Congratulations on successfully completing your TEFL training! You have accomplished a significant achievement and are now poised for a fascinating adventure in teaching English as a foreign language.
As you prepare to embark on the application process, there is one key detail you must keep in mind before beginning: your photo for job applications. Even seemingly minor details like this one can have a dramatic impact on whether or not you secure a TEFL position; we will discuss in this comprehensive guide the importance of selecting an ideal photo when applying for TEFL jobs, answering frequently asked questions and offering strategies on making the best impression possible.
Selecting an image for your job application can be daunting, yet tempting. Your passport photo might tempt you, with its professional look and neutral expression; however, this should not be done as passport photos were designed to capture an unbiased view of your face with neutral expression that may not convey a friendly or approachable demeanor required by TEFL employers.
Your photograph could be your only chance to make a memorable first impression during an online interview, and therefore it's essential that it portrays both your personality and approachability - qualities which a passport photo may fail to capture.
Your attire for your job application photo can have an immense effect on how employers perceive you. Dressing appropriately can create a positive first impression and increase your chances of being considered for roles.
Dress professionally when applying for your TEFL job application photo! Schools seek teachers who present themselves in an appealing manner that reflects positively upon the institution. While dressing professionally doesn't necessitate wearing formal wear like suits or formal dresses, your attire should still convey seriousness and respect towards the position being applied for - for instance a button-down shirt and professional blouse may work just fine. Remember to show some enthusiasm through smiling!
Your photo can have an enormous effect on how potential employers perceive you, with blurry or poorly edited pictures creating an adverse first impression and even potentially costing you your job.
To ensure the highest-quality photo, avoid using a webcam or low-resolution camera. Instead, opt for high-quality cameras or smartphones and utilize natural lighting when taking photographs outdoors or near windows - they should be well lit without harsh shadows or streaking.
Before sending your photo, always review it on a computer screen to make sure its quality remains the same as on your phone. Sometimes photos look great when taken on the go but can appear blurry or pixelated when seen larger. Also save as a.jpg file so that its size allows it to be sent via email or uploaded online easily.
Once you have an appropriate photo, the next step should be including it in your job application. There are various methods for this; most commonly people include it by attaching the image directly to their CV/cover letter email or including it within their CV itself.
If you opt to include your photo on your CV, make sure that it is the appropriate size. A picture that's too large may be distracting and detract from what makes up its core elements; on the other hand, one that's too small could easily go unnoticed. In general, your photo should be displayed at either the center or corner.
Although it's essential to showcase your personality in your job application photo, certain types of shots should be avoided in order to make an impressionful statement about who you are - such as party shots or group pictures where shadows cast over your face may give a poor first impression.
Refrain from using Instagram or Snapchat filters that might add flair, such as geofilters. While these might make for interesting social media posts, professional job applications require photos that portray you in a professional yet approachable light without unnecessary embellishments or filters.
Your TEFL job application picture should reflect more than just aesthetics: it should convey professionalism, approachability and dedication to teaching. By following these tips for selecting an eye-catching photo that enhances both your application as well as increases your odds of landing a TEFL teaching position.
Remember, resources for TEFL job applications are readily available to assist with this exciting journey. Don't feel isolated as we're here every step of the way - happy job hunting!