The long, slow road to Korea

[jeanpaul_shabaz]

Well, after a lot of waiting and frustration, I've had some replies and I have some interviews. The school I'm most keen on has finally gotten back to me, and demands that I make a video answering the question, "Why would you make a great fit for this company?"

So... that's what I've gotta do. But I'm stuck on the approach to take.

Help?

Comments

[jen_the_great]

I think the approach would change depending on if the video was going to be evaluated by a Korean or a foreinger. Is it a demo lesson, or just a video job interview? Generally though:

Speak slowly, but not too slowly as to insult their English ability.

Enunciate carefully. Most schools favour North American broadcaster accents, so be sure to play to that. Be careful about slang, but try not to sound robotic.

Don't act too goofy. Kids want to be entertained, but adults actually want to learn English. The direct translation of "crazy" in Korean is something like "stupid fool" so don't fall into that category. At the same time, don't just sit and talk about yourself. They want a video for a reason.

Dress professionally. The dress code is often really lax when you actually get a job, but initially all schools appreciate a smartly dressed teacher.

Discrimination is so ingrained into Korean culture that it isn't even considered an issue. You want to look like you're in your mid-twenties. You want to look white. You want to look healthy.

Probably the number one quality that Koreans appreciate is reliability, and maybe loyalty.

Good luck. I might be biking by the area of your potential school tomorrow to pick up a travel wallet at homeplus. If I see it I'll let you know.