ESL Teacher Interview

What to expect, and how to make an impression

Navigating The Interview

Landing an interview for a teaching role is an important step, and preparation is key to ensuring you make a positive impression. Think of it as your opportunity to show how your skills and personality align with the school’s needs.

Drawing from years of experience interviewing candidates, there are specific qualities schools seek, common questions to anticipate, and certain pitfalls to avoid. This guide will help you craft thoughtful answers, showcase your strengths, and navigate the interview process with confidence.

The Prep Work

Before your interview, take time to research the school and its approach to teaching. Familiarize yourself with their teaching methods, curriculum, and expectations. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you assess if the school aligns with your goals.

Remember, this is a big commitment—especially if you’re moving abroad—so clarity is crucial. Write down thoughtful questions about the role and work environment, and bring them to the interview. A well-prepared candidate always leaves a positive impression.

A Winning Self-Introduction Video

A self-introduction video is your chance to leave a memorable impression. This short video showcases your English fluency, teaching style, classroom presence, and voice clarity.

Prepare a script and rehearse to ensure you’re confident on camera. Adding a clip of yourself teaching—if possible—will highlight your skills further. Even if not required, a polished video is a great asset, especially for candidates with limited teaching experience. Best of all, it can be reused for multiple job applications.

Preparing for a WeChat Interview

For most teaching positions in China, interviews are conducted via WeChat, the go-to communication app in the country. Setting up and using WeChat will not only help you connect with potential employers but also give you a head start on familiarizing yourself with an essential tool for living and working in China.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Download and Set Up WeChat: Ensure your profile is professional and includes a clear, appropriate photo.

2. Test Your Equipment: Check your microphone, headphones, camera, and internet connection.

3. Confirm the Interview Details: Add the school’s WeChat ID well in advance and verify the meeting time, accounting for time zone differences. Tools like Time and Date can help.

4. Choose the Right Environment: Find a quiet, well-lit space where you won’t be interrupted. A professional and distraction-free setting is essential for making a positive impression.

5. Dress the Part: Treat this like an in-person interview and wear formal, professional attire to convey your seriousness about the role.

By using WeChat, you’ll be preparing for your interview while adapting to a key aspect of everyday life in China.

What to Expect

Interviews typically last 45–90 minutes and follow a three-part format:

1. Initial Questions: The interviewer may start with small talk before discussing your teaching experience, classroom management strategies, and views on teaching methods. If you’re new to teaching, they might focus on your TEFL certification.

2. Job Overview: You’ll learn details about the school, position, and the city where you’ll work.

3. Your Questions: This is your opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about the role, team, or school culture.

Common Interview Questions

For Experienced Teachers

Describe your previous teaching roles and training.
How do you handle difficult students or large class sizes?
Can you share a lesson plan or activity that worked well?
How do you teach grammar points like the present perfect?
What are your preferred teaching methods or materials?
How do you motivate students and manage classrooms effectively?

For Recent TEFL Graduates

What topics or skills did your TEFL course cover?
What challenges or successes did you experience during training?
Did you develop any teaching materials or receive notable feedback?
What areas do you aim to improve in as a teacher?

What Schools Look For in Teachers

Schools are less focused on formality and more interested in understanding if you’re a good fit for their team. They value candidates with genuine enthusiasm for teaching, particularly for roles involving young learners.

Key qualities include:

Passion and energy for engaging students.
A clear purpose for wanting to live and teach abroad.
Resilience to handle challenges professionally.
Flexibility, cultural awareness, and an open mind.

Demonstrate these traits to leave a strong impression during your interview.

Your Opportunity to Ask Questions

The interview is also your chance to evaluate if the school and position are the right fit for you. Prepare both teaching and lifestyle-related questions to ensure you understand the job, the environment, and life in the city.

Job and School Questions:

What does a typical workweek look like?
How are classes structured, and who are the students?
Are teaching resources and technology, like interactive whiteboards, available
What flexibility do teachers have in lesson planning?

Accommodation:

Is furnished housing provided, or do teachers arrange their own?
How close is the accommodation to the school?

Living in the City:

What is the expat community like?
Are there gyms, supermarkets, or entertainment nearby?
What is the cost of living, and are there items I should bring?

Asking thoughtful questions will demonstrate your interest and help you make an informed decision.

After the Interview

Expect to hear from the school within three business days, as they often aim to finalize hiring quickly. If offered a job, you’ll receive details via email, sometimes with a deadline for your response. Schools may send a sample contract or policy documents for review, but in China, it’s common to sign the actual contract upon arrival.

Some schools may ask you to sign a “Letter of Intent” as a preliminary agreement. This document confirms your acceptance of the job offer and intent to teach there.

For those interested in career progression, opportunities include senior teacher, Director of Studies (academic management), curriculum development, and teacher training roles. Many educators find fulfillment in exploring different countries and cultures as they advance in their teaching careers.

Embarking on Your Journey

Once you’ve accepted a job offer, your school will guide you through the visa application process, which typically takes 3 to 6 weeks. Once your visa is in hand, you can book your flight and prepare to start your adventure abroad.

For the interview, preparation and confidence are key. Use the opportunity to showcase your qualifications, enthusiasm, and personality. By asking thoughtful questions and presenting yourself well, you can secure the best possible position and begin an exciting new chapter in your teaching career.

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