How to prepare for an ALT job interview

So, you’ve decided to become an ALT and work in Japan. You’ve secured your first job interview and now you have to prepare for it. Here are some tips and advice on how impress your future employer and get that job you’ve been dreaming about.

What to prepare

First off, you need to prepare all of the necessary documents. Different companies may have different required documents, so it’s best to check on the company’s website beforehand. Here are a few documents that are generally required at all companies: passport, residence card, diploma, teaching licenses or certificates (if available) and your resume.

What to wear

When going to a job interview, it is best to wear a suit and tie for men, and business attire for women. Facial hair should be neatly trimmed or clean shaven and tattoos, piercings and other accessories should be covered or left at home.

Questions you should prepare for

There is no way to know exactly what will be asked at your interview but here are a few that will most likely come up:

1. Questions regarding you and your goals

• Why do you want to be an ALT?

• What are your hobbies?

• What do you like about Japanese culture?

• What are your goals for your time in japan?

 

2. Questions related to teaching and education

• What do you think an ALT’s responsibilities are?

• How will you deal with problem-students?

• How will you entertain and support students?

• Do you have any experience teaching children?

• Would you prefer working in an elementary school or junior high school?

 

3. Questions about living in japan

• How long do you picture yourself staying japan?

• Do you have any food allergies?

• How long are you willing to commute?

• Do you prefer living in urban or rural areas?

 

4. Questions in Japanese

Most interviews for an ALT position will have a short Japanese Q&A section. If you don’t speak any Japanese, my only advice would be to try your best. Study up on some common words and phrases before the interview and just be honest about your ability.

Please do not worry if you don’t speak Japanese. Many ALT positions do not require Japanese!

It’s more of a way to help the company decide what school you would best fit into.

For example: Someone with little or no Japanese ability may be placed in a school where there are more English – speaking teachers present.

Someone with a higher ability may be placed in a school where Japanese is essential for communication with the staff.

Questions you should ask the ALT Company

The interview process is a good time to ask any questions you may have about the job. For example:

• What are the working hours?

• Where will I be placed ?

• What is the base salary and are there bonuses?

• Will I have to speak Japanese?

• When does the school year begin and end?

• Do I need to drive?

• Will you help me find an apt?

• Will you help me with the visa process?

Relocating to a new country can be exciting and fun, but it can also be overwhelming. Most ALT companies take this into account and are ready to provide you with the answers you will most likely want to ask, so don’t be shy.

What should I prepare for a ALT Demo lesson?

Most interviews will include a short demo lesson. This demo will give the company a chance to see you in action and help them make their final decision. Needless to say, the demo lesson can easily be the most nerve-racking portion of the interview process. Here are some things to remember:

1. Stay calm and be yourself

Speaking slowly and clearly is a vital part of being an ALT. If you speak too fast or stumble through sentences, that could be a big turn-off. Keep the volume of your voice in mind as well. Although the demo will most likely take place somewhere smaller than a classroom, the company wants to know if your voice will carry in a room full of 40 students.

2. Avoid using Japanese

The ALT demo lesson is not the time to show off your Japanese skill. Lots of schools have a zero-Japanese policy in lessons. Try to use English only.

3. Interaction

During your demo lesson, try to interact with the interviewers (students). If you’re doing some vocabulary drills, get everyone to repeat after you. If you’re writing on the whiteboard (avoid cursive), call on someone to help you read or spell something. The interviewers are looking for someone who can engage students and elicit answers.

4. Smile – This one is pretty obvious. Smile a lot, be warm and friendly. Praise the interviewers (students) who participate. Companies don’t want a robot speaking in a monotone voice and only smiling on occasion. They want a cheerful person who can make the students feel comfortable during a lesson.

I hope this short guide was helpful for all of you future ALTs. Just remember to have fun, smile and be yourself. Being an ALT in Japan is a fun and rewarding job. The experiences you will have will last a lifetime!

Author:  -E.P. Musashino ALT.

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