Tips for Acing an ESL Job Interview at ESL Job Station

Published : 01 Mar 2021 | Author : ESL Job Station

An interview is the best way for schools to decide whether to hire you or not. Thus, it is very important for you to be thoroughly prepared prior to your interview.

Here are some practical tips for an ESL Job Interview. We hope it will help you get the job you want!

1.  Make sure that you have installed the app [e.g. skype, zoom, etc.] on your gadget or computer. Test your video, audio, and microphone prior to your interview.

2.  Prepare answers to the following questions:
  • Why do you want to work as an ESL teacher?
  • Why do you want to work in this country/location [e.g Korea]?
  • How will you treat students if they disturb your class?
  • What do you think is the most important quality a teacher should have in order to teach students effectively?
  • Have you ever taught English to children?
  • Introduce yourself within 2 minutes.
  • How will you deal with culture shock?
  • How do you adjust to unfamiliar or new situations?

3. You may be asked to do a mock lesson for the school.

4. Speaking Manner

  • Your voice must be bright. Try to speak cheerfully. Smile!!
  • Don't speak too loud or too low.
  • Try to speak in full sentences.
  • Schools like energetic and outgoing teachers.
  • Please show them that you are excited to teach their students.
  • Write down something important to remember.
  • You will be able to ask the interviewer later via email about what you did not understand.

5. Make a list of some questions (3-5 questions) you want to ask. Ask some questions from time to time, and it will make the interviewer feel that you are out-going and positive. You need to show interest in helping kids learn English. However, try not to ask a lot of questions. Otherwise, the interviewer may misunderstand that you are picky.

6. Others

  • Dress code: Please wear neat clothes thinking that the skype interview is just the same as an interview in person. If you wear a suit, it will be better. You'd better not wear a sleeveless T-shirt. Shave if you are a male teacher.
  • If you are a male teacher, please don't wear earrings or a necklace.
  • Don't show your tattoo if it is possible to conceal it.
  • Some employers simply want to know the applicant's height(cm) and weight (kg). Even if such a question makes you feel bad, please answer politely. If you think your extra weight may be a disadvantage, please say with a self-confident manner that you are healthy enough to carry out your job successfully.