someone considering taking up teaching in China my response would be "just do it"! Teaching abroad may seem daunting at first but the experiences you have will last for life.
In conclusion, while there are many things to consider before accepting a job offer from an employer based thousands of miles away, these three aspects should take top priority. Your school and living situation can make or break your experience; understanding how much money you'll actually be earning is vital; and knowing which visa type will protect your rights as a foreign worker in China are all important factors to consider.
While the challenges faced by teachers abroad may seem insurmountable at times, they only add to the adventure that teaching English can bring. The experiences gained while living outside of our comfort zones often end up being some of our most valuable life lessons and it's these moments which make us better people - not just as teachers but in all areas of our lives.
This is why I would say "don't be afraid" because you might miss out on the opportunity to have experiences that will enrich your career, personal growth, and relationships. Don't let fear hold back from pursuing this rewarding path.
In fact if a friend had asked me for advice about moving abroad with no prior experience of living outside England I would tell them "don’t worry just do it."
Add a Comment
