Many language schools require teachers to have Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Certification first before actually giving them English teaching jobs. Subsequently, it is not surprising that a lot of schools offering English language certification programs are sprouting in many areas around the world. The catch, of course, is knowing if one program is valid or not.

It is only necessary to learn as much as possible about a program which interests you before deciding accordingly. In the case of acquiring certification, this can be easily done by asking what kind of assistance the program offers, doing a research on their teaching experience and the teaching hours, and looking at how the graduates found employment. Online research is a typical but effective process to narrow down your search, but speaking to the staff and the cost of the program may help you easily weigh your decisions.

So you have the certification. Now what? Most teachers will agree that your first job will be tough that you have to grind your teeth to dust to have staying power. If you have not taught in a foreign climate before, here are some factors to consider before taking the leap:

Students. Who will you be teaching and why do they want to learn? You might be teaching professionals who want to learn how to give English instructions, or you might be teaching immigrant students so they will be able to cope with SAT's (Scholastic Aptitude Tests) and college requirements in the future. Both scenarios are different and require different approaches. And an English instructor is likely to face a lot more different scenarios as she goes on teaching English.

Equipment. It is an advantage to have access to audio-visual aids which may help in keeping the lessons interesting. Determine which equipment is convenient for you to operate and check beforehand if it is available for you to use.

Books. Some schools have a list of books that they feel might be useful to teachers, but remarkably ineffective for students. If you must use their books, review and modify some of the content before using it for discussion and lesson plans. It is recommended that you find your own book to which you feel is more conducive to the learning process.

Size of Classes. A class of 15 is already a challenge for most English teachers to manage. Teaching English require giving feedback to the individual student. A huge class may make monitoring the progress of each student overwhelming to the English instructor.

Time. 15 to 20 hours a week teaching in the classroom is the most ideal. The veterans of this field can handle 21 to 24 hours in one week.

Visa Requirements. This is probably the most tedious part, as you will need to deal with immigration officers, a lot of paperwork, and legal fees. It is most optimal if your employer is willing to assist you in obtaining a legal work visa and if a school official will handle the paperwork.

Becoming a TEFL English teacher has many benefits. Being able to address the issues that come with teaching English jobs is the way to gain these benefits at the soonest possible time.

Jayson Pino Guevarra is currently the Chief Research and Development Officer of Executive English, an international company which assists global communication through the efficient use of technology. Executive English brings together people who want to learn English online http://www.learnonlineenglish.com, professionals who are qualified to handle English teaching jobs http://www.englishincome.com, and expert providers of online learning support for distance education.