Once you have put in all the hard work and effort to obtain your TEFL Certificate, being rewarded with your first interview is a great achievement.

Interview preparation is essential and can make the difference between getting your desired teaching job or just ‘’any job’’. For some it is easy and for others it can be a daunting and nerve-wracking experience.

At English Access Gauteng, our TEFL trainer endeavours to put your mind at ease and will provide you with valuable tips, gained from her many years of experience in this field.

“It is vital that we arm our students with courage and confidence,” says Theresa Ohayon, TEFL Facilitator at English Access Gauteng. “We pride ourselves on preparing student teachers for their exciting new career, and successfully equipping them to make their dreams come true.”

“Choosing English Access Gauteng to do my TEFL course was one of the best decisions I have ever made. The content is relevant, the instructor is experienced and dedicated to helping students flourish. The practical lessons provided me with invaluable classroom experience.

“I sailed through an intense interview due to the fact that the trainer taught me and prepared me in advance.

“I would recommend this course to anyone who is seriously considering teaching English as a Foreign Language.”

Kitiwe (Class of 2018)

Herewith are 4 Tips for a successful Skype interview:

1. Be professional

Set up a professional email address, so employers can contact you with ease; and check it regularly so you don’t miss any important messages.

Make sure your voicemail message is clear, concise and confident, in case your new employer leaves a phone message.

Edit your social media profile and other pictures. You want to be taken seriously and look professional

2. Check the time and date of the interview

When setting up a Skype interview, don’t forget to take the time difference into account. Then a day or so before the actual interview send an email or message confirming the time and date. This is a professional courtesy – everyone’s time is valuable – but is also a very practical way of avoiding any problems.

3. Lights Camera

Prepare yourself for the Skype session. Find a quiet place with a neutral background where you won’t be interrupted.

Test your audio and video equipment before the interview and make sure it’s working properly.

Just as with any other job interview, your appearance tells a lot about you, so dress professionally, smile politely and make eye contact with the interviewer. Remember to speak slowly and clearly.

Look at the camera on your computer, not at the interviewer’s picture – and especially not at your own picture!

4. Do your research

Find out as much as you can beforehand about the country as well as the school where you’ll be working.

Prepare succinct, clear answers to typical interview questions such as:

• Tell me a little about yourself.
• Why do you want to teach in this country?
• What kind of teaching experience do you have?
• Have you ever lived abroad before?
• What do you think makes an effect EFL teacher?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• Do you have any questions? (Try to have at least one question to ask your interviewer to show your interest in this position.)