Getting a job—Preparing for an interview: Part II

The CareerFrames International Job Search site also offers an article on "International Interview Advice", written by Mary A. Schumacher. She emphasizes that knowing how to conduct yourself in an international interview is very important, because it will show the employer that you can manage yourself effectively—and without offending anyone—in your new cultural setting.

For example, looking an interviewer in the eye is common practice for Anglo-Americans, but it may be viewed as too forward in another culture. In order to find out about cultural differences such as these, Schumacher recommends searching the Internet and also talking to people who have lived in that country. More specifically, she advises that you "contact a chamber of commerce in that country, and ask about getting in contact with expatriates."

Online you can also check out examples of ESL teacher interviews. In an easy to read question and answer format, these examples provide great insights into what an employer might ask and, even better, how you might respond.

You also may be asked to prepare a sample lesson plan. While this will less likely occur when applying from abroad, I still feel it's a good idea to have one ready. This will make it easier to answer questions about your teaching style when you haven't taught in a formal setting before, like myself. You need only search to find an array of books and online sources that can help you put a lesson plan together. For example, at everythingESL.net, there is a whole section devoted to lesson plans. The site's author, Judie Haynes, also sells a variety of books specific to the age group and your needs. Many of the books even include reproducible classroom activities.

Finally, it's important to make sure you find out what you need to know from the interview. Sometimes you get so caught up in trying impress the employer and fit his or her ideal that you forget to assess whether the situation is right for you. In an article from Transitions Abroad, available in print and online, Jonathan Clark lists the "10 Most Important Questions to Ask" in a TEFL interview. This includes questions regarding hours, class size, teacher resources, benefits and more. I know I'll bring his 10 questions with me whenever I interview, as a reference and as a reminder that my needs are important too.

Print Source

Clark, Jonathan. "The TEFL Job Interview: The 10 Most Important Questions to Ask." Transitions Abroad. May/June 2004.