Are you thinking about teaching English as a second language abroad? We list 5 ways in which you can increase your chances of finding a great TEFL Job.

1. Get qualified by doing a TEFL course. TEFL Courses are NOT all the same. There are now hundreds of course providers and different types of courses meaning it has now become very confusing for prospective TEFL teachers. For the best paying TEFL jobs there are only 2 certificates worth considering: CELTA and Trinity TESOL. Make sure that your course provider’s TEFL courses are accredited by CELTA or Trinity TESOL. If you don’t your employment opportunities worldwide will be restricted. Language schools worldwide are raising their standards and getting a job just on the basis of being a native speaker is becoming more difficult. These courses cost between £700-£1300 ($1000-$1750). They take a minimum of 4 weeks to complete and include at least 6 hours observed teaching practice in the classroom with real students. If the course you are looking at doesn’t include these things it probably isn’t a CELTA or Trinity TESOL. The CELTA and Trinity TESOL courses are always going to be your best bet, giving you access to a greater number of better paying TEFL job opportunities worldwide.

2. Get some work experience in your home country before you apply for jobs abroad. In the UK for example there are many summer schools that need TEFL teachers for a short period of time and generally accept newly qualified teachers so long as they have a Trinity TESOL or CELTA certificate. If this is not possible you could always volunteer at a local high school or college. This experience will be very beneficial on your CV when applying for jobs abroad. It will also boost your confidence, and help your decide if teaching English abroad is right for you.

3. Take time writing your CV. Make sure you tailor it to your teaching experiences and your suitability as a teacher. Include a photo or even a link to a YouTube video of yourself. The more enthusiastic and approachable you appear the better your chances. Schools often expect at least a year long commitment from teachers, so highlight you are willing to do this. Don't forget to include the basic contact details such as email address and phone number.

4. Think carefully about where you would like to teach. Living abroad can vary massively from one country to the next. Some countries can be quite restrictive compared to the west. You don't want to bite off more than you can chew and end up with culture shock after two weeks. If your feeling less adventurous try somewhere close to home first, before for jetting off to more exotic locations. Read travel guides and online reports from teachers already our there, and be honest to yourself about what you can really cope with.

5. Look for TEFL jobs online. Make sure you do your research before applying to job ads. Find out more about the school by looking at their website, and by asking for advice for other teachers on online forums. There are unscrupulous employers out there so it pays to do your research.

Best of luck!