Have you ever felt that the world became a little brighter after a successful lesson? For me, teaching English has always been about that feeling — connection, growth, and real impact. Today, let’s talk honestly and without clichés about how to start a teaching career, what qualifications you need, how TEFL and TESOL certificates help, and where to find jobs if you want to teach online or abroad.
My name is York Fern, and I’m an English teacher and course designer. My start wasn’t perfect: I had strong English skills but no portfolio and a plain resume. I asked myself, “What would convince an employer that I’m ready to teach?” The answer was simple — structured experience confirmed by a TEFL/TESOL certificate and a few solid demo lessons.
Back then, my internal dialogue went something like this: “York, what about teaching experience?” “We’ll build it — I’ll start with a few volunteer lessons and mentorship, then move on to paid students.” Okay, progress. What’s next?
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TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language, and TESOL means Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. In practice, both are international programs that develop modern teaching methodology and confirm your qualification as an English teacher. These certificates help English teachers stand out in job applications and secure higher-paying lessons faster. Employers appreciate transparency — accreditation, course hours, and measurable outcomes are all clearly stated.
Practical tip: first, evaluate your English level and your goal — online school, private tutoring, or relocation. Choose your course type and pace accordingly. Programs with personal tutor support often include help with your resume and job search — that speeds up your career launch 🚀.
When schools asked, “Do you have teaching experience?”, I answered with facts. First — demonstrate methodology: lesson goal, short warm-up, clear explanation, practice, and feedback. Second — student testimonials. Third — a short story about how I improved my teaching gaps. That combination eliminated doubts.
There are two directions: online and offline. Online teaching offers flexibility and freedom; offline teaching gives teamwork, structure, and stability. Either way, employers value consistency — a certificate, a clear portfolio, and readiness for a trial lesson.
What should you write in your application? One specific reason why you’re the right fit: “I have a C1 English level, a new TESOL certificate, and three success stories showing my students’ improvement in speaking skills.” Add your demo link. Be clear and concise.
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Yes, your language level matters — but modern employers also care about your teaching skills and soft skills. Can you explain concepts simply? Do you maintain lesson rhythm? Can you adapt activities for kids and adults? I practice what I call “short explanations”: 30 seconds — idea, example, comprehension check.
In my classroom, I always have a small hourglass and colorful markers — visual anchors help maintain focus and flow. Even the quiet click of the timer signals it’s time to switch tasks — and it works wonders for engagement.
I love online teaching for its flexibility. In the morning — corporate business English, in the afternoon — teens, in the evening — conversation clubs. Technically, it’s simple: stable internet, a headset, and good lighting. Essentially, it’s the same pedagogy, just through a screen.
From personal experience: once my power went out, so I continued from my phone with an audio exercise. The students laughed — but we still completed the topic. Flexibility always wins 😊.
Kids need play and routine. Adults need structure and clear goals: exams, work, relocation. The teaching method is similar, but the focus shifts. With kids, I use more movement and visuals; with adults, I include professional texts, discussions, and speaking sprints.
Mini-dialogue: “Can we skip homework?” — “Sure, if you can fit in 20 minutes of practice during your day.” Accountability is part of real progress.
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Money shouldn’t be a taboo topic. When starting, avoid underpricing your work: define your minimum rate and increase it with experience and feedback. Clarify payment terms, cancellation rules, and reporting structure. In offline jobs, review the school’s schedule and policies; in online settings, look for transparent payments and long-term cooperation.
| Format | Advantages | What to Check |
| Online school | Steady student flow, methodological support | Pay rate, workload, rescheduling policy |
| Private tutoring | Freedom, flexible schedule | Marketing, taxes, client stability |
| Offline center | Team, classroom equipment | Contract terms, schedule, corporate rules |
My rule of thumb: I keep a steady “hour range” and never take more than three intensive lessons in a row — both voice and attention need recovery time.
When people ask where to study, I answer: choose a program with accreditation, clear content, and job support. That’s what helps you move confidently from learning to earning.
I use a simple tracker: date — application — response — lesson — result. It shows progress and reduces anxiety. It’s also great data for learning how to present your value clearly.
An interview isn’t an exam — it’s a professional conversation. Answer briefly and confidently, showing both your knowledge of methodology and flexibility. Below are common questions and how to approach them.
They’ll also ask about teaching English online: your tools, internet setup, and discipline. Prepare your answers in short, structured phrases and stay calm. Smile — it’s audible 😊.
Your job application should sound like you — professional, clear, and human. Below are three short templates that you can easily adapt for English teacher jobs at schools or centers.
Formula for your Prole: student’s goal — your experience — proof — short invitation to connect. Skip clichés and slogans. Being authentic is your best strategy.
Mistakes are resources when you learn from them. Here are the most common ones I see among new teachers — and quick ways to avoid them.
Mini-dialogue: “York, what if a student is late?” — “First, set a rule: inform in advance. Then, solution: short warm-up to keep the flow.”
Before signing a contract, clarify the details: schedule, reporting, probation period, trial lesson payment, and rescheduling policy. For international positions, you may need translated diplomas, background checks, and document legalization. Always check deadlines and formats ahead of time.
Teaching evolves constantly. Yesterday was all about grammar; today it’s about communication and real-world skills. I highlight three key trends that make lessons stronger and are highly valued by employers.
After a few years, teaching turns into a structured system. Some want more lessons and income; others aim for methodology or teacher training.
In every role, one thing matters: maintaining lesson quality and genuine care for your students. “Teacher” is a proud title when it stands for skill and consistency.
My secret is simple: I keep a teaching journal. After every class, I write three short lines — what worked, what didn’t, and what to improve. Plus, once a week I join a teacher discussion circle. This habit keeps me growing without burnout.
In short, the path looks like this: improve your English skills, confirm your methodology through TEFL/TESOL certification, build your portfolio, and move forward step by step. Don’t compare yourself to “perfect teachers” — only to your past self.
Teaching English isn’t about perfection. It’s about steady progress, human connection, and the joy of helping others learn. That’s the true heart of this profession.
CLIL, TEFL, TESOL
An English instructor with 12+ years of experience. I work for an online school and travel the world, teaching students from various countries, leveraging my TEFL/TESOL certification. Seeing the world's oceans, mountains, and cities with my own eyes has given me a profound appreciation for the importance of quality education and international communication.
and start earning by teaching English in your country, abroad, or online from anywhere in the world! Order the course with a 50% discount 💸 and receive as a gift the support of a personal coach 👨🏫 and job placement assistant! 🎁🚀 Hurry, limited spots available! 🏃♂️💨
💡 Unlock the secrets to doubling your teaching income with our exclusive checklist! 🎯 This checklist is designed for English teachers who want to 📈 attract more students and 🔥 keep them engaged for the long term.
🚀 More students, 💰 higher income, 🌍 complete freedom! ✅ 112 verified platforms with top rates ⏳ Flexible schedule – work whenever and as much as you want 🎯 Simple requirements – start earning right away 💎 Boost your career and income by teaching students worldwide!
