Hello, everyone! My name is Frazer, and I am the main person behind Online English Teaching Jobs, Online Teachers Club, and Teachers Exchange. Today, I’m here to answer one of the most common questions I receive: What is the best online English school to work for in 2024?
Understanding the Current Online English Teaching Market
The online teaching market has evolved significantly over the years. Many teachers ask me which company is the best to work for, but the truth is, there isn’t a single standout company anymore. The market has become saturated, and the quality of many large online teaching companies has declined. Companies that were once reliable and well-paying have cut back, making it harder to find a company that pays a reasonable wage and treats its teachers well.
How Much Can You Earn as an Online English Teacher?
For native English speakers, you should aim to earn at least $10 an hour. Most companies offer between $10 and $15 an hour, with some going up to $20 if you have specific qualifications and experience. Non-native speakers often earn between $2 and $7 an hour due to market demand. It’s essential to set realistic expectations about pay based on your qualifications and the current market conditions.
Top Platforms to Find Online English Teaching Jobs
To maximize your chances of finding a good job, diversify your job search. Don’t rely on one company. Here are a few top platforms where you can find online English teaching jobs:
- Online English Teaching Jobs.com: Our platform and Facebook group have over 137,000 members. We regularly update job postings and maintain quality content for our community.
- ESL Cafe: Formerly known as Dave’s ESL Cafe, this site now has an online section with numerous job listings. It’s a great place to find smaller companies that might offer better pay and conditions.
- Create-a-Profile Companies: Platforms like iTalki and Outschool allow you to create a profile, set your rates, and attract students. They take a commission for marketing your services, but it’s a good middle ground between freelancing and working for a company.
Freelancing: The Ultimate Goal for Online English Teachers
If you’re serious about a long-term career in online teaching, consider moving towards freelancing or starting your own online school. While working for companies can provide stability initially, freelancing offers higher earning potential and more control over your work. Specializing in high-demand areas, such as IELTS preparation or specialized subject tutoring, can also increase your earning potential.
My Personal Experience with Online English Teaching
I’ve been teaching English online while traveling across Southeast Asia, living comfortably in Thailand. I recently built a house here and manage a team of three teachers, earning a commission on their work while treating them fairly. This industry offers ample opportunities to make a good living if you provide quality service and build a strong reputation.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Online English Teachers
- Diversify Your Job Applications: Apply to multiple companies to increase your chances of finding a good fit.
- Set Realistic Pay Expectations: Understand that most online teaching jobs pay between $10 and $15 an hour for native speakers.
- Consider Freelancing: Long-term success in online teaching often involves moving towards freelancing or starting your own online school.
- Stay Informed: Join communities like Online English Teaching Jobs.com and ESL Cafe to stay updated on job opportunities and industry trends.
There isn’t a definitive “best” online English school to work for, but there are many viable options. Whether you’re looking for a steady job with a company or aiming to build your own freelance career, the key is to stay informed, diversify your job applications, and continuously improve your teaching skills.
I hope this guide helps clarify the landscape of online English teaching in 2024. For more insights and updates, join our community and stay connected.
Take it easy, and happy teaching!