Applying through the website
– I still haven’t received any reply!
Please be aware that we receive hundreds of applications every week and are unable to respond to all applications. We are looking for the most highly qualified teachers. If you pass the resumee screening, we will contact you within one week.
Teaching with Ecom
– How does the Ecom scheduling system work?
Teachers publish their availability on our website. Students can check the available time of our teachers and book lessons up to 12 hours in advance. Due to this, please be aware that we cannot guarantee a consistent timetable for lessons.
– When can I work?
Teachers are free to set up their own schedule, depending on their availability. However, we expect teachers to be available for lessons at least 20 hours per week. (However we cannot guarantee 20 hours of actual lessons per week) Since Ecom is an online school, we operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Most of our students are living in Japan and prefer to have lessons in the morning and evening (Japan Time) and on weekends/Japanese public holidays.
-What kind of lesson does Ecom offer, and how long is each lesson?
Ecom lessons are one to one and performed over Skype using a webcam and microphone. The minimum lesson duration is 30 minutes, and the duration can be extended in 30 minute blocks (e.g. 1 hour, 1 and a half hours). Besides Skype, we also make use of an online classroom system, where lesson materials can be viewed/uploaded by both the student and teacher.
-Are textbooks used during the lesson? Or is it conversation based?
Each lesson is designed according to the individual needs of the student. Some students prefer to have free talk lessons, in which case images or articles sourced by the teacher or student can be used as stimulus. Textbooks can also be used, and are available to download free of charge from the online classroom portal.
– What is the payment process like?
Payment is calculated monthly, depending on the number of 30 minute blocks you have completed during the month. (one hour = two 30 minute slots) Payment is processed through PayPal (in USD) for teachers outside of Japan or through bank transfer (in JPY) for teachers residing inside Japan. Payment is usually processed on the 25th of the next month.
-Where is Ecom located?
Ecom is online based, and we do not operate physical classrooms. Our office is located in Takadanobaba, Shinjuku, Tokyo and in Nagoya.
Before and after the interview
-What do I need to prepare for the interview?
To prepare for the interview, you need a high speed internet connection, a Skype account, a microphone and a webcam. Since all lessons are conducted via Skype, we would like you to take the interview from a desktop or laptop computer (not smartphone). This is so that we can test the quality and stability of your connection/devices.
-Do I need to prepare a Demo lesson?
The first interview will be a discussion about your experience/capability for the job. If asked to return for a second interview, we will require you to conduct a short demonstration lesson. We will provide the material for the demonstration lesson prior to the interview.
-What is the next step in the
The first interview will take around 15 minutes. Once the interview is completed, we will contact successful applicants within 2-3 days. Please note that we only contact successful applicants. If unsuccessful, you can reapply to our school from 6 months after the last interview.