Summary
How to Teach English Online
By: Erin Honigman
Even before the coronavirus pandemic, the virtual English industry was booming. Working from home while teaching eager students sounds appealing, and it is indeed a legitimate career option!
If you’re a native English speaker, securing an online teaching job is straightforward, regardless of your background.
Lack a degree? No problem. You can still find the right online teaching position, so continue reading to discover how.
Why Teach English Online?
You might be wondering, “But I’m not a teacher.” However, teaching English online can be a rewarding career even if you don’t have formal qualifications. You don’t need prior teaching experience to start earning a living.
Online Teaching – Convenient and Flexible
Telecommuting provides immense convenience and flexibility. You can dictate your schedule, choosing to work as little or as much as you’d like. Need a day off? You’re in charge!
Independence
Another advantage is location independence. With a reliable WIFI connection, you can create an engaging classroom from virtually anywhere. So if you’ve always wanted to embrace a digital nomad lifestyle, this is your opportunity.
Earning Potential
Online English teaching offers substantial earning potential. As an online educator, you can expect to earn between $12 USD and $24 USD per hour, along with regular bonuses and pay incentives.
Your specific income will vary based on the company you choose. That’s significant income you could be generating without a formal dress code!
Make New Friends
Teaching English online also provides the chance to connect and interact with people from around the globe. It’s an excellent way to share your culture while learning about others. After consistent online engagement, you may even form lasting friendships with your students and their families.
Can You Teach Without a Degree?
Although having a bachelor’s degree can make finding a job easier, it’s not a necessity for teaching English online. Given the heightened demand for English teachers, fluent speakers can readily discover opportunities. It’s simple to get started; just follow these steps.
How to Teach English Online
The first step to a successful online teaching career is ensuring that you possess the right qualifications.
Get TEFL Certified
Even without a college degree, becoming TEFL certified is an achievable goal. It typically requires around 120 hours to complete. While TEFL certification isn’t mandatory, it significantly enhances your job prospects, particularly if you lack a degree.
Completing a TEFL course helps you stand out in a competitive market and equips you with essential teaching skills, such as lesson planning, classroom management, and diverse teaching methodologies. Even if teaching isn’t your long-term plan, earning TEFL certification will strengthen your resume.
You can find numerous accredited TEFL courses, many available online. One reputable provider is The TEFL Org in the UK, where you can explore a range of certification courses at https://www.tefl.org/tesol.
For additional options, check out https://www.tesol.org.
Check Your Hardware
This may seem obvious, but it’s critical to ensure you have the proper equipment before any interviews. Most online English companies require a video interview and a mock lesson during the hiring process, so your virtual classroom should look appealing.
A high-quality webcam is essential. Adjust your lighting and background to create a suitable environment for your future students. Simple props, like a map or alphabet chart, can enhance the visual appeal based on your students’ age group.
Additionally, a headset with a working microphone is vital. Clear communication is key, especially with nonnative speakers, so ensure your sound quality is top-notch before starting your teaching journey.
Apply to the Right Company
Several online companies are willing to hire teachers without a degree, provided you successfully pass the interview (and having TEFL certification will certainly give you an advantage!). Here are some platforms to consider:
Palfish
Palfish is an online English marketplace allowing teachers to showcase their skills to attract students. With Palfish, you can select your preferred age group, lesson type, and create your own schedule. The hiring process is efficient and quick – you typically need just two hours!
Requirements: A TEFL certification along with a positive and engaging demeanor. For more information about Palfish, visit https://www.ipalfish.com/teacher/.
iTalki
iTalki is a distinctive online tutoring platform where you can apply to tutor any language you speak, even without a degree. If you hold a certification, you can create a specialized professional profile.
Requirements: To become an iTalki teacher, you must be 18 or older, but there are no other specific requirements. However, teachers with TEFL certification or higher credentials will have priority in job placements. Learn more about the application process at https://teach.italki.com/application?hl=en.
Cambly
Cambly is highly regarded for its positive reviews and is known to be an excellent place to work. Unlike many other online teaching companies, Cambly’s classes focus on conversation, providing a laid-back environment for improving speaking skills. Most students are adults, allowing for a broader discussion of topics.
Requirements: No special qualifications are necessary to work with Cambly, including prior experience. Visit their site at https://www.cambly.com/en/tutors?lang=en for more details.
SkimaTalk
SkimaTalk is another appealing option as it allows you to set your pay rate and schedule. However, prioritizing student satisfaction is crucial, as positive reviews can make a significant difference.
Requirements: SkimaTalk welcomes native English speakers aged 18 and up. Previous experience is preferred but not mandatory. Apply today at https://www.skimatalk.com/en/teacher_info.
Yourself!
Another viable option is to become your own boss. Once you earn your TEFL certification, you can start a business by promoting your services and conducting lessons via Zoom or Skype. Choose your teaching methods and age groups, and you can quickly get started!
No Bachelor’s Degree? No Worries!
Do not let the absence of a degree hold you back from pursuing a rewarding career teaching English online. Start with your TEFL certification and explore opportunities within these companies today. The more experience you gain, the more professional development you will acquire. Who knows? A year from now, you might be well-equipped as an online English teacher, even without a degree!
