Do you dream of living in Japan? Do you want to work as a teacher? Are you thinking of changing careers or gaining experience in an international professional environment? Teaching English in Japan can be a rewarding experience.
Steps
Part 1 of 9: Meet the Basic Requirements
Step 1. You should have at least a bachelor's degree
Having a degree is a fundamental requirement. It is not to do the job itself, but for the work residence permit. Without a work permit (or a permit obtained after marrying a person of Japanese citizenship), you are not legally allowed to practice any profession in Japan. It is a migration law. Without a bachelor's degree, you will not be given a work residence permit in Japan. And you certainly don't want to break Japanese law. If you are caught red-handed while working without a residence permit, you will be arrested and deported. The degree does not have to be in languages or teaching, but such preparation may be more useful. In any case, any bachelor's degree will do.
Step 2. Start saving money
If you want to work in Japan, then you need good financial resources. It is advisable to have at least 2,000 euros available, which will help you pay the expenses while waiting for the first salary. Also, you will need to buy suits or suits to go to work. Most schools require formal attire, but some allow you to take off your jacket in class, especially in the summer. You should have at least three good quality suits. Remember that you will then have to pay for train and plane tickets. Depending on where you will be interviewing, the cost of the trip varies (they may even offer you the opportunity to attend a preliminary meeting in the country where you currently reside). Finally, you have to pay for the direct flight to Japan.
Step 3. You should have a clean criminal record
In other words, no arrests. The government does not grant a residence permit to a person who has committed crimes. They can overlook minor offenses dating back several years, but those committed in the five years prior to applying for a permit generally constitute an obstacle. In these cases, the request is usually denied.
Part 2 of 9: Doing Research
Step 1. Find a school to teach
In Japan, there are hundreds of English schools. They are almost all private and are usually called Eikaiwa, which literally means "English conversation". These institutions generally offer a good working environment, and they hire very easily. In addition, they help their employees to organize their life in the country. The salary is also more than acceptable for an entry level job.
- Connect to the internet and find out about the different types of schools. Generally speaking, there are four quite famous ones, with branches all over the country, but there are also hundreds of smaller ones. Start by making a list of the best known institutions. Alternatively, if you want to move to a certain city, look for a school in this place.
- Read the experiences of other teachers on the internet. Many professors talk about their work experiences in these schools. It's a good way to know the pros and cons of each institution.
- Visit the school website directly. It offers a lot of information on salaries, types of classes, housing, responsibilities and so on.
- Read student comments. If you understand Japanese, taking a look at the opinions of students who attended the school you are interested in is a great idea. You will get more useful information about the atmosphere of the enterprise. Pupils 'comments are generally quite different from teachers' comments because they see the school from another point of view. Knowing both perspectives will help you choose the ideal school for you.
Step 2. Learn about life in Japan
Your working life will be only part of this international experience. You should know more about Japanese culture and customs. Read stories of people who have lived there and prefer them to books. In fact, books often contain stereotyped or outdated information. Experiences from real people will give you a more truthful insight into Japan. Does this lifestyle suit you? Remember that you will work in a Japanese professional environment (although this depends on the school). Since all of your students are likely to be Japanese, understanding their culture is essential.
Step 3. Review English grammar and typically misspelled words
You will likely need to take a small English exam during the interview. This test includes the conjugation of verbs in different tenses (for example, you will be asked for the Past Perfect) and also a section focused on spelling. It is highly recommended to look up a list of words that are commonly misspelled and to practice conjugating irregular verbs, even if English is your second native language.
Step 4. Start studying Japanese
You don't need it for business purposes, but it is useful for reading student names and even using computers. It will also help you find your way around the country, especially if you don't live in a big city.
Part 3 of 9: Finding out if it's your true dream
Step 1. Keep the following in mind before making a decision:
- Most companies require a contract with a minimum duration of one year. In other words, you must live in Japan and work at this company for at least 365 days. You will be able to take advantage of the Golden Week, Obon and New Year holidays to visit your family and go home. Aside from that, be prepared to stay away from family and friends for at least a year.
- Do not terminate the contract. For a company, it is not easy to find new teachers, take care of the documents of future professors and organize their training. In the period between your firing and the arrival of a new teacher, the school will have more than one problem. He will have to look for a substitute teacher or an emergency professor, which is very expensive. If you terminate the contract, the institution may hold you responsible for these expenses and charge you for them, even if you have to go home.
- In addition, students need an available teacher. If you leave out of the blue, then pupils' motivation will wane, and they certainly don't deserve it. Are you ready to make the commitment for at least a year?
Part 4 of 9: Apply for an Interview
Step 1. Visit the website of the school you are interested in and find out about the place and time of the interview
Choose a place and time that is right for you. Follow the instructions given by the institution on the web page and apply.
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The school may require you to write an essay on why you want to work and live in Japan. Follow the guidelines indicated by the company. Respecting the indications is not only important for these institutions, but in the country in general. You should talk about why you love Japan and teaching. In the essay, also emphasize your strengths.
These schools are looking for enthusiastic teachers, so you should include words like deep interest, overwhelming passion, intellectually stimulating, and so on. For example, write: I have held a deep interest in Japan and teaching since I was in junior high school. In our history class, we learned how to write our name in katakana and it really piqued my curiosity in the culture. Furthermore, I have an overwhelming passion for learning and teaching and hope to pursue it in my future; "I have had a great interest in Japan and teaching since I was in junior high. During a history lesson, we learned to write our names in Katakana: this really piqued my curiosity about this culture. Also, I have a great passion for studying and teaching, and I hope to cultivate it in the future ". Use these phrases so that the employer knows your personality better
- The essay should highlight your personality, but it should also reflect your language skills. Likely, you will be required to teach different types of students, from beginner to advanced level. Using sophisticated vocabulary and expressions will allow the essay to stand out. For example, instead of writing I have always wanted to be a teacher, write I have always had my heart set on a teaching career.
- Don't use slang, which can be considered unprofessional. Professionalism is extremely important, and these schools pride themselves on offering a serious image. Prove that you are an educated, determined, professional and competent individual, with a lot of energy and passion.
Step 2. Write your resume
It's pretty simple. If you don't know how to do this, you will find several articles on wikiHow to help you learn.
Step 3. Fix everything
Rest assured that your application will be trashed if it is chock full of spelling and grammatical errors. Correct it several times. Also, ask someone else to check it out too. If you are not absolutely sure about certain grammar rules, search the internet for them. Of course, you need to know the language perfectly, but if in doubt, learn to be familiar with grammar resources such as books and websites. In this way, even when you teach you will know what to do when you have uncertainties about certain rules and you can clearly explain them to the students.
Step 4. Prepare a lesson
You should organize a 50-minute educational program regarding the type of lesson you want to give. If you are called for an interview, you will need to choose five minutes of the program and explain this part to the interviewers. The plan should be suitable for a beginner class (an intermediate level student program may also work). It should be fun and engaging. Speak only to give instructions. Create a schedule set up in a way that allows students to have conversation or group activities. Remember that you are applying for a job that will require you to teach English and stimulate practical use of the language, so get students to practice conversations. Offer them a targeted vocabulary, grammar rule, or situation to work with.
Step 5. Submit your application and wait for a response
Part 5 of 9: Go to the Interview
Step 1. If your application is successful, arrange to attend the interview
Most of the questions are accepted, but it is during the interview that many people are rejected. Most likely, the meeting will be held in a hotel, so book a room at the establishment. The interview could be divided into two stages, scheduled on different days. If you pass the first phase, then the second will take place the next day. Book the room for at least two nights.
Step 2. If you need to travel by plane or train, plan as soon as possible
Just as there's no excuse for being late for work, it's not acceptable to be late for an interview either. Plan your trip accordingly.
Step 3. Dress right
- Pack a pair of suits, nice shoes, a quality pen, a notebook to take notes, and any accessories or materials you would use to teach a lesson. If you have paper to print, use colored ink. If you use flashcards, laminate them. The presentation should be as professional as possible. The demonstration of a lesson lasts only five minutes, but it is the commitment you have dedicated to it that will impress the interviewers, because they will understand if there is a lot of work behind you. Never propose a trial lesson without using images or objects. Also, iron the suit and polish the shoes.
- Do not carry perfume, excess makeup (foundation alone), more than one pair of earrings, more than one ring, and any other flashy or colorful accessory with you. Japanese people tend to wear a lot of accessories, but not to the office. Excessive make-up created with eyeliner and eye shadow is frowned upon. It is absolutely inadvisable to paint your nails (only clear polish can work). These are all considered unprofessional elements, and, if hired, they will still be prohibited at school.
- If you are a woman, wear closed-front socks and heels. Avoid ballet flats, bright colors (pink, red, yellow, orange) and total black. Aim for a balanced image: Schools want teachers who look professional, but also easy-going and friendly. Think about these factors before you go to the interview.
- If you are a man, shave your face, or wear a very short beard. In Japan, it is relatively rare for men, especially business men, to grow beards. If they decide to do so, it is always neat and neat. If hired, this will be an important requirement for the school.
- Hide the tattoos. If you have one in plain sight, the school will not hire you. Some institutions have no problem with this, the important thing is to keep them hidden and not tell the students. The pupils may not care, but if they tell the staff of the institution, you may have problems.
Part 6 of 9: Attending the First Interview
Step 1. Arrive early
In Japan, this is important for your future job and most events. Always show up 10-15 minutes early.
Step 2. Don't speak Japanese to anyone
Language is usually not required to do this job. Furthermore, in the school it is probably forbidden to speak Japanese to students, or even in their presence. Using the language of the Land of the Rising Sun during an interview or trial lesson is not a good tactic: you risk not being taken into consideration. Furthermore, the institutions do not want professors to speak Japanese in the workplace.
Step 3. You will be introduced to the company
Take notes and listen carefully. Ask questions to convey your interest and show that you are actually paying attention.
Step 4. Prepare yourself mentally for the trial lesson
You should have already chosen the five minute lesson you want to demonstrate. There will be several interviewers and many other candidates who will take on the role of students during your lesson. When it is the turn of the others to make the presentation, you will become their pupil in turn. Probably, more than one interviewer will attend the lesson. Prepare for this moment. Breathe deeply and drink some water.
Step 5. Present the trial lesson
- Smile often. It is a huge plus. Be cheerful and make students smile. Happy pupils will want to continue attending school and will love to attend your lessons. So, sport a beautiful smile.
- Give the instructions clearly, slowly and simply. Speak only when necessary.
- Make use of gestures. Express yourself using well-defined gestures, even exaggerated ones. Be witty. Schools want a teacher who explains topics without using words and who can keep students' attention alive. Using gestures and smiling a lot are tactics that will help you forget your nervousness. Have fun, you will see that the students and the interviewer will also have a pleasant experience.
- Always teach something new. If students are simply to converse freely, teach them more advanced expressions. For example, if your practice class is about travel and a student (who is another candidate in this case) says It was great, also teach him phrases like It was fantastic or It was out of this world. Always teach something new, but make sure pupils talk a lot and actually apply what they have learned. You can also encourage them to repeat a new word or phrase once or twice.
- Don't blame those present. During a trial class, you may find that another candidate tries to complicate your life by asking an off-topic question or ignoring the instructions. Do not worry. You simply have to smile, respond if you can, and continue with the lesson. If you can't give an answer, don't fret! Just say That's a very good question (student name). Let's talk about it together after the lesson. Let's continue now. In the school where you work, you will find yourself dealing with students of this type. Knowing how to manage them and control the lesson is essential for a teacher. Promise them to help, but at another time.
- Don't talk too much. Don't lecture. You are teaching conversation in English, so you want your students to speak.
- Don't complicate another candidate's trial lesson. Be a good "student". Do exactly what you are told. Interfering with another person's work will seem unprofessional.
Step 6. Wait to receive a letter from the interviewers
You will know if you have been invited to a second interview or not.
Part 7 of 9: Have a Second Interview
Step 1. The second interview will be much more traditional
Probably, you will find yourself facing only one interviewer. He will ask you classic interview questions. Prepare the answers.
Step 2. Offer a second trial lesson
In this case, you cannot prepare the lesson at home. You are told what to do on the spot, with no warnings. It will probably be a lesson aimed at children. The interviewer might show you a book and take a random page. He will tell you that you have one minute to prepare and three minutes to teach him a subject illustrated on that page, imagining that you are addressing a five-year-old. The interviewer will leave the room and give you a few minutes to look at the page and decide what you will teach and how. For example, imagine that zoo animals are featured on the page in question.
Step 3. Mentally prepare to break out of the shell
The interviewer will return to the room, but will have the mental disposition of a five-year-old. He won't act, but sometimes he'll act like he doesn't understand you. Go out of your way to teach him a concept, and make the lesson fun. Be nice if you have to. Are the zoo animals listed on the page? Make noises and then clearly pronounce the name of the animal. Also use your gestures. Pretend your arm is an elephant's trunk. Invite the student to imitate you, and repeat the animal's name together. It might sound weird to you, but it's fun for a five-year-old. Moreover, he will hardly forget the vocabulary you taught him! Sometimes, you'll need to be able to go off-the-cuff, so having the ability to get ready in no time is essential.
Step 4. After the trial lesson, explain to the interviewer what kind of place you want to work while residing in Japan
Be specific: big city, town, countryside, ocean, mountains, and so on. Also, indicate whether you prefer to teach children or adults. Tell him exactly what you want. If he intends to hire you, then he will look for a suitable place for you, even if it takes a few months.
Step 5. Finish the interview and go home
Wait to get a phone call.
Part 8 of 9: Get Your Documents Hired and Prepared
Step 1. If the school wants to hire you, then you will get a phone call
If you have proven that you are an energetic, sociable teacher, capable of giving your all to prepare a trial lesson, and able to teach a fun lesson on the fly, then you should be able to get this job in Japan.
Step 2. Follow the interviewer's instructions to obtain a residence permit, receive a certificate of eligibility to work in Japan and know the starting date
Ask any questions that come to your mind.
A contract will be sent to you. Read it very carefully, without missing any details. Remember it is a legal agreement. Don't rescind it and don't take it lightly
Step 3. If you don't have a passport, go for it
Step 4. If you take medications, inquire about the availability of identical or similar medications in Japan
Some products are illegal in this country.
Part 9 of 9: Moving to Japan and Attending the Training
Step 1. Pack your bags and take the plane
Bring the bare essentials with you. You can buy the supplies in Japan once you arrive, or your family can send you what you need later. Your apartment will be small, and the same goes for the center where the training will take place. Carry only formal suits, casual clothes and personal hygiene products. Maybe add a book to study Japanese.
Step 2. Get to know your colleagues at the airport
Go to the center where the training will be held with the instructor and the rest of the group. Typically, you need to attend a training course. Make friends with your mates.
The training will last several days. Don't take it lightly. It can be fun, but it's long. You will have to carry out tasks and dedicate yourself to projects. The instructor will teach you to do your job well during the year you will teach. Do not miss classes. Complete everything meticulously. It is possible to be excluded from training, so as a result, you will not be sent to work at the branch you were assigned to. Again, if you don't take training seriously, the company may very well send you home
Step 3. After training, go to your assigned branch, meet your new co-workers and students, and enjoy your new life as an English teacher transplanted to Japan
Advice
- Make your lessons fun. Students who enjoy a course are more motivated and eager to continue studying.
- Be professional, friendly, and respectful of the rules.
- You should have a bachelor's degree. You cannot obtain a work residence permit without.
- Save a good nest egg. Attending the interview and starting to live in a foreign country is expensive.
- Get ready to step out of your comfort zone. You will need to entertain the interviewer and the students.
- Start studying Japanese. You don't need it, but it will come in handy.
- Before making the commitment for a year, do a lot of research.
- Even teaching English privately can be quite lucrative in Japan, with or without a bachelor's degree. In particular, there are many beginner or intermediate level adult learners looking for a few more English lessons to help them advance their careers. There are several businesses and websites that can connect you with these people. But make sure you meet them in bars or other public places.
Warnings
- Do not terminate the contract. The employer will hold you responsible for all damages caused to the company, economic or otherwise.
- Do not commit crimes in Italy. With a criminal past, you can't get a residence permit.
- Depending on the business, they may require you to sell something to students. It's an integral part of the job, and you have to do it. Prepare yourself mentally for this.
- In recent years, some English schools have gone bankrupt. This could happen to yours too. However, this does not cancel the work residence permit. You can still look for another job in Japan, and just residing in the country with a valid residence permit is a huge advantage for employers.
- Don't lie on the resume. For example, if you write that you can speak Japanese well, they might send you to a school with local staff who don't even know a word of English. You just have to tell the truth. Don't be ashamed of what you don't know.
- Never commit a crime in Japan or keep yourself in the country after your residence permit expires. You will be arrested and deported. You will harm the school and be held responsible.
- In Japan, working without a valid residence permit is a crime, whatever the job. If you want to work, try to obtain a work or marital residence permit (you can have it if you are married to a person of Japanese citizenship). Remember that work permits have restrictions on what kind of work you can legally do. If you have a permit as a computer specialist, you cannot by law teach English. Breaking the law will result in imprisonment and, subsequently, deportation. Teaching as a freelancer can be rewarding too, but you need to stick to the rules.
