Since the onset of the financial crisis, and as a result of a lack of opportunities in the labor market, the number of British workers who move abroad in search of more favorable conditions has done nothing but increase.
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The Irish Times recently quoted a study carried out among British workers, examining their outlook on the future. The study found out that a quarter of British workers were willing to emigrate, if that meant that they would find employment that matched their skills. According to the study, one in three graduates and two in five postgraduates were willing to move abroad in search for a better job.
The teaching profession is one that lends itself to relocation, particularly with supply teacher agencies located all over the world. A large number of countries award additional points to qualified teachers looking to immigrate, so getting a job as a teacher is often a convenient route to greener pastures. In 2006, the UNESCO published a report that indicated that over the following ten years, countries around the world would look to recruit 18 million qualified teachers. Even international schools in Western European countries and North America suffer from a severe shortage of specialized teachers, especially in subjects like mathematics or science.
Being a qualified English teacher is also a good way of landing an overseas teaching post. The countries with the highest demand are China, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Brazil, and the Gulf countries. As you can probably imagine, life in these countries can be very different from what we are used to at home. So how can you prepare for your first overseas job?
Image courtesy of Skelekitten, Flickr
1- Do your research
Nowadays, it is easy to find information online on the living and working conditions of virtually every country. There are a number of specialised forums where teachers can discuss their experiences and receive advice from other professionals who are already in-country. Some of the most popular forums include Dave's ESL Café, Raoul's China Saloon, and Ajarn.
A word of caution though: take any negative comments found in these forums with a pinch of salt. Although it is always good to be aware of potential issues, remember that in the end, only your own first-hand experience will count.
2- Knowledge is power
Arriving for the first time in a new country can be overwhelming. Try to ease the transition by finding out as much as you can about the current state of affairs in your country of destination. You can set your Google News default settings to the country of your choice, so that you will be informed on the current goings-on of your new home.
3- Learn the language
If your overseas job is taking you to a country where English is not the first language, consider taking a few classes in the native language of your destination before you leave. While it is true that English is a universal language and you will almost always find someone who can help you, learning the language of the country where you will be living will help you make the most of your experience abroad. In fact, learning another language can make you more marketable when you return home.
4- Other considerations
Check if you require any vaccinations in order to move overseas. It is important to do this as soon as you can, since some vaccination courses are taken over a 6-month period. It is also a good idea to go for a general check-up before you leave.
Let your bank know that you will be living abroad for some time and make sure that they have your updated contact details.
Lastly, unlock your mobile phone so that it can be used in your country of destination upon arrival.
Your first overseas job will surely be a defining experience. Make sure that you are well prepared to face the joys and challenges of your new life, and you will be on your way to a successful career overseas.
About the Post
This article was created on behalf of World Class Teachers, the London supply teaching agency.
