Teach English in Tanshang Zhen - Xinzhou Shi

To me, this is the most important thing in any setting. The way you are dressed and present yourself the first day on a new job will dictate what people think of you. You may be the smartest person in the world but if you don't look the part people won't respect you. Dress nice, smile, be confident. Don't look at the floor or at the wall when addressing people. Look them in the eye when you are talking and listening. They will have the utmost respect for you if you look at them, especially if you are teacher. The more they respect you, the more they will pay attention. My background is in business. It's really hard to make a sale when you don't have the respect of your client. Whether the students are beginners or business professionals, they need to respect you. Good communication is a key factor in building rapport. This can be tricky when teaching in foreign countries because chances are the students understanding will be limited. Doesn't matter what language you speak everyone understands what a big smile means. "Laughter is the best medicine". So, keep it fun! No matter what age group you are teaching, you need empathy. You need to know your student. We won't necessarily know what is going on in their personal life. If you feel something is off talk to them in an one on one environment. Let them know you are there for them. You're their teacher but you can be their mentor and friend as well. People love talking about themselves, so find some common ground. Ask them questions about what they like to do in their spare time, where they have traveled and about their family. You may have a lot in common. I feel kids are a great judge of character because of how honest they are. They are not afraid to say exactly what is on their mind. This is the demographic I need to focus on more. I've never taught kids in a classroom setting before. From most the people I have talked to that teach English, that is where you start. Kids just want to have fun. Say hello, smile and let them know you are fun. When writing your lesson plans make them fun. We can still learn when playing games. When people are happy, in general, they are more willing to learn and grow. Kindergarten kids are like sponges. I want to have fun with them. I want to be the teacher they remember when they are older. I know I have had a few of those teachers and what I remember most about them now, as I look back is, they talked to me like a normal person and with respect. That's what I want to be. We as adults can learn a lot from children too. They have a whole different outlook on life that we forgot along the way somehow. Building rapport is key. There are many ways to do so. But, when it comes down to it, it's about being a good communicator and listener. Thanks Josh Riddell