First, I would like to say hello to all of the teachers meet...

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Created by Jim B. 4 replies

First, I would like to say hello to all of the teachers meeting at this site. I have over thirty years experience as a consultant, and Business English Teacher. During my life I have learned that the first rule of negotiations is to never pass the "breaking point" just for the sake of getting a job. If you think about it, there are more jobs than teachers. In fact, those who willingly accept low pay, high hours, and poor conditions, are cutting everyone´s throats. If you can´t reach a mutually satisfactory agreement, don´t accept the job. There is always another position right around the corner. If enough of us demand a contract that reflects the market, things WILL change.

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Greg K.

Hello Jim,
I agree entirely. What suggestions would you have for a new teacher? I have been a manager in manufacturing and logistics for the last 20 years and I have recently attained my cert3 in ESOL in cluding business English and I am looking for my first teaching job.

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declan s.

yes i agree in particular paying your own fare and spending money trying to get a visa from the embassy in particular Saudi also another sore point is shared housing

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George W.

Hi Jim,

To add to your point, it is my understanding that over 7,000 jobs teaching English go begging every year in China, yet many still accept substandard pay and living conditions.

George

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George W.

Greg,
I like teaching in China and I quickly learned from my students that everything and every price is flexible. This feature reflects makes room for the deep seated Chinese core concept of harmony. For example, if you are going to work for a university and get paid 5000 RMB a month, they may not be about to change that, but they can reduce the number of classes from 16 to 12 and put them on two consecutive days so that you have a 5 day week end. Generally, every point on the contract is up for conversation and they take no offense at that. Now the private schools are different, while they have complete flexibility, they are not likely to give it.
Last year I work with a couple of recruiters just for fun (I already had a job and other good offers in China) and I kept saying, ´well maybe, if you include.....´ No matter what I asked for they agreed and said they will put it in writing. You don´t know until you ask.
I try to add one thing in all such correspondence, go to coastal cities only, the coal fired industry inland has made the air toxic

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