There are several common sense factors you should consider when applying for a post, attending an interview or working abroad. 

  • Do not provide any banking or credit card information when applying for a job.

  • If you are concerned about divulging your home address in your resume, consider using a post office box or similar forwarding address.

  • When attending a job interview, if you feel in any way uncomfortable with the situation or the person/s you are dealing with, walk away. Also consider your work location, do you feel it is safe? Would you be happy to work there late at night?

  • Always let a friend know that you are attending an interview, when and where. acquaint yourself fully with how to get to the interview and how to get back.

  • An interview should always be arranged in daylight hours.

  • If the job appears to be "too good to be true", it probably is. Fully research the employer via web forums, search engines and previous employees. Most reputable employers should be happy to put you in touch with previous/current staff.

  • As previously stated, no reputable employer will ask you for money (even for a visa, work-permit etc.). If a tefl.com advertiser does ask you for payment (and is not stated in the advertisement), refuse and contact us immediately.

  • As a TEFL.com member your resume contact details are not in the public domain. Only registered employers can view your resume (contact details removed) via our resume search engine. If an employer wishes to view your contact details they are required to use a "ResumeView". Our system logs all resumes viewed by the employer. You can also check as to which employers have viewed your resume here or by clicking on "Who's viewed my resume" within your account page.

  • Register with your embassy as soon as you arrive in the host country.


Your safety is paramount. If you feel uneasy with any part of the application procedure or interview, walk away!

Going abroad...

  • Get travel insurance and check that the cover is appropriate.

  • Check what vaccinations you need at least 6 weeks before you go and consider whether you need to take extra health precautions

  • Ensure you have a valid passport that is in good condition and the necessary visas.

  • Make copies of your passport (including any visa pages), insurance policy plus 24-hour emergency number, and ticket details. Leave these copies, your itinerary and contact details with family and friends.

  • Take enough money for your trip and some back-up funds eg travellers cheques, sterling or US dollars.

Travel advice:

Foreign & Commonwealth Office "Know Before You Go"

EU & other countries affected by BREXIT (UK Govt. advice for UK nationals living abroad)

US Department of State travel warnings

Australian Government Travel Advisories

New Zealand Travel Advisories.