It's all about looks over quality

It's all about looks over quality

White-skinned native English-speaking teachers are definitely preferred in Thailand and all of Asia. That's good news if you happen to be white as it effectively eliminates a good portion of your job competition. With few exceptions there are very few non-white English teachers in Thailand. My previous school even preferred barely understandable non-native English speaking white South Africans and Russians over non-white native English-speaking teachers from America and the UK.

Thais clearly prioritize presentation or looks over substance or quality when it comes to English teachers. They perceive white skin and Caucasian features as more attractive and presentable across Thai society. The longer I live here, the more I tend to agree, and as a white westerner as it works to my advantage. But it doesn't mean it's impossible to find a job as a teacher if you're a non-white, however you'll need to be very persistent, patient and flexible in what's offered.

There is no wrong or right about it. Thais get to decide what works or doesn't work for them. It's their world and they like it that way.

Tim


Read more letters

Send your letter to Ajarn.com



Featured Jobs

English Conversation Teachers

฿35,000+ / month

Thailand


Online Tutors / Teachers

฿800+ / hour

Online


Native English Teachers

฿46,000+ / month

Thailand


Early Year Homeroom Teacher

฿50,000+ / month

Prachin Buri


Online English Teacher (Remote)

฿342+ / hour

Online


Filipino HR and Training Officer

฿28,000+ / month

Bangkok


Featured Teachers

  • Princess


    Filipino, 45 years old. Currently living in Philippines

  • Sophia


    Nigerian, 30 years old. Currently living in United Arab Emirates

  • Benjamin


    Filipino, 32 years old. Currently living in Philippines

  • Kristine


    Filipino, 36 years old. Currently living in Thailand

  • Hermie


    Filipino, 24 years old. Currently living in Philippines

  • Mayoshi


    Filipino, 40 years old. Currently living in Philippines

The Hot Spot


Contributions welcome

Contributions welcome

If you like visiting ajarn.com and reading the content, why not get involved yourself and keep us up to date?


Air your views

Air your views

Got something to say on the topic of teaching, working or living in Thailand? The Ajarn Postbox is the place. Send us your letters!


Will I find work in Thailand?

Will I find work in Thailand?

It's one of the most common questions we get e-mailed to us. So find out exactly where you stand.


The cost of living

The cost of living

How much money does a teacher need to earn in order to live in Thailand? We survey various teachers earning different salaries and with different lifestyles.


The region guides

The region guides

Fancy working in Thailand but not in Bangkok? Our region guides are written by teachers who actually live and work in the provinces.