Three ways learning a language can help you prepare for life abroad
You don't need to speak another language to teach English, but it can certainly help in three ways. In this blog, we look at how learning a language can be of real benefit to you if you are seeking work in a country with a new language.
Benefit 1 - learning a language helps with culture adaptation
There is no better way to immerse yourself in the local culture and reap all the benefits of being in a foreign country than to pick up a little of the language and build the foundations of your experience before you go.
By learning the foundations of the language before you go, you’ll be able to communicate with the people you meet, and enjoy the everyday experience of life in the your new country.
The best way to find the hidden treasures of a culture and a country, those amazing beaches, breath-taking views and stunning experiences, is to talk to the native speakers in that country.
Today, apps like Babble, Duolingo and Memrise all have great functionality, and we encourage you to blend this in with your TEFL course learning, to help you stay motivated.
Benefit 2 - learning a language helps you secure work quickly
Learning the language will also help if you are trying to find work in the country itself. In many countries this is the fastest way to find work, providing you have the right to live and work there.
Apart from the obvious advantages of applying in this way, good schools (and bad) will often have a reputation locally allowing you the opportunity of doing the research before making a commitment.
Having some basic language to be able to introduce yourself, ask questions and give personal information will help you get an interview. Then you can let your ACTDEC accredited Global English TESOL qualification speak for you.
Benefit 3 - learning a language makes you more attractive to employers
If you can speak some of the language, then employers will feel more confident in giving you a wider range of classes. This is particularly the case if they have lots of younger learners or beginners, who may need some additional help with instructions in the L1 (native language).
This can help you with your lesson preparation, as being able to give a quick translation of a new word can save you a lot of verbal gymnastics!
When you are in the country itself and looking for work, then the British Council, International House schools or even or local embassy offices can help to point you in the right direction. You can even try local bookstores, or if you know of other teachers, word of mouth is a great way of finding out where the jobs are.
All Global English TESOL courses contain a module on The World of EFL and how to find work.
You can also check out our jobs board, which is free for life to Global English graduates.
Alternatively, contact us for 1-1 interview coaching, where we can help you land your ideal English teaching job.
Updated February 2023