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Things I Wish I Knew Before Teaching English in Japan

What are the dos and don’ts of teaching English in Japan? Teaching English in Japan can be a double-edged sword. It can be both rewarding and challenging. As an English teacher in Japan, you need to be aware of the cultural differences and expectations that may affect your teaching style, methods, and interactions. You should respect the Japanese culture, customs, etiquette, and language and avoid any behaviors that may offend or confuse your students, colleagues, or employers.

To help you with this, below are some of the dos and don’ts of teaching English in Japan that you should follow for a successful and enjoyable teaching career based on research and personal experience:

Dos of teaching English in Japan

Get a TEFL certification

A TEFL certification is a credential that proves your ability and knowledge to teach English as a foreign language. It is required for most teaching jobs in Japan, especially if you need a degree or experience. A TEFL certification can also help you improve your teaching skills, boost your confidence, and increase your employability. You can get a TEFL certification online or in person from various legit providers.

Use online job boards

Websites can help you to find teaching jobs in Japan that match your qualifications and interests. They often list a variety of positions, including full-time, part-time, and contract jobs. Some websites offer additional resources, like salary information, job search tips, and teacher reviews. They are a great way to find a teaching job that suits your preferences, goals, and qualifications. You can look for positions corresponding to your interests and credentials, such as teaching English to children, adults, or business professionals. Besides, you can filter the jobs by location, salary, benefits, requirements, or start date. Several online job boards can help you find a job in Japan, including ESL Authority’s Japan job page, GaijinPot, JobsinJapan, and Dave’s ESL Cafe. These online job boards offer a variety of jobs in Japan, so you’re sure to find something that’s a good fit for you.

Apply for specific programs or organizations

Specific programs or organizations recruit and place teachers in schools or institutions in Japan. They are a great way to find a teaching job that is reputable, reliable, and well-supported. They usually assist with the application process, visa sponsorship, flight reimbursement, accommodation arrangements, orientation training, and ongoing support. Some specific programs or organizations you can apply to are the JET Program, Interac, AEON, ECC, or NOVA.

Learn some Japanese

Learning Japanese can help you communicate better with your students, colleagues, and locals. It can also help you understand culture, customs, and etiquette. You can attend language lessons online or in a traditional classroom from various providers such as Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, Japan Online School, or Genki Japanese School. You can also use online platforms or websites such as Go Overseas, Go Abroad, Teach Away, ESL Authority, or Bridge to learn more about Japan’s culture, education system, language, and lifestyle.

Use teaching materials

Teaching materials can help you plan and deliver your lessons effectively. They can help you engage your students, meet their learning objectives, and assess their current level of proficiency.

Additionally, they can help you save time and energy in preparing your lessons. You can find teaching materials online or offline from various sources such as TEFL Hero, ESL Library, British Council, or Oxford University Press.

Access professional development

Accessing professional development can help you improve your teaching skills and knowledge. It can help you enhance your performance, advance your career, and increase your satisfaction. Moreover, it can help you network with other teachers and learn from their experiences. You can access professional development online or offline from various sources such as Coursera, Udemy, Cambridge Assessment English, or JALT.

Join social networks

Joining social networks can help you make friends, find support, and have fun. They can also help you cope with loneliness, homesickness, and culture shock. Join social networks online or offline from various sources such as Facebook, Meetup, Couchsurfing, Tokyo Gaijins, or search groups in your local community/ place.

Don’ts of Teaching English in Japan

Avoid becoming irritable in a discussion

The Japanese tend to avoid conflict at all costs. If you snap, you will immediately lose the argument and respect of your students, colleagues, or employers. Remember to be calm, polite, and respectful at all times.

Don’t refer to yourself with the honorific suffix “-san” or “-sensei

These are not for personal use. Referring to yourself with these suffixes is considered arrogant and rude. Instead, use your first name or nickname when introducing yourself or talking to others.

Don’t talk on the phone on public transport

It is best to keep your phone calls to a minimum while on public transportation. You will notice that most buses and train carriages in Japan are quiet. Please be considerate of others and refrain from making phone calls while on public transportation.

Don’t hug or kiss someone you meet for the first time

If you are in Japan, it is best to err on caution and avoid public displays of affection. So, it may be a good idea to hold off hugging new friends until they make the first move.

Don’t put a business card in your wallet or pocket in front of the person who gave it to you

In Japan, business cards are not just a way of exchanging contact information but also a way of building relationships. If you are in a meeting, keep the business card on display until the end of the conference. Then, store it in a cardholder or envelope. When you receive a business card, accept it with both hands and show that you are honored to receive it. Also, take the time to look at it carefully and remember the person’s name, title, and company. After you have received a business card, put it in a clean, dry place. Furthermore, you should never bend, crumple, or write on a business card.

Don’t wear shoes inside someone’s home or school

Wearing shoes inside the home is considered disrespectful and unhygienic in Japan. If you visit someone’s home or school, remove your shoes before entering and leave them facing the door. Wear the slippers provided by your host, or bring your pair.

Don’t eat or drink while walking

Eating while walking is considered impolite and sloppy in Japan. If you buy food or drink from a vending machine or convenience store, finish it before you leave the premises or find a bench to sit down.

Conclusion

Teaching English in Japan can be a wonderful experience that can enrich your personal and professional life. However, it can also be a challenging experience that requires awareness and respect for cultural differences and expectations. Follow the dos and don’ts of teaching English in Japan to help you have a successful and enjoyable teaching career. If you are ready to take on this adventure, don’t hesitate to start your teaching journey today!

I hope this article has helped you. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. Also, you can check our YouTube videos for, interview Q&A, job-related, inspirational, and motivational videos. Thanks for reading, and I’ll see you at the next one.