Succeeding as a Non-Native English Teacher

Part 2 of our blog post series on Teaching English Abroad is succeeding as a non-native English teacher. But let’s identify who are considered non-native speakers.

English is the most spoken language in the world with over 1.26 billion speakers—378 million of them are native speakers, or those who come from English-speaking countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland. The remaining number of speakers come from countries where English is a primary language, like the Philippines, Nigeria, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago. Despite the fact that most official business is conducted in English, citizens of these countries are not considered native English speakers. Simply put, native speakers are considered those who have been speaking English since childhood and have passports from English-speaking countries.

Even as a non-native English speaker, you can still teach English abroad. In fact, there are several advantages to being a non-native English speaker. Keep reading to find out more!

What’s my competitive edge as a non-native ESL teacher?

You have insight as an English language learner

You may not have a passport from an English-speaking country, but your advantage as a non-native speaker is that you have language learning experience. Most native speakers are monolinguals who grew up only speaking English. Because of this, their language learning experience is different from that of non-native speakers. This gives you the upper hand when it comes to teaching English. How?

Having studied English yourself, you have been in your students’ shoes. The way you learned English can help you teach language concepts in a manner that learners will easily understand. The difficulties you encountered on your English language learning journey can also motivate students to keep pursuing their language goals.

You have an in-depth understanding of English grammar

ESL students learn extensive English grammar. I’ll let you in on a little secret: English is my second language, but I have a better grasp of English grammar than of my first language.

Only the best of the best qualify

In non-English speaking countries, it’s probably safe to say that everyone understands English. However, not everyone can teach it. Being a non-native English teacher shows that you have an above-average command of English.

What challenges can I expect as a non-native English teacher?

Despite having these advantages, you will probably still face challenges when it comes to teaching English abroad.

Preference toward native speakers

Not all English centers and schools prefer native speakers, but the majority of them do. In 2018, I tried looking for teaching job opportunities in Japan, but most employers favored native speakers. Ultimately, I stopped searching. Don’t get me wrong, though. It isn’t a totally hopeless cause. In fact, I have Filipino friends who are currently teaching in Japan. I just wasn’t patient enough to go through the countless job postings. You, being a non-native English speaker, will probably go through this, too. Be patient and continue applying until you get the English teaching position of your dreams.

Strict requirements

Earlier this year, I saw a teaching job posting for a university in Vietnam. No longer interested in teaching abroad, I scrolled passed it. However, my friend convinced me to apply for it, so I did. Whether I got the job or not, it was okay for me. Because of my credentials—an English language graduate from the top university in the Philippines, a TESOL certificate, and five years of experience in the ESL industry as a teacher and English resource writer—I got accepted!

Unfortunately, I encountered problems with my teaching certificate. The online tutorial company I worked for had a confusing certificate, which made it seem like I had been teaching for only two years (instead of three). Long story short, the issue was never resolved because the person from the university stopped replying. I don’t know if this happened because my document was deemed unacceptable or because the school year was cancelled due to the COVID-19 lockdown.

Different accent

One of the reasons employers prefer native speakers is because of their accents. Many of them, being monolinguals, have a very neutral accent. This is unlike a non-native speaker whose first language interferes with precise English pronunciation.

How can I compete with native English speakers?

In the battle between native and non-native English speakers, the former are always in the lead. But don’t lose hope! The following tips can help you be just as competitive as native speakers.

Take a language proficiency test

Not all employers require this because they are aware of the non-English speaking countries known for their excellent English. Having high IELTS or TOEFL results definitely boosts your credibility.

Gain international teaching experience

Although this is not required at all, but it can improve your chances of getting hired. The teaching experience you gained in your country is enough, but having teaching experience in another country makes a major difference. International teaching experience shows that you already know how to handle students from a different culture.

You may be thinking, How can I gain this experience when I’m trying to look for teaching opportunities abroad? It’s easy! One of the best things you can do is volunteer as an English teacher abroad! Usually, these volunteer opportunities last for three to six months. Once you have several months of actual teaching under your belt, you will be able to market yourself better and be more competitive for paid English teaching jobs.

Get proof of your teaching skills

Obtain a teaching certification. Most employers require certificates that prove that you’ve received proper training to teach English. Bonus: If you try the second tip and volunteer, you can even ask for letters of recommendation!

Practice a neutral accent

Your students must be able to understand what you’re saying. If you think your accent might become a hindrance, you should practice having a neutral accent. If you’re not sure where to start, check out the English videos on our YouTube channel and social media for pronunciation tips.

Be confident

This is perhaps the most important thing of all! If you lack self-confidence, you will most likely not get the job.

Takeaway

Native speakers have more English teaching opportunities than non-native speakers, but the latter can still compete with them. Patience and preparation are the two things that will help you as you start your journey.