How to Look for Teaching Work in Japan

Teaching in a foreign country is an exciting adventure and cultural experience, but research, planning and preparation are important to success. First, receive the required college teaching degree, preferably with a major in English, before you begin to look for teaching work in Japan. Learn the language or enough words and phrases to function. Become familiar with customs, cuisine, economy, currency and then look for teaching work in Japan.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet service
• Printer
• Notebook
• Folder
• Resume
• Cover letter
• Maps
• Visa

1. Begin the process to obtain a 90 day tourist visa. Once you have a job you will need a Japanese sponsor and work visa.
2. Determine where you want to look for teaching work in Japan. Choose from cities, suburbs, rural areas, coast or mountains to find an area that suits your needs, desires and character.
3. Consider your reasons for going to Japan when you look for teaching work. Establish if your priority is money, a desire for a cultural experience or an opportunity to assist in a humanitarian effort.
4. Gather the materials you need to conduct your job search. You will need a computer with Internet service, a printer, a notebook to write important information, a file folder for storage of copied material, a recent resume, cover letter and maps of Japan and major cities.
5. Surf the Internet and find sites that request teachers and recruit teachers for schools and corporations in Japan (see Resources). Recruiters that are seriously interested in you as a teaching candidate may give you advanced job placement, help you with a work visa and sponsor, provide travel expenses and find or give you a place to live.
6. Fly to Japan to look for teaching work. Contact the school districts that interest you and make an appointment for an interview once you decide the dates you will be available.

Tips & Warnings

• Take a pocket size Japanese dictionary when you look for teaching work in Japan.

Who Can Help:

• Earn an Associate's, Bachelor's or Master's Degree from the University of Phoenix
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