1. Easy visa requirements
Im sorry but Visas are a very racist thing. If you are not from an English only background speaking country, you are almost instantly disqualified. The reason for this is
the Japanese government, the Japanese Boards of Education (BOE) and Japanese Schools have an image of what a foreigner is, and this is generally an Anglo male from the following countries
The last three (of which I belong) are considered "regional" English and I have been discriminated against because of this in the past.
On visa forms the Japanese government shows its clear expectations of what a "true foreigner". A requirement for visas to teach English in public schools is 15 years of instruction in English. This is why the above countries have preference when employers decide on who to pick from Gaijinpot. Without a visa you can not work and the business can not run.
However, if you are in Japan and are not one of the members of the above list do not despair. Although the BOE may refuse you employment after lodging an application because you are not "foreign enough". Most employers will give you a chance if you already have a valid Japanese Visa.
the Japanese government, the Japanese Boards of Education (BOE) and Japanese Schools have an image of what a foreigner is, and this is generally an Anglo male from the following countries
- America
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- New Zealand
- South Africa
The last three (of which I belong) are considered "regional" English and I have been discriminated against because of this in the past.
On visa forms the Japanese government shows its clear expectations of what a "true foreigner". A requirement for visas to teach English in public schools is 15 years of instruction in English. This is why the above countries have preference when employers decide on who to pick from Gaijinpot. Without a visa you can not work and the business can not run.
However, if you are in Japan and are not one of the members of the above list do not despair. Although the BOE may refuse you employment after lodging an application because you are not "foreign enough". Most employers will give you a chance if you already have a valid Japanese Visa.
2. Education level
Lets face if, if you don't have a bachelor degree you are at a loss in Japan. I came on a working holiday without one and I couldn't understand why no one would employ me. The reason is this: You can not apply for a humanities or instructor visa without a bachelor degree.
No Visa = No employment
As for the type of degrees, profiles with a degree in an arts field with a teaching focus are almost always more attractive than ones without.
No Visa = No employment
As for the type of degrees, profiles with a degree in an arts field with a teaching focus are almost always more attractive than ones without.
3. Work Experience
I will be the last to admit that people on Gaijinpot are under skilled, there are many skilled and talented individuals submitting their profiles everyday. However, If your skills and experiences are not relevant to teaching they will generally be ignored. Choosing candidates is often a rushed business and without teaching experience your profile may be simply overlooked. As for how long is required, as a rule of thumb, I tend to Ignore anything less than 1 year (combined) of teaching experience. This means 1 year of employment teaching English in one or a number of different schools/ locations.
4. Certifications
This is simple, you either have them or you don't. If you have one of the following 3 you will be highly regarded by your employers.
- Teaching qualifications in your home country
- Celta
- TEFL/ TESOL
5. Japanese level
If you are not higher than conversational japanese you are unemployable in schools lower than Junior high school.
Summary Check list
- Are you from an English background speaking country / Or currently have a Japanese visa?
- Do you have a Bachelors degree (preferably in arts/ humanities)
- Do you have any teaching experience?
- Do you hold any teaching or relevant certifications?
- Being honest with yourself what is your speaking level? Can you hold a conversation in Japanese without the use of English
Your score: /5
Now you should be able to evaluate what chances you have finding a Job in Japan. If you are a 5 you will be snatched up by employers as soon as you post your resume's. If you are less than a 2 you will most likely be ignored. Well there you have it!
Good luck Job hunting!!
Good luck Job hunting!!