How to Choose a School in Japan at Which to Teach English

You can afford to travel if you combine travel and employment. Even an expensive country such as Japan becomes affordable if combined with a job and English teachers are always in demand. Since the quality of your experience in Japan depends on the school where you teach, choose your best experience by knowing the basics.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Apply to schools that hire abroad, typically very large, organized language schools with campuses across the country. Among the largest, Aeon and Geos will interview and hire from the United States and Canada, arrange your visa and housing. They also provide books and structure so you need little preparation before you enter the classroom. The JET program provides instruction and mentoring to children. Some smaller schools will also hire abroad; try Grandom, GABA, ECC and WinBe if you already have a TESOL certificate or training in teaching English.
2. Learn basic Japanese etiquette even before you interview. While you may look people in the eye as you briefly shake their hand, look away immediately; it is rude to stare. Arrive at the interview early and, if female, in a tight dress. Politely state your opinion without openly disagreeing with anyone. Bring two copies of your resume. Read blogs such as All About Teaching English (see Resources) and sites such as JNTO.
3. Wait until you arrive in Japan to interview, scanning Internet job boards for positions. Popular sites include ELT News and Jobs in Japan. For any ESL news or contacts, look into Dave's ESL Café, a longstanding, helpful site for teachers and students alike.

Tips & Warnings

• Pack very lightly, favoring clothes over gadgets. Apartments in Japan are tiny and electronics plentiful. Take extra shoes (no laces) and underwear if your size is not typical of the average Japanese. Since you will likely teach five days a week, you need formal clothing (suit and tie for men, office wear for women) for seven to 10 days' wear.
• Stay away from websites or ads that promises job leads in return for payment. The only guarantee is that they will have your money.

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