Navigating the English Teaching Interview in Japan

So, you’ve landed an interview for an English teaching position in Japan. Congratulations! The excitement is often mixed with a healthy dose of nervousness. What will they ask? How should you prepare? Let’s break down what you can generally expect and how to put your best foot forward.

The Interview Structure: More Than Just a Chat

Most teaching interviews follow a predictable pattern. They are designed to assess not just your qualifications, but your personality, professionalism, and teaching philosophy.

You can typically expect a mix of the following:

• Standard interview questions
• A potential grammar assessment
• A possible teaching demonstration

Being prepared for each component is the key to confidence.

Common Interview Questions to Anticipate

Interviewers want to understand your motivation and your approach to teaching. Be ready to answer questions that explore your character and adaptability.

Common questions include:

• Why do you want to teach in Japan? (Go beyond a love for anime or sushi!)
• How would you handle a classroom of complete beginners?
• Describe a challenging situation and how you resolved it.
• What does a good lesson look like to you?
• Where do you see yourself in a year?

Prepare thoughtful answers that highlight your flexibility, cultural sensitivity, and genuine interest in education.

The Grammar Test: How Heavy Is It?

Yes, many companies include a grammar component. Don’t panic! You don’t need to be a university professor, but you do need a solid grasp of the fundamentals.

The test often covers basics like:

• Verb tenses (past, present, future, continuous)
• Parts of speech (nouns, verbs, adjectives)
• Prepositions of place and time
• Common mistakes (e.g., its vs. it’s)

Brush up on the core rules. The goal is to prove you can confidently explain the “why” behind the language.

The Teaching Demo: Your Moment to Shine

This is your chance to show, not just tell. Even if it’s just a 5-minute mock lesson, it’s crucial.

Key tips for a successful demo:

• Keep it Simple: Choose a single, clear objective (e.g., teaching 3 vocabulary words, or the “be” verb).
• Be Energetic and Clear: Smile, speak slowly, and use positive body language.
• Engage Your \”Student\”: Ask simple concept-check questions (e.g., \”Is this a book?\” while holding a pen).
• Use Props or Visual Aids: A whiteboard, flashcards, or even simple hand gestures make a big difference.

Treat the interviewer as your student and demonstrate how you would make a lesson engaging and accessible.

Final Preparation Tips

Remember, the school is looking for a reliable, friendly, and professional individual who can connect with students.

• Dress professionally.
• Research the company and its teaching methodology.
• Prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer.
• Be yourself and let your passion for teaching and culture shine through.

With the right preparation, you can walk into that interview ready to impress and take the next exciting step in your teaching journey.