Don't jump at the first job offered. Take your time, ask questions and carefully compare job offers.

How many hours will I be working per month? Will I be paid overtime for additional hours worked?

Why consider this: Frequently language schools pay a monthly salary. Some jobs seem more attractive than others on the surface because they pay more per month. However, what really determines income is salary divided by hours worked, i.e. your hourly rate of pay. If you accept a job that pays $3000 per month but requires 40 teaching hours per week your hourly rate will be approximately $18.75. This is substantially lower than another offer that pays $2500 per month for 25 teaching hours per week which comes to $25 per hour.

This question ascertains the hours you will be expected to work for the offered salary and clarifies whether you will be paid additional income for any other hours the employer might give you per month after you start teaching.

Will I be paid for local public holidays?

Why consider this: If you don’t clarify this with your potential employer before signing your contract you might find yourself not working for several days or even weeks without pay while the school closes for a public holiday period. Case in point here is Chinese New Year celebrated in a lot of South East Asian countries.

Asking this question frequently leads your potential employer to offer you a monetary concession in your contract to compensate you while the school closes.

Will the employer require/keep a deposit of any kind or withhold any pay when I start working? How much is the deposit?

Why consider this: A significant number of schools may want to take a deposit or bond out of your first few months of salary as incentive for you to complete your contract, i.e. you get the money back upon contract completion.

Doing this is illegal in most countries and you have every right to inform the employer that it will be difficult for you to accept a position at this school if they take a deposit.

Will the employer reimburse for air travel (one way/roundtrip?) for working at the school for 1 year?

Why consider this: The school director, like most employers, will be trying to get your teaching services for the minimum cost to the school. Despite the big demand for the teachers overseas and the high level of competitiveness between schools to attract qualified teachers, your potential employer may offer you a contract with minimum benefits but be willing to concede more if you ask.

Our Job Placement Center will be able to tell you if air travel reimbursement is standard for a particular country.

Does the contract carry complicated and detailed restrictions?

Why consider this: This is a “red flag” pointing to conflicts at the school. Complicated restrictions are often a sign of a hostile working environment.

Does the contract include paid sick leave?

Why consider this: Its common in many overseas countries for employers to make provision for you when you are sick. Carefully consider whether you want to work for an employer who will not pay you when you are unable to teach.

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