I signed found a recruiter while in the United States which conected me with a rather large Taiwan English Language school. The contract promised reimbursal of airline ticket and a very good one year contract arrangement. Well, it been two weeks and I haven’t recieved by reimbursal. I was guarenteed 25 hours per wk but I’ve only taught two classes in the two weeks I’ve been here. The Academic Director criticized me fairly harshly after my first class which she didn’t even witness. She said some rather eye-opening things to a guy that just got there and expected a little more training in the style of their school. She hasn’t mentioned any more classes for me and I’m wondering…Is she waiting for me to quit? Maybe I’m paranoid but I can’t help wondering if I’m getting paid next month, considering how they seem to be dragging their feet about the airline reimbursal. Even if I am contracted for guarenteed hours…Can they still screw me. Let me know please I’m getting really bored.
Usually takes months to get anything out of a Taiwanese firm, give the reimbursal at least two months. Watch them tax it, as well. That’s another good trick. Point out to them that it is a non-taxable reimbursement for expenses incurred on behalf of the employer and that it’s in your contract. Worked for me.
Aren’t you on a probabtion period or something ? They like those - means they can fire you at a whim.
Start looking for better work the minute you arrive. Doesn’t mean you have to take it.
Thanks for clueing me in. I thought I smelled a rat.
Why In God’s name would a school pay for airfare when there are tons of foreigners available to teach.
I do believe you’ve found yourself a con, dear boy.
Better luck next time
CYA
Okami
Oh, well, guess we can’t all be as worldly and sophisticated as you, Captain Snarky.
If you want to be clued in read a few threads. The most common reply I’ve seen to a query like yours is “Welcome to Taiwan!”
Airline re-imbursements sometimes happen at end of contract.
Do you have experience teaching? Canadian Institute of English usually hold a course in Taipei each year. Very practical course!! www.cie.ca