How Do I Get My First TEFL Job?

17th June 2022

So, you have made up your mind to enter the world of ESL teaching! – Well, once you have spent those 120 hours of course work in your TEFL course and you are wondering what to do next!

You have landed on just the right blog. And the good news is TEFL teaching platform is experiencing an upsurge and the demand for foreign teachers is greater too. This goes both for online as well as abroad teaching jobs. With that being said, both qualifications and experience you'll need are also differ depending on where you are applying. Before you delve into finding jobs ask yourself these questions:
 

• Which group of learners would you prefer to teach: adults or children?
• Do you want to work remotely or travel & teach? – preferred country/countries you would like to go to.
• Do you want a full-time income or want a side gig or freelance?

Landing your first TEFL job can seem a bit tricky since everything is new to you. This automatically asks for thorough research of the ESL/EFL market. Once you get to know how this industry works you will feel much more comfortable. In the realm of education, the TEFL industry is notmuch different from any other as the field may be a bit competitive but proficiency and confidence are what will matter the most when it comes to cracking the job. English being a prevalent language of communication across the world, your learners are from all over the world. This means there is a constant demand for international English teachers including newly qualified TEFL teachers.

So how do you find your TEFL job!
 

• First thing first, check with the TEFL course provider do they offer placement service! – If so you will save yourself from stress and a lot of time. TEFL provider who offers these kinds of service helps their trainees to get connected with recruiters. Some even help with resume/CV and interview preparation also. So if you have done the course from an institute that can offer you this kind of service, it’s going to a great for any freshly TEFL certified educator. However, if you are yet to pursue a TEFL course, the best suggestion would be to keep this pointer in your checklists before you spend your money.
   
• Furthermore, don’t forget the internet is a treasure trove when it comes to job ads. Once you have figured out where and what kind of job you want, you can search for your preference. You can also search for reputable online expat forums for potential job leads. When you do that, keep in mind to do a little bit of research on the school, institute, or the company you want to work with and also read reviews to get insider information.
   
• It is noteworthy to mention the scams. Of course, don't jump to a conclusion, but if the salary and perks seem to be too good to be true or if they ask for money (pay job application or work visa fees) think twice before making your decision. Cross-check these job opportunities, local authorities and compare them with similar vacancies.
   
• Once you have applied don’t think that your work is done here. Keep communicating with the organizations you have applied to. Although most employers have a policy of only responding to a prospective employee. However, you can still check with them to have an update. Besides, you have nothing to lose, in fact for all you know a friendly reminder can end up helping the recruiter to dig out your CV as you have made a direct impression.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to go about your job search with your TEFL certificate, don’t forget that opportunities are right there, all you need is a good attitude with a motivated mind. Often choosing the right TEFL job involves a bit of self-reflection. Why do you want a career in the ESL field and how this profession can nourish you both personally and professionally? Once you know the purpose, everything will fall into place at the right time!

Happy Job Hunting...