Like with any other job, you will have to interview for ESL teaching positions. However, there are a few key differences which we’ll cover to help you land that dream job overseas.

Types of ESL Interview

There are two different scenarios you’ll find yourself in when interviewing for ESL jobs:

Online: If you’re still at home and haven’t yet caught your flight overseas, then these interviews will most likely be conducted over Skype.

You’ll arrange a convenient time to discuss with the recruiter, and have a video call which often lasts around 15-20 minutes. 

For these interviews, you should make sure that your microphone, webcam, and lighting are all ok before the call. It’s also a good idea to make sure that you’re in a location that’s not too noisy, and that you won’t be disturbed or interrupted.

In person: If you’re already overseas, then it’s just as likely that the schools might ask you to stop by and interview in person.

With these interviews, you’ll need to take along a CV, any supporting documents/certificates and arrive at their given address on time and smartly-dressed.

Aside from these initial differences, whichever type of interview you’re facing, it doesn’t change much about what you need to prepare, and the skills you can use to persuade the recruiters that you’re the right person for the job.

This can often be challenging for new teachers, as you’ll be sitting an interview for a position which you have very little experience with. However, there’s no need to worry – getting through ESL interviews can be a breeze with a little bit of guidance.  In the next two lessons, we’ll be looking at what you can prepare for before your interview, and what you can do during your interview to make a good impression.