From Hesitation to Higher Pay: A TEFL Teacher’s Guide to Salary Negotiation

You’ve done the hard work. You’ve earned your certifications, gained valuable classroom experience abroad, and now you’re looking at a job offer. The contract is solid, but the salary is sitting at the lower end of the advertised range. A familiar wave of hesitation hits you. Is it okay to ask for more?

The short answer is: yes, absolutely.

For many in the TEFL world, negotiating salary feels uncomfortable. We’re often so excited by the opportunity to live and work in a new country that we accept the first offer. But remember, your skills and experience have tangible value.

Know Your Worth

Let’s break down a typical scenario. You see a job posting with a salary range of 2.5 to 3.0 million KRW. You receive an initial offer of 2.6 million.

• This is a starting point. Employers often lead with a figure that protects their budget, hoping for a quick acceptance.
• Your experience matters. Two years of teaching in countries like China and Vietnam is significant. You’ve already navigated cultural differences, classroom management, and curriculum delivery.
• Your CELTA is an asset. While some private academies may not differentiate, a CELTA represents a standardized, high level of pedagogical training. It signals you know how to teach effectively.

You are not a new teacher. You are a proven professional with international experience. This foundation gives you a legitimate reason to negotiate.

How to Frame the Ask

The key to successful negotiation is not making demands, but having a professional conversation focused on your value. Avoid saying, “I want more money.” Instead, frame it around your contributions.

Here’s a simple, effective approach:

1. Express Enthusiasm: Start positively.

   “Thank you so much for the offer. I am very excited about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to [School Name].”

2. State Your Case Calmly: Connect your experience directly to the value you bring.

   “Based on my two years of successful teaching experience in Asia and my CELTA certification, I was hoping we could discuss a starting salary of 2.8 million KRW.”

3. Reiterate Your Value: Briefly explain why this is justified. > “My background has equipped me to handle diverse classrooms and create engaging lesson plans from day one, which I believe will allow me to make an immediate positive impact.”

Prepare for the Response

The school might agree immediately, or they might counteroffer. Be prepared for either outcome.

• If they agree: Fantastic! You’ve just increased your earning potential.
• If they counteroffer: This is still a win. You’ve moved the number upward. For example, if they come back with 2.7 million, you have successfully negotiated a 100,000 KRW monthly raise.
• If they cannot budge on salary: The negotiation isn’t over. You can pivot to other benefits.
  • Ask for a higher flight allowance.
  • Request a larger housing stipend or better accommodation.
  • Negotiate for a contract completion bonus.
  • Inquire about professional development opportunities.

Remember, a “no” to your initial request is not a personal rejection. It’s a part of the business process. By negotiating, you have demonstrated professionalism and self-confidence—qualities every school values.

Taking this step can feel daunting, but it is a crucial skill for your career and financial well-being. You’ve earned the right to have the conversation. Go into it prepared, and you might be pleasantly surprised by the outcome.