Navigating the TEFL Job Hunt as a Teaching Couple in China

So, you and your partner are dreaming of a life-changing year teaching English in China. The idea is exciting, but the logistics of finding two jobs in the same city can feel daunting. How do you coordinate your job hunt to ensure you both end up in the same place, ready to build a home together abroad? It’s a common challenge, but with a smart strategy, it’s entirely achievable.

Start with a Unified Game Plan

Before you even begin applying, sit down together and get on the same page.

• Define Your “Must-Haves”: Which provinces or cities are you targeting? Are you drawn to the spicy cuisine of Sichuan or the dumpling-filled streets of Xi’an? Food is a fantastic motivator!
• Establish Your Deal-Breakers: How far apart are you willing to commute? Is a one-hour journey acceptable, or does it need to be a short bike ride?
• Research Cities: Focus on larger metropolitan areas or provincial capitals. Cities like Chengdu, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, or Qingdao have a high density of language centers, international schools, and public schools, increasing your odds significantly.

The Tandem Application Strategy

Tackling the job hunt as a team doesn’t mean you have to do everything at the same time. A phased approach often works best.

• Lead with the Stronger CV: If one of you has a more robust resume with teaching experience, have that person start applying first. Their profile may attract more immediate interest from higher-tier schools.
• Leverage the First Offer: Once one partner secures a solid job offer in a desirable city, the second partner can begin a targeted search in that specific location. This eliminates the guesswork and allows you to say, “I am relocating to [City] and am seeking a position.”

To Use an Agent or Not?

Recruitment agents are a major part of the TEFL landscape in China, and they can be a powerful tool for couples.

• The Power of a Combined Request: Contact agents and be upfront about your situation from the very beginning. State clearly that you are a teaching couple seeking positions in the same city.
• Find a Specialist: Some agents specialize in placing couples or multiple teachers. They have established relationships with schools that may have multiple openings.
• Do Your Due Diligence: Always research any agent or school you are connected with. Check online reviews and forums to ensure they have a good reputation.

Addressing the Experience Gap

It’s common for one partner to have more relevant experience. This doesn’t have to be a roadblock.

• Highlight Transferable Skills: Even with a standard Bachelor’s and TEFL, you can emphasize skills like adaptability, cross-cultural communication, patience, and enthusiasm.
• Consider Different School Tiers: The partner with more experience might land a job at a private training center or international school, while the other could find a great fit at a public school or kindergarten, which often have different requirements.
• Present a Unified Front: Frame your application as a package of stability. Schools value couples because they are often seen as more reliable and likely to complete their contracts, reducing turnover.

Final Tips for a Smooth Transition

• Be Patient and Flexible: The perfect scenario might not happen in week one. Be prepared to compromise on the exact district or the type of school if it means you can be together in your chosen city.
• Communicate Clearly with Employers: Once you are in serious talks with a school, politely mention your partner. Some larger chains may even have opportunities at neighboring branches.

With careful planning, open communication, and a bit of strategic searching, you and your partner can successfully navigate the TEFL job market and embark on your Chinese adventure together.