All
Insider Stories
Living Abroad
News and Events
Professional Jobs
Study
Teaching Jobs
Teaching Resources
TEFL/TESOL
Travel

All

Entry restrictions for South Africans lifted.
by Jane
Covid and Quarantine updates (1/2)
Entry restrictions for South Africans lifted.

As of February 4th, the Korean government lifted all the entry restrictions for some countries, including South Africa. South African Nationals entering Korea with a long-term visa, will undergo the following process.   Submit a PCR test: Tested 48 hours before traveling. Domestic test: PCR Testing upon arrival. Quarantine: If you have accommodations, then you can quarantine in your residence for 7 days.   However, people traveling on a short-term visa will have to quarantine in a government facility at their own cost. Once you are in Korea, some of the main domestic measures are as follows, regardless of the vaccination status:   1. Compulsory facemask in indoor and outdoor public areas 2. Gatherings are limited to 6 people max. 3. Most facilities operate until 9:00 pm, including restaurants. 4. Any event has a limit of 50 people.  

Published Feb 8, 2022
Things to Know Before Moving to Korea
by Jane
The Korean Journey (1/1)
Things to Know Before Moving to Korea

Things to Know Before Moving to Korea   Known for K-Pop and K-Food, South Korea is a hub of bustling life. You can explore different parts of the Korean lifestyle. Recently, more and more expats have been moving to Korea, which means you won’t be alone. Living in Korea will be an exciting adventure and also broaden your perception of different cultures. Developed and modern, Korea has high living standards and a reasonable cost of living.   1. Language Even if you don’t speak Korean, you can survive in Korea. Many Koreans can understand English even if they don’t speak it. With the increasing number of foreigners visiting Korea, more and more Koreans have begun to learn foreign languages such as English, Chinese, and Japanese. Most of the signs (and menus) in Korea are in English, which means you can find your way around easily. Tourist sites also have guides that can speak English, so don’t hesitate to ask for help.   2. Safety South Korea is actually a very safe place to live with CCTV cameras everywhere and a no-gun policy implemented. Let’s say you go to a restaurant or cafe; you can leave your things at a table and not be afraid that your things will be stolen! At night, the streets are well-lit and you can find people in restaurants and pubs or strolling around town. Korea’s so safe, you can walk around outside after midnight without fear. I mean I go to convenient stores at 2 or 3 am when I can’t sleep.     3. Food I am pretty sure everyone knows Kimchi by now. Right? Kimchi is a side dish you will find in almost all the meals in Korea. While Korea offers a variety of meat, pork and chicken are the most popular. One of the most popular dishes in Korea is samgyupsal, which is grilled pork belly and is traditionally eaten with side dishes, lettuce, and rice. You may also know this dish as Korean-BBQ. There are a lot of restaurants with foreign cuisines as well. So, you won’t feel left out if you haven’t adapted to Korean food.    4. Public Transportation The small country of South Korea is connected by an intricate system of busses, subways, and trains. Seoul has some of the best transportation which makes traveling fast and efficient. Traveling from one place to another is also affordable, with subway fares starting at 1,250 KRW, which is around $1 USD Bus transportation is another efficient way to travel. With a variety of town busses, intercity busses, highway busses, and airport limousine busses, you can get around Korea easily. Korea also has dedicated bus-only lanes that allow you to get anywhere even during rush hour. If you’re traveling from Seoul to Busan at the other end of the peninsula, riding the bullet train only takes 2 hours and 15 minutes. Bullet trains are not only quiet but also comfortable and run often throughout the day. Korea’s public transportation is constantly expanding and improving with new subway lines expected to open over the next few years.   5. Shopping Korea is well-known for cosmetics and clothes. Almost every street corner has some type of beauty store which sells everything from skincare to snacks. Unfortunately, clothing in Korea is typically one-size-fits-all, but some stores do sell a variety of sizes, such as H&M and Zara. Shoes in larger sizes are hard to find, but you can find some online. Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Dongdaemun are some of the hot shopping locations and you can find clothes for around $10 USD. Underground shopping centers are also great places to find bargains for around $5 USD.   6. Lifestyle The Korean lifestyle is fast-paced and never slows down. The work culture in Korea is completely different compared to other countries. One of my favorite work cultures in Korea is the staff diners. (Hoesik), the tradition of eating and drinking after work is not uncommon and many workers eat and drink with their bosses and return home late. University students also enjoy drinking in the evenings, and if you live in a college town, you will see many hanging out in pubs and bars. Understanding the Korean culture will help you better understand the people. People make up a culture and you have a chance to learn a little about what it’s like to live in someone else’s shoes. As long as you’re open and positive, you will have the best adventure of your life in South Korea!  

Published Jan 20, 2022
Taxation and the 4 major insurances in Korea
by Derek
ESL Education (1/1)
Taxation and the 4 major insurances in Korea

Taxation and the 4 major insurances in Korea Income Tax Like any other country, taxes are generated if you have a source of income in Korea. Taxation may however differ depending on mutual government agreements.   Taxation eligibility Country Public school Hagwon United States Exemption for 2 years Taxed Canada Taxed Taxed United Kingdom Exemption for 2 years Taxed Ireland Taxed Taxed Australia Exemption for 2 years Taxed New Zealand Exemption for 2 years Taxed South Africa Exemption for 2 years Taxed The 4 major insurances. National Health Insurance: In Korea, employers must provide health and medical insurance. Health and medical insurance may cover medical, dental, or accidental coverage or a combination of the three. If health and medical insurance are covered, the employer may pay for all of it or the employer may pay half. Be sure to ask the employer if the insurance covers international hospitals as well as local hospitals. This is a mandatory subscription.   Employment Insurance: It is a national insurance system implemented for protecting workers’ rights and interests. National Pension Scheme: This insurance is created to prepare for the time one is not able to work. (pension after retirement).  It is also determined by mutual government agreements. Several countries require employers to pay into a pension, or retirement plan. In most cases, the employer pays half and the teacher pays the other half. Depending on a teacher’s citizenship and the agreement with the teacher’s home country, the pension can be claimed at the completion of the 1-year contract. Industrial Accident Insurance: Compensates the employees for any occupational accident.  This insurance option that provides both employees and their employers a certain level of financial protection in case of an injury incurred on the job. 4 major insurances Insurance Employee Employer National pension 4.5% 4.5% National Health insurance 3.545% 3.545% Employment insurance 0.9% 0.9% Industrial accident insuranc N/A Matched by employer   Eligibility on national pension  Country  Membership Subscription  Refundable Payment United States Yes Lump-sum return Canada Yes Lump-sum return United Kingdom Yes Non-refundable Ireland Yes Non-refundable/added to native country pension Australia Yes Lump-sum return New Zealand Yes Non-refundable South Africa No N/A      

Published Jan 20, 2022
ESL teachers' most common interview questions.
by Jane
Recruitment process (1/3)
ESL teachers' most common interview questions.

ESL teachers' most common interview questions. This interview usually has three parts, basic, career, and in-depth educational questions. While teaching English to other language speakers, you interact with a diverse range of students. This interview allows you to talk about your unique teaching techniques which you think are useful to students. The interviewer is also able to evaluate if you are suitable for their students. ESL Interviews are conducted on skype or zoom. If needed, in-person interviews are conducted for instructors already residing in Korea. (Covid-19 terms and conditions apply) Here are some of the commonly asked questions.    Employer to Instructor   Basic questions Career questions In-depth educational questions    -Tell me a little about yourself -What do you like about being a teacher? -What are your strengths and weaknesses?  -Why Korea? Is there a specific reason you want to teach in Korea?  -What interests you about our school? -What do you like to do when you are not working? -What qualities do you have that will help you teach at our school?  -What are your teaching techniques? -How would you motivate students? -How do you handle demanding parents? -What are your professional goals? -Do you have a mentor o someone you look up to? -How do you relieve your stress? -How do you handle negative responses from students? -What do you think are the advantages of knowing a different language? -What are our expectations for living and working in Korea? -What are your salary expectations?   -How would your past colleagues describe your teaching methodology? -Why did you choose ESL education? -What kind of students do you think you could work with the most efficiently? -Have you ever taught in another non-native country? -What do you consider as your biggest teaching achievement? -What aspects of your teaching have changed with experience? -Which other languages are you fluent in apart from English?  -Where do you see yourself in 5/10 years?   -It can be challenging learning a new curriculum in a new country, how will you adapt and cope with these changes? -How would your approach with a 1:1 student differ from that of a group? -How would you go about establishing the needs and objectives of a student? -How do you think you can manage a class with students who don’t speak English well or at all?  -Give an example of your most challenging student and how you handled the situation. -What factors would you consider in lesson planning? (e.g., topic, level of students, strengths of students -How is teaching online different from teaching in a classroom? -Have you ever been in a situation where students question stumped you? How did you handle that? -How do you feel about having another teacher in class while teaching? -Would you be comfortable in performing additional day duties like substituting? -Have you ever had an in-class emergency? How did you respond to that? -What do you believe is the hardest thing to teach? -How would you rate your ESL lesson planning abilities? -Have you ever disagreed with the higher management? Explain  -How technology efficient are you? -What do you do to ensure you are understood in class?   Instructor to Employer    -What kind of resources are available to help in lesson planning? -Are there senior members/mentors to guide new teachers? -Apart from teaching, are there any additional duties I might have? -How many English levels are there in your school? -Is there any procedure for students to move up or down a level? -If there is no set curriculum, what kind of teaching preparation is expected? -Is class preparation part of the working hours or not? -Are there any professional development or internal growth opportunities? -What is a typical day like for a teacher in your institute? -How is the culture between teachers at the school?  -Are there opportunities for professional and social interaction among colleagues?  -What types of technology do you have/use in your classrooms? -What type of anti-bullying measures are you taking at your school? -What are some of the inevitable challenges one is expected to face at your school?  

Published Jan 20, 2022
How to film Self-Introduction Videos
by Jane
Recruitment process (1/3)
How to film Self-Introduction Videos

How to film Self-Introduction Videos   While filming a short intro video may seem time-consuming, if you follow this guide closely, this video should help schools want to hire you. The first impression is the most important! Therefore, your video is a crucial part of getting hired in Korea. The introduction video should be around 2~3 minutes long and must be submitted as a link or as a .wav, .mp4, or .mov file.   Setting Up Your Appearance  Keep things professional in business casual clothing with no visible tattoos or facial piercings and make sure your hair is neat and uncovered.   Video Presentation  Shoot your video in front of a neutral background (like a wall or bookshelf) and stabilize your camera (or phone) in a safe place 2-3 feet (60 cm) away from you. Do not hold your phone. Make sure that there’s enough lighting to clearly see your face and that the mic can pick up your voice clearly. Try to film the video in ONE take. Speaking  Look directly into the camera and practice what you’d like to say before shooting to make sure you meet the video time requirements. Do not read from a piece of paper! Speak loudly, clearly, and confidently. Be animated and speak enthusiastically in a friendly way.  Caution: Try not to use “um” or “ah” when speaking and don’t speak too formally.   Putting it All Together When reviewing applicant videos, school directors focus on how you present yourself. Smiling and acting energetic will help them picture you working with their students and increase your chances of being hired.   What to Talk About As you are applying for an English teaching position, directors want to hear what you sound like in English. 1. Introduce yourself, including your background and education  2. Why you want to be an English teacher in Korea  3. Why you’d make a great teacher  4. Your experience teaching, tutoring, and/or experience with children        Note: If you don’t have any experience with teaching, talk about the work experience you do have and how those skills apply to teaching. Do not start out by saying, “I do not have teaching experience . . .”  5. An interesting fact about yourself that makes you stand out.   My Checklist The video is stabilized and not shaky My face can be seen well and the lighting is good I am smiling and speaking clearly without many “ums” or “ahs” I am speaking at a good pace; not too fast or too slow The audio is clear and in sync with the video Unless specified the video should be at least 2~3 minutes long.  

Published Jan 20, 2022
An ESL interview guide
by Jane
Recruitment process (1/3)
An ESL interview guide

ESL self-introduction Video submission Nowadays, when you apply to a language company, you may be asked to introduce yourself through a self-recorded video. This recording, which usually runs for not more than two minutes, is a quicker way of showcasing your qualifications, skills, and even your personality to your potential employer. These videos help you stand out among a multitude of teacher applications. Take note that some companies will not require an intro video from you during the application process. However, you may still need to make one for your teacher profile when you begin teaching.   Why is an introduction video important? It makes it possible for recruiters and students to know a new teacher in person before the beginning of a course. With this, the most effective and quickest way to give an idea of who you are and how you teach is through an intro video. When it comes to screening applicants, an intro video is a real-time saver. Instead of conducting interviews, many companies these days simply review candidates’ intro videos. This, in turn, hastens the hiring process and could get you started teaching sooner. Meanwhile, an intro video is a great way to spark the intrigue of your future students or their parents and make them feel connected with you, whether it's for your class activities, your fun teaching background, or even just your amazing personality! It is also through the intro video that you can give a good first impression without pressure (absence of the interviewer). The employers can also check your English proficiency like pronunciations.    

Published Jan 20, 2022
A professional resignation
by Derek
Recruitment Process (1/5)
A professional resignation

A professional resignation A resignation can either be through the expiration of an employment contract or mid-contract termination. If you would like to move to another institute, you NEED to share and communicate about it in advance due to any problems that may arise after your resignation. An unprofessional resignation will affect the reference process and negatively impact your future careers.   1. A reasonable resignation notice. A sudden resignation notice has an immense impact on the company and co-workers. Employees must set the resignation date early in advance and notify the company. Employees should first express their intentions to the employer and discuss the resignation schedule. The employee should complete the hand-over process faithfully. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind during this process: Disclosure of transfer institute: When expressing your intentions to resign, it is recommended you only give general reasons without mentioning the specific details or the transferring institute. Disclosing such detailed information is not desirable for future working relationships. Company complaints:  When expressing your intentions to resign, it is not ideal to mention complaints or negative evaluations about the company. If your performance and abilities have been acceptable and satisfactory, you can instead make counter-offers such as salary increases or promotions. However, if the employer still insists on a specific reason for resignation, it’s good to be creative and safe about it. Mention things like a ‘slight career change’.   2. Completion of duty until resignation After the confirmation of resignation, discuss with your employer in detail the hand-over procedure documents to be organized, any necessary paperwork, and the deadline schedule. Sometimes helping the company find and interview your replacement makes the transition process smoother. All of this will positively influence your reputation after your resignation.   3. Letter of recommendation You should consider asking for a recommendation letter from your employer or colleagues before leaving the company. All hiring processes include a reference check, and a positive recommendation will differentiate you and act as a competitive edge in the hiring market. It will help you get the jobs you want.     4. Final greetings to colleagues and employer.  Express your gratitude for the opportunities and experience with a polite in-person visit to your co-workers and employer. If the in-person visit is not possible, a text message or email will suffice.

Published Jan 20, 2022
An ESL Teachers' Guide to Contracts
by Derek
Recruitment Process (1/5)
An ESL Teachers' Guide to Contracts

An ESL Teacher’s Guide to Contracts  Contracts in Korea are very important as they are viewed as an agreement to build a working relationship between the employer and employee. As time goes by, the contents of the contract might change depending on the progress of the employee. It is also the only legally binding document as a verbal agreement is NOT guaranteed. The content of a contract might vary depending on the terms and conditions of the company, but there is some important information that applicants should make sure are stated clearly.   Dates of Employment The contract should clearly state the start and end dates. The typical contract length is usually 12 months, but there are also contracts starting at 3 months. Working Hours Daily and weekly working hours should be included and some contracts also specify teaching and office hours. Overtime Pay The contract should define what is included in ‘overtime’ and the hourly rate per teaching hour.  If you agree to work overtime, you may want to get a statement in writing. Salary The monthly gross salary should be specified and in the currency that it will be paid. The contract should also state the day the teacher will be paid regularly each month. Income Tax The contract should include the taxes and the tax rates that the teacher is expected to pay. In some countries, the taxes are split between the teacher and the employer. Teachers should stay up to date with the tax regulations in their own home countries and remember to file taxes accordingly. Vacation, Holidays, and Sick Days Make sure the vacation days and holidays are listed and be sure to research the national holiday entitlement for that country. While most employers have set vacation times, some employers allow teachers to choose their own vacations. (National holidays do not qualify as vacation days, and each country has different policies on how many vacation days must be allotted.) Unfortunately, not all contracts include sick days. If sick days are not allotted, ask what may be done when a teacher is feeling too sick to work. Airfare If airfare is offered, make sure that it is listed in the contract. The employer may purchase a ticket for the teacher or the teacher may be reimbursed later, with the latter being more common. For reimbursements, check when the ticket will be reimbursed, the currency, and whether the monetary value stated is before or after tax. Accommodation or a Housing Stipend If accommodation or a housing stipend is allotted, it should be included in the contract. The employer may choose to provide housing or money for rent. Ask about maintenance fees and utilities. The housing stipend should specify the currency and whether it is after or before tax and whether the teacher will need to pay a housing deposit. The contract should also state when and how the teacher may expect to receive the stipend monthly. The housing stipend should not be included in the base salary. If a housing stipend is given, ask the employer to help find safe accommodation. Housing in Korea Health and Medical Insurance In certain countries, employers must provide health and medical insurance. Health and medical insurance may cover medical, dental, or accidental coverage or a combination of the three. If health and medical insurance are covered, the employer may pay for all of it or the employer may pay half. Be sure to ask the employer if the insurance covers international hospitals as well as local hospitals. Bonus pay If a bonus is offered, the contract should state the monetary amount and how it will be calculated upon the completion of the teacher’s work contract. Some countries must legally pay a bonus for a certain amount of time worked and must be calculated according to the law. Pension and Retirement Plans Several countries require employers to pay into a pension, or retirement plan. In most cases, the employer pays half and the teacher pays the other half. Depending on a teacher’s citizenship and the agreement with the teacher’s home country, the pension can be claimed at the completion of the contract. In some cases where a teacher’s home country and work country do not have an agreement regarding pension and retirement plans, teachers can simply receive the money that was set aside in their monthly salary. Contract Termination Should an employer or an employee wish to terminate a contract, the expectations for what happens after termination must be written in the contract. On the employer’s side, legitimate reasons for possible termination should be specified. Other clauses may be added in a contract and may include the following: Preparation Time/ Teacher Training A teacher should have allotted preparation time to adequately prepare for classes. If teachers are offered training, the contract should specify the period of training and whether it will be paid or unpaid.  Duties and Responsibilities Daily duties and responsibilities help teachers understand the daily grind and what is expected.

Published Jan 20, 2022
ESL teachers reference check
by Derek
Recruitment Process (1/5)
ESL teachers reference check

What is a reference check? A reference check is a process of verifying and confirming an applicant’s information with their employers and co-workers.  It is an essential procedure and is conducted to make sure that there is no wrong information provided about the applicant’s job performance at their previous jobs. Interviewers are therefore prepared and ready with questions to ask previous employers. Reasons for English Instructors’ reference check There are 3 main reasons why employers or recruiters conduct a reference for English teachers.  1. Teacher-school relationship: Whether the teacher complied well with the institute’s rules and regulations.   2. Teacher-student relationship: Whether the teacher was kind to students and passionate about teaching.  3. Teacher-faculty relationship: Whether the teacher had a healthy and friendly relationship with colleagues.   Who to contact for a reference check? Most reference checks are conducted through previous employers or colleagues. However, in the case of non-experienced applicants, it can be done through their university’s professor or their peers.   For a fast and smooth hiring process, applicants can ask employers or colleagues to prepare a reference letter in advance and attach it with the application documents.   Information required for reference check Most reference checks are usually conducted over the phone or by email. Applicants should therefore, provide the following information to either the employers or recruiters.    Previous job(s) Address(es) Employer’s name Position Contact information Reference check process 1. Period  It is conducted before the employer makes the final hiring decision or before a recruiter recommends a potential candidate.   2. Notice of reference check to the applicant The applicant will be notified that their employer or colleagues will be contacted for a reference check. Get their consent beforehand. 3. Adjust reference check schedule. Make and adjust a reference check schedule according to availability.      4. Conducting reference check They will focus on questions about the applicant’s competence and performance. It is essential when employers cross-check the interviews to make sure there were no exaggerations or false information provided.      Most frequently asked questions during a reference check. 1. Teacher-school relationship Confirm if the applicant worked at their institute during the stated period.   Ask about their role and responsibilities and how they handled them.   If they complied with the school’s rules and regulations? e.g., commuting time    If they would work with the applicant again in the future? 2. Teacher-student relationship If the applicant’s teaching methods fit the (current) students.   If the students respect and follow as instructed.  What type of students would be compatible with the teacher if they were to change schools?  3. Teacher-faculty relationship: If the applicant had/have any conflicts or disagreements with co-workers. If the applicant had/have good communications with the employer  

Published Jan 20, 2022
ESL teachers reason to work with a recruiter.
by Derek
Recruitment Process (1/5)
ESL teachers reason to work with a recruiter.

ESL teachers’ reason to work with a recruiter.     Job searching can be very tedious and time-consuming when doing it alone. Working with a recruiter has more advantages for you in terms of workload opportunities here are some of the reasons you should work with a recruiter:  1. Common goal The recruiter has a common with the instructor and that is to find a job that is suitable and works hard to ensure that you are hired. 2. Variety of opportunities Recently, most employers hire candidates in collaboration with recruiters. This process has proven to be more trusting and successful. Working with a recruiter exposes you to more opportunities than working alone.    3. Effortless and time-saving  It takes a lot of effort and time to find a job that suits you. Reading through all available positions and waiting for a call back can also be a long and boring process. It is the recruiter’s job to find and match you with a job that suits and meets your requirements.   4. Insights about the employer Since recruiters cooperate directly with the employer, they have a better insight into employer requirements. They are therefore able to emphasize the most relevant qualifications and abilities.      5. Confidentiality Working with a recruiter can reduce the risk of employers finding out resignation notice earlier than expected.  6. Professional advice Candidates can receive professional support with such things as resume writing, self-introductions,  and Interview preparations. In other words, recruiters can advise you on how to make a good first  Impression and express your abilities in a more persuasive way.   7. Future networking connection   Recruiters can follow up with the candidate throughout the employment period and in the future.   Even if you currently have a suitable position, recruiters can prepare for better opportunities in the future. Why choose WnP Match-up

Published Jan 20, 2022
ESL Recruitment and hiring process
by Derek
Recruitment Process (1/5)
ESL Recruitment and hiring process

ESL Recruitment and hiring process The hiring procedure and documents may differ depending on the institution. E.g., those of the general language academy and those of EPIK. We will focus on the general language academy recruitment and hiring process through a recruiter.   TIPs Even though there are delays in visa processing, restricted entry, quarantine requirements due to the recent high spread of covid-19 and closure of some government offices, recruiters will help you with document preparations and finding positions in time. 1. Choosing a recruiter As you have heard from your friends or online, Korea is the most competitive country in terms of culture, salary, living standards, and safety when compared to other Asian countries. So, if you choose to use a recruiter, you must find one that can help you get the position you want.  Recruiting agencies in Korea are operated under strict government permit policies. E.g., consultant qualifications, business permits, etc. Consultation fees are therefore paid by employers and services are 100% free for instructors.   Once your documents are ready or you have a timeline for your document preparations, you are then recommended to reach out to a recruiter.  Why choose WnP Match-up   2. Sending your resume and the recruiter interview Generally, instructors apply to jobs posted by recruiters, or the recruiters suggest suitable positions to them according to their preferences like location and teaching levels. The recruiter considers both the employer’s and instructors’ requirements before proposing the appropriate position to the instructor. At this point, consulting begins and it’s usually done through phone, emails, or video interviews.    TIPs 1. First, you must understand the position. Adjust your resume to be suitable for the position and submit it. If you send the same resume to many positions, you can get confused about what you want and you give the same information repeatedly to many recruiters.  2. Prepare for your interview with a recruiter by practicing potential questions. Also, prepare any questions you might have.  See interview questions sample 3. Position suggestions and recommendations to the employer After the interview, the recruiter re-suggests a specific position to the applicant. With the permission of the applicant, the recruiter sends their modified resume and application to the employer.    4. The employer interview While the recruiter interview prioritizes recommendations, the employer interview evaluates if you are a suitable teacher for their schools. Teachers should also seriously put into consideration whether the employer and the position are suitable for them while conducting the interview.  See interview questions sample   5. Applicant’s reference check If you have experience in Korea, most employers will conduct a reference check from your previous employer. However, if you do not have experience applicants can get recommendations from professors or friends. It is advised you prepare recommendation letters early in advance for faster and better results.  What is a Reference Check?   6. Negotiating conditions and signing employment contracts If the employer decides to offer the teacher it is sent to the applicant early in advance before signing. Applicants should check and request changes if required; such as salary, annual leave, etc. After agreeing to the terms, the signed contract is then sent back to the employer.      An ESL Teacher's Guide to Contracts   7. Visa application The applicant must first send all documents required for visa application to the employer. The employer obtains a visa issuance number from the immigration office in Korea. After receiving the visa issuance number, the applicant applies for a visa at the Korean embassy (or consulate) in their home country.  Visa application documents must be sent through shipping companies that issue tracking numbers e.g., DHL, FedEx, etc., and must be delivered as soon as possible.    8. Departure and arrival to Korea Most employers provide inbound tickets that are reimbursed soon after entry. After the applicant or employer confirms the flights and travel dates, then planning for arrival, airport pick-ups, e.t.c begins.    9. Health check-ups, foreigner registration cards, etc. After arrival, applicants will have a medical health check-up and register for a foreigner registration card. Applicants can then apply for other necessities like phone plans, bank accounts after receiving their foreign registration cards.   Foreigner registration process.   10. Community activity There are so many native instructors working in Korea. Most of them have created tight-knit communities in every region where they get together and explore Korea. Also, through travel agencies for native instructors, there are a variety of cultural experience packages and trips every season. All these benefits help you maintain a good social life in Korea. Check out coffee chat        

Published Jan 20, 2022
How to Write a Professional Summary
by Derek
An ESL guide to resume (1/3)
How to Write a Professional Summary

What is a professional summary? A professional summary is a quick overview of your qualifications, experience, and skills summed up into a few sentences. Most summaries are about 3-5 sentences long and usually placed at the top of a resume or online resume.  A professional summary is your first impression to employers and can help you land an interview. Anyone and everyone can benefit from a professional summary!   How do I get started?  First, choose your desired work industry and search for positions in that field. By comparing similar keywords and skills that are listed in different job posts, you can choose the ones that are the most common and add them to your professional summary. By adding these keywords, you will grab the attention of employers right away! Write your summary in a friendly, but professional tone. Employers are looking for candidates who can communicate well, so try not to use speech that is too formal or casual, such as slang. As always, be sure to proofread your summary for spelling and grammar.   Check out the tips below to write the best summary:   1. Fresh Graduates As you just graduated from university, start by highlighting your field of study and relatable coursework. If you have any internship or relatable work experience, be sure to highlight that as well. While a high GPA is important, most employers prefer to see relevant experience and skills.  If you’ve been involved in any clubs or led any activities or projects, be sure to briefly include these in your summary and mention any transferable skills that may be used in a professional setting. By outlining your career goals, you can help employers know if you would be a good fit for their company.   2. Entry-Level Job Seekers If you have around 1-3 years of experience, give an overview of your work experience and projects you have worked on. Don’t forget to include any awards or certifications you have received. In your summary, be sure to cover your professional growth and how you’re pursuing your career goals. Happen to have a portfolio for marketing or graphic design? Be sure to link it to your resume and mention it in your professional summary.   3. Experienced Professionals With 4-10 years or more of professional experience, list your business-related accomplishments. In your summary, add the accomplishments that relate to the industry you are applying for. Providing statistics and numbers of the goals you’ve reached will make your profile stand out to employers. A professional summary may not be able to cover everything, so be sure to include any other relevant information in a cover letter.   4. Career Changers Looking to change careers? It’s never too late! In your summary, state the experience that you have and how it transfers to the industry you’re looking to enter. Breaking into a new career is challenging, so taking some courses or getting a certification in that field will help you stand out to employers. This is something you should mention in your summary! Employers are always interested in candidates who take the initiative to learn something new. Also, be sure to give a little background into why you’re looking to change industries and your new career goals.   So, there you have it! A few tips and tricks to help you begin or continue your professional journey. Be sure to add your professional summary on your resume on TheWorknPlay to grab the attention of employers. You can create up to 10 different resumes, so you can create 10 different professional summaries. 

Published Jan 20, 2022