How to Create the Perfect CV for International & Online TEFL Job Applications

28 January 2021 • Tips

Working as an English teacher abroad or online is a fantastic opportunity. The first step to a teaching job is a well presented CV that should reflect your abilities and achievements in a positive light.

When you apply for international and online TEFL jobs – or any other job, for that matter – your CV will be the first thing potential employers see. Therefore, a perfectly tailored and compelling CV that stands out from the pool of other resumes is essential!

Creating the perfect CV and what to include in it is a task that many people struggle with. If you are one of these people, don't worry because we are here to help you out!

We have prepared this simple and effective step-by-step guide to help you create a fantastic CV that will boost your chances of getting your dream TEFL job. Read on dear reader!

Step 1: Personal Information

Begin by mentioning your personal information right at the top of your CV. It is the very first thing that the employer will see, ensure that it is easily understandable and concise.

This section should include details like your name (in bold letters), contact information such as your phone number with your country code, e-mail address, citizenship/nationality, age. Don’t forget to double check your email address and contact number for typos!

Avoid mentioning "CV" as a header as the employer already knows what it is. Don't include insincere e-mail addresses as they make you look unprofessional.

Step 2: Education

Include all the relevant educational qualifications, certificates, degrees, other formal training programs, online training, if any.

Begin this section by listing your highest qualifications first, and then work your way down. Ensure to provide all the details about your institution/college, its location, your major, date of completion of the degrees listed, etc.

Also, do not forget to attribute and highlight your TEFL course and Certification, including the number of hours of training at or near the top of the education section of your CV.

Step 3. Skills

List down all the skills you possess in computers, education, foreign languages etc., knowledge of any specific software, such as Adobe Photoshop, HTML, and JAVA.

As you are going to teach English as a Second Language, it advised to mention the level of your fluency and your command of the English language, plus any classroom related experience, be that volunteer or formal.

Step 4: Work Experience

This section should encompass all the details of your previous jobs, positions held by you, job titles, employers, date of employment of each post you have held in the past few years. Just like in Education, you should mention your most recent job first and then work your way down.

Mention the name and location of every company you have worked with. Highlight all your accolades, accomplishments, and responsibilities within the role.

If you are a fresh graduate right out of college, there's no need to worry if you don't have work experience. In this case, you can include any internships, your experience of teaching in summer camps as an example, tutoring; you can also cite your volunteer work. Anything relevant is worth including here.

Step 5: Extracurricular Activities

This segment should contain all your hobbies and activities that you enjoy doing in your free time, bonus points if they include anything related to teaching like coaching, public service, mentoring in NGOs, etc. This delivers a good impression to potential employers and boosts your chance of scoring an interview.

Step 6: References

Citing references is optional but can be beneficial when applying for international jobs. It’s useful to list references for your previous employers / company or academic tutors who know you well. This will increase your credibility when applying for international or online TEFL jobs.

Try to invoke at least three references that you know well. Write their name, title, company, phone number, and email address.

Step 7: Additional Information for International and Online CVs

Along with the above-mentioned details, it is crucial to incorporate a few additional elements in your online CV.

• A professional photograph: ensure that it looks clear and formal. Don't stylize it too much as it is not for your social media. A clean and friendly headshot gives a good impression to potential employers.
   
• Teaching device: If you are applying for a position as an online English teacher, it is a good idea to provide all details of the teaching equipment you would be using.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – an easy step-by-step guide to creating a great CV for international and online TEFL jobs.

Start building your CV today by following these simple steps and achieve your dream of becoming a TEFL teacher.

Good luck!