Finding a job these days can be tough, especially for the inexperienced graduate. Every job advertisement seems to say “extensive experience required”, but how is anyone meant to gain the experience without that first break. Of course there are companies offering graduate schemes and there are those who are willing to take a chance but they definitely is not enough of those opportunities to go around, the degree of severity varying from country to country.
However, there is some hope, at least for the 300 million or so English native speakers scattered around the world. Native English speakers are the lucky ones, as one of their basic skills, one which they take for granted, is highly in demand in the global marketplace and there are not a lot of skills one can say that about.
English has become the international language of business, travel and tourism and general communication. To land a graduate level job in today´s globalised world, most must be able to communicate in English to a high level. It is invaluable in international trade negotiations in everything from national government down to small export deals. Therefore, in the vast majority of countries where English is not the mother language, people are eager to learn. National education authorities recognize it, the individuals themselves appreciate it and this, in turn, has created a worldwide demand for native English speakers who are willing to share their skill.
Therefore for all those native English speakers who can´t seem to get their first foot on the ladder, an opportunity is staring them in the face and could be the perfect fit. The chance to travel to faraway lands, meet new people and experience new cultures and way of life. And, most of all, get that highly regarded expatriate work experience, of which will receive a big tick by potential employers once they decide to return to their home country to pursue a new career.
It is very useful therefore and a compulsory requirement by all employers, to have a TEFL certification, which is the internationally recognized qualification for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. To gain such a qualification you must complete a course, either in the classroom or online. You can begin your adventure by completing the course on-location or you could stay in your native country. For example you could take a TEFL course in London, New York, Montreal or Melbourne…
Here are some of the types of opportunity available:
Teaching general English to children in a state school
Teaching general English to children or adults at a private language school
Teaching business English to adults at a private language school
You can teach one-to-one lessons, teach advanced level students or teach intensive language courses. There are so many different opportunities to choose from throughout Europe, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East, each ranging in pay and additional benefits.
So, for all of those native English speakers, remember that you have something in your armory which is in sought demand. In the struggling job market, you are the lucky ones…