What are some lesser known Eikaiwas to apply to?

5 comments

1. Use Google maps. Go to an area you’re happy to work and search for 英会話. You get the added benefit of having reviews to check.

2. Not really but every town will have local, independent ones. Check the job boards and see for yourself…

3. One thing you should be aware of is that some of the small eikaiwa are worse than the large chain ones. The chain ones, being larger, are under scrutiny by the labor bureau and the tax bureau, but still manage to stretch labor law to benefit their bottom line. But the small ones can outright break it since there is less oversight and accountability. You should be sure to talk to the other employees, check their reputation online, e.g., Glassdoor, and don’t fully trust them until they’ve proven themselves. Always have a backup plan so that you can quit and get out.

   Just as an example, a friend of mine works at a school where, if the student cancels the lesson, he doesn’t get paid for that hour. Since he’s on a contract with specific hours, this is obviously not legal. But the owner gets away with it because the teachers don’t protest and aren’t unionized. This is just one example of the kind of BS these small eikaiwa try to get away with.

   Oh, and join the union. 🙂

4. Go independent. Fuck the chains. I love who I work for. You will be valued more if you go for an independent Eikawa.

5. Small eikaiwa are eclectic. Some are great and can feel like a work-family, and some can be abusive nightmares that try to rob you (*cough* GEM *cough*).

   Go in understanding that every company is doing something illegal and its up to you to decide what kind of illegal you can abide by, unfortunately.

   Learn some labor law (google “Japan Labor Standards Act”) or consult a labor union about any fuzzy things that come up in the contract. Best of luck.