English is recognized as the universal language and is officially used by people in more than 70 countries all over the world to communicate and interact with each other. Through the years, English has evolved to become a remarkable language that can break communication barriers among nations with distinct cultures and languages.  

Aside from bringing people together, it is also valuable for economic growth and development. In fact, a 2013 study showed that there is a direct relationship between a population’s English skills and the economic performance of their country.  

Alt tag: English has become the global language of business, and enhanced communication skills in this language are essential to professional growth.  

This is because English has become an essential part of business—from job interviews to actual work in the professional world. Companies want individuals who are able to communicate clearly and effectively so they usually include proficiency in English as a prerequisite to hiring. Therefore, enhanced communication skills in English mean more opportunities for professional growth for individuals.  

Because of this, individuals from non-native English-speaking countries are constantly motivated to pursue English lessons. However, it’s interesting to note that these learners are acquiring English through TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language). Their learning experience differs from those who have the means to travel to English-speaking countries and use the language in day-to-day living.  

With more than 740 million non-native speakers in the world, the demand for TEFL will not slow down soon. The industry is showing signs of flourishing despite the global health crisis as teachers are discovering ways to teach English online. According to a study by I-to-I entitled, “An Analysis of TEFL Jobs’ Market,” there are about 7,005 teaching job posts advertised online, 31 percent of which are virtual teaching.  

If you are still on the fence on whether or not to do online TEFL, you might want to take a sit on this article to learn more about its various benefits and advantages.

#1: Online TEFL is a flourishing industry.

TEFL is considered to be necessary in various nations all over the world. In particular, Europe, Hong Kong, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam and China demand a high number of TEFL teachers, either in a physical classroom or an online learning setup.

However, since face-to-face instruction is impossible at the moment due to the ongoing pandemic, TEFL schools are currently looking for English teachers who can teach virtually. A number of countries are still locking their regions down as a health and safety measure in response to the pandemic, so the industry is leveraging technology and the Internet to continue addressing the needs of learners from all around the world.

Rather than brick-and-mortar classrooms, online platforms are now utilized as a new space for conducive EFL learning. This shift may be drastic and sudden, but the good news is that established online teaching platforms like 51Talk know the necessary steps to take to adapt to the new normal while maintaining quality service and high standards.  

Now, what does this all mean for you?  

With TEFL, you have the opportunity to get paid to teach English online despite the economic challenges the world is facing today. Education will always be in demand, and if you partner with the best sites for teaching English online, you’re sure to find marvelous teaching opportunities.  

Alt tag: There is a bigger need for individuals who can teach English online despite the economic challenges brought about by the global health crisis.  

#2: Doing TEFL offers competitive earnings and relative stability.

Although TEFL earnings vary significantly according to your education, experience and location, its earnings range is nevertheless competitive.  

Based on the same research by I-to-I, the highest TEFL classroom-based monthly salary range advertised in March 2020 runs from 2500$ or higher, while the lowest is between 200$ to 1000$.  

Furthermore, the length of TEFL contracts differs across various countries. Usually, classroom-based positions have contracts that range from a year to two years. On the other hand, there is no fixed term contract on online teaching platforms, only service-level agreements for the provision of teaching services. Opportunities to earn online can therefore be continuous.  

#3: TEFL is an exciting and dynamic industry that boosts your personal and professional growth.

TEFL employers and platforms accept aspiring teachers with no previous experience, as long as they pass the screening process.

However, you must keep in mind that you will have to improve your skills throughout your time on the platform  to meet the standards of excellence and professionalism set by the company you’re teaching with. After all, this is not just an ordinary opportunity; you’re there to hone young people’s language skills in every session.  

While this sounds like an overwhelming task, the good news is that you’re not on your own. Most TEFL schools and platforms like 51Talk provide their teachers with free training programs and certification to help teachers like you master your craft.  

TEFL shows a lot of promise  

As the world continues to adjust to the new normal, the TEFL industry is also making a shift to distance and online learning. The transition is a huge undertaking, but this is a good sign that there are plenty of opportunities waiting for you despite the loss of jobs in other industries.  

This is an excellent chance for you to put your abilities to the test and hone your aptitude for the English language, all of which will surely be beneficial for you in the future.  

Want to teach English online to Chinese students? 51Talk is still looking for passionate and energetic individuals to join its ever-growing pool of teachers. The platform allows you to teach, learn, and earn in the comfort of your own homes. Don’t miss out on this excellent opportunity and sign up today!