Our resident working-in-Japan writer, James Winovich, answers your questions on everything from finding a job to networking to having more fun during school lunches and more. Got a question you’d like to ask James? Email it to editorial@gplusmedia.com.
Old School
Hi James,
I’m 45. I’ve been applying for a few weeks and haven’t gotten any bites. Can I teach English in Japan, or am I too old?
— Greying but Genki
Hey GbG,
In short, yes. Teachers over 40 get hired to teach in Japan all the time, but I would be lying if I said they get hired at the same frequency as fresh-faced 22-year-olds right out of college. That said, if you really want to teach in Japan, you can definitely make it happen.
Teachers over 40 get hired to teach in Japan all the time, but I would be lying if I said they get hired at the same frequency as fresh-faced 22-year-olds right out of college.
To ensure you are giving yourself your best shot at landing the all-important interview, there are a few things you can do (after asking yourself if you are truly ready to accept an entry-level position at the age of 45 of course):
1. Don’t mention your age
For some reason, MANY of the resumes I receive from older people start with something like, “While I know I am older than most applicants, I think…”
DON’T DO THIS.
Even though there is nothing inherently wrong with being older, a resume and cover letter should be all about showcasing your strengths. Age is exactly no one’s strength in the teaching game. Highlight your experience, your education, your special trainings, anything you think will make your resume more attractive to employers. Age doesn’t do that, so don’t mention it.
2. Shoot for non-ALT positions
For whatever reason, ALT companies seem to lean more towards youth than other teaching opportunities in Japan. While we could debate the validity of the reasons for this, you are trying to get a job so you don’t have time for that now. Focus your energies on Eikaiwa, university, or other adult learning opportunities for the best chances for success.
3. Be persistent
Some hiring managers put all resumes from people over 40 directly in the trash. Other more intelligent hiring managers realize that age doesn’t define the skill of a teacher and will actually look at the content of your resume before making a decision. Since you have to apply to both sorts of people, you will have to be twice as diligent as younger applicants as they will be given more leniency than you will.
In the end, if you really want to teach in Japan, the opportunities are there for you. Highlight the right things on your resume (experience and education), and focus your energy on applying to places that understand that age can be an asset. With enough persistence and with strong enough application materials, you can definitely get hired in Japan!
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Gaijinpot posts your age when you apply through their website. So “don’t mention your age” is asinine advice from your host site James.
Hi James
Thank you for this post.
Im probably not what they want at all beacuse Im quite old !! . However I am quiye sprightly and am very good at teaching English for advanced languages skills.
I have a medical degree – Im a semi retired hospital doctor from London.
Im happy to write a CV with all my qualifications on it…however I dont have the TOFL exam ….is this mandatory? As fat as my age is concerned….how do I get away with not writing it.
I m in my late 50s now!
A TOFL isn’t required, but the more certifications you have will help, especially if you don’t have a background in teaching English. Most schools in Japan will probably prefer younger teachers, but that isn’t always the case.
Hello, James! I came across your blog and enjoy the information that you provide here. I had the same question as some others asking whether they were too old to teach. I am a 59 year old female who is athletic (very energetic with no health or mental issues, mainly healthy eating only). No one would know my age if they saw me, thanks to both parents being the same way, I think reason being good genes. I have wanted to teach in Japan for a long time, have 3 degrees and a sharp mind. In your opinion, what is the best way to not only get an interview, but then also the job!? Thanks for reading my reply.