Quote:
Originally Posted by freeway  hi good people 
is anyone of you familiar with (a not english!) language teaching-job? because i wanna teach german in hong kong (preferably to infants / kindergarten children). my partner already told me, that this is highly appreciated by HK ppl. i'm just worried about one fact. i got a good college-degree, but i didn't study. also i don't have any kind of certificate's, except the fact, that it's my native language. what would you suggest to me?
and also... would you think it's possible that a language school could sponsor me?
and if they do. how will the meeting take place, while i'm not in HK? i know - many questions  , but maybe there's someone here who can answer it! ^^ |
Hi freeway
I tend to disagree with HKChigger. Although, German Swiss International School has a long waiting list of people willing to volunteer their services I do believe that there is a niche market for German private tutors for both the business executive market and even for kids.
I recommend that you contact the German Chamber of Commerce here in HK and obtain potential business contacts from them or attend some events and talk to people yourself. Meet with German companies sending families here to HK and even some relocation companies too!
Also, doing market research by looking at where German playgroups are offered (if any), start by looking at Geobaby.com, then consider where do these children continue once they have out grown the playgroup. You need to think about who you are marketing your service(s) to the local mainstream Chinese market or the German expat market who are either raising their kids here in HK and/or in a multicultural marriage where only one parent speaks German.
Plus, don't forget that in HK there are limited uni spaces and several students look at German uni's as an alternative for a uni placement particularly in the sciences - so this is also another potential market - as these students need assistance with language (oral and written) and cultural adaption to assist with any cultural differences which may occur.
Lastly, business people need business language and cultural adaption when dealing with German speakers as the non verbal part of the language can be easily misunderstood.
If you are really serious about pursuing your endevour you should consider attending a short course / workshop on language learning and/or early childhood education and/or an executive coaching workshop and/or obtain a certificate.
Your partner is right there is a market however, my personal opinion is that it is going to be a niche market and with a good market research, business plan and networking within the right groups - you may find yourself very busy.