Securing an Online English Teaching Job as a Nigerian: A Comprehensive Guide

As a Nigerian with three years of experience in both online and offline teaching, and a TESOL certificate, you are well on your way to finding a fulfilling career in online English education. This guide aims to provide you with a detailed roadmap to secure your first online teaching position.

The Importance of Certification

While your experience and certificate are valuable, obtaining additional certifications can enhance your credibility and attractiveness to potential employers. Online platforms like Udemy offer specialized training and even provide a 1-month free trial. Beyond certification, consider the following tips:

Choose a Relevant Course: Enroll in a course that aligns with your teaching experience and allows you to showcase your skills. Sampling the Market: Research similar courses and see what you can learn from them to further refine your skills. Practice: Use the free trial period to practice and build your confidence before applying for jobs.

Exploring ESL Tutoring Platforms

Several ESL tutoring platforms are available for freelancers looking to start their online teaching career. Platforms such as Preply, Verbling, and iTutor provide a robust community for educators and learners. To get started, consider the following steps:

Create a Detailed Profile: Highlight your teaching experience and qualifications. Video Introduction: Prepare an engaging video that showcases your teaching style and personality. Prepare a Descriptive Bio: Write a detailed description of your experience and why you are a great fit for the platform.

Once you are approved by these platforms, you can leverage social media to attract new students and expand your reach.

Alternative Platforms for Teaching

For those who prefer alternative platforms, there are several options to explore. Consider the following sites:

EducationSwitch: Ideal for those with diverse skills and experience. Language Exchange: A community-based platform where you can teach English and learn another language. TeacherRecord: Focused on teaching based on your skills rather than native speaker status. Your teaching experience and TESOL certificate are your biggest advantages. Apply and give it a chance!

TeacherRecord is a unique platform that values your teaching experience over native speaker status. They are open to candidates from various backgrounds, as long as you have the necessary qualifications.

Peer Reviews and Testimonials

Before applying to any teaching gig, it’s crucial to gather positive peer reviews and testimonials from your past students. Feedback not only enhances your profile but also boosts your credibility.

Ask for Recommendations: Reach out to your current or previous colleagues and ask for a testimonial. Share Success Stories: Highlight success stories and improvements you have helped your students achieve. Engage in Forums: Participate in teaching forums and online communities to build a reputation as a competent and skilled teacher.

Additional Resources and Support

While you may not have specific online teaching experience, you have other valuable skills that can be leveraged:

Experience in Classroom Teaching: Highlight your ability to manage a classroom and maintain student engagement in a structured environment. ESL Resources: Share links to resources you have used or created, demonstrating your collaborative and resourceful nature. Connecting with the Community: Engage with the local teaching community and showcase your commitment to growth and development in the field.

Remember, online teaching requires continuous learning and adaptation. Embrace the challenges and use them as opportunities to grow and develop your skills further.