Congratulations on getting your TEFL certification! This is indeed a big step, and now you’re ready to start teaching English online. It’s an amazing way to use your skills, work from home, and help people learn English. Plus, it gives you the freedom to set your own hours and work from wherever you like.
For Australians, this is a great time to begin. There are students all over the world looking for teachers with clear English and a friendly accent. The best part? You don’t need to have been a teacher before. As long as you have your TEFL certification and a passion for helping others, you’re good to go.
Now you might be wondering: What do I do next?
How do you start teaching and find students?
This guide will walk you through all the steps. We’ll talk about why teaching online is a good choice, what you need to get started, and how to handle challenges when you’re new. Whether you want to teach part-time, full-time, or as a side gig, we’re here to help you get started. Let’s dive in and take the first step together!
Why Online Teaching is Perfect for TEFL Certified Professionals
Teaching English online is becoming more popular every day, and for good reason. If you’re someone who loves the idea of working on your own terms, this career is for you. Here are a few reasons as to why teaching online works so well:
Work from Anywhere
- Whether you’re at home, traveling, or living overseas, all you need is a laptop, good internet, and your teaching skills.
Flexible Schedule
- You choose when to teach. Whether it’s mornings, evenings, or weekends, you can set hours that fit your lifestyle.
Global Demand
- Students everywhere are eager to learn English. With a TEFL certification, you’re ready to meet that demand and make a real impact.
Start Quickly
- You don’t need years of experience or a long interview process to get started. With the right platform, you can start teaching almost immediately.
For Australian teachers, the demand is even stronger. Having a clear English and friendly tone makes you a great choice for students around the world – especially in countries where English teachers are highly valued, like China, Japan, South Korea and parts of Europe.
Why TEFL Certification Makes You Stand Out
Some people think that speaking English fluently is enough to teach. While fluency is important, your TEFL certification gives you the skills you need to teach effectively. The course would have taught you how to:
- Create engaging and structured lessons.
- Help students improve their grammar, vocabulary, and speaking skills.
- Adapt your teaching style to suit beginners, kids, or advanced learners.
This theorotical and practical knowledge sets you apart from non-TEFL teachers and makes you a more reliable choice for students.
Step-by-Step Guide to Start Teaching Online
So, how do you actually start teaching English online? Here’s a simple guide that will help you do it:
Step 1: Research Online Teaching Platforms
There are many platforms where you can teach English online, and each one works a little differently. Some platforms, like VIPKid or Cambly, have their own lesson plans, so you don’t need to create anything from scratch. Others, like Preply or iTalki, let you design your own lessons and set your own rates. Do a little research and pick a platform that suits your style.
Here’s a quick overview of popular platforms:
- VIPKid: Focuses on teaching children in China. They provide all the lesson materials, so you just need to show up and teach.
- Cambly: Great for beginners. You chat with students in a relaxed way, helping them improve their conversational skills.
- Preply & iTalki: These platforms let you set your own rates and teach in a more flexible way. You can design lessons for adults, kids, or professionals.
- EF Education First: A popular platform for structured teaching with students of all ages.
If you want more control, you can also start freelancing by promoting yourself directly to students or joining teacher Facebook groups where opportunities are shared.
Here is a well-researched article offering an in-depth look at the top online platforms where teachers can teach English effectively.
Step 2: Create a Stand-Out Teacher Profile
Your teacher profile is your first impression, so make it count! Here’s what you can include:
- A friendly introduction about yourself (keep it warm and professional).
- Highlight your TEFL certification and any other experience (like tutoring, mentoring, or coaching).
- Mention what kind of students you’d like to teach (beginners, adults, kids, etc.).
- Add a short, welcoming video. A smile and clear voice go a long way to attract students!
Example Introduction for Your Profile:
Hi, I’m Sarah from Australia! I’m a TEFL-certified teacher with a passion for helping students learn English in a fun and engaging way. I’ve taught kids and adults of all levels, and I’d love to help you improve your speaking and confidence.
Step 3: Set Up Your Teaching Space
While you don’t need a fancy setup, that is too cluttered, your space should look professional and feel comfortable (easy to ones eyes). Make sure you have:
- A quiet background (even a plain wall works well).
- Good lighting so students can see you clearly.
- A reliable laptop, headphones, and a strong internet connection.
Pro Tip: Add a few props like flashcards or a small whiteboard if you’re teaching kids. It makes lessons more interactive and fun.
Step 4: Prepare Your First Lessons
If the platform provides lesson plans, start there. If not, you can use your TEFL training to plan simple lessons. Focus on what your students need most – whether it’s conversation practice, grammar, or basic vocabulary. Keep your first lessons light and fun to help you build confidence.
Need inspiration? Use free resources like:
- ESL websites: Sites like BusyTeacher or TeachThis have ready-to-go worksheets.
- YouTube: Find videos to share for listening exercises.
- Online tools: Apps like Quizlet or Kahoot make lessons interactive.
Step 5: Start Teaching and Build Experience
Once you start teaching, be patient with yourself. The first few lessons might feel a little nerve-wracking, but that’s normal! With each lesson, you’ll feel more confident and comfortable. Collect reviews and feedback from your students – this will help you improve and attract even more learners.
How to Stand Out as an Australian English Teacher
As an Australian TEFL-certified teacher, you bring something special to the table. Here’s how to use that to your advantage:
- Your Accent: Many students love learning from Australians because the accent is clear and easy to understand. Play up this strength in your profile or intro video.
- Culture: Share bits of Australian culture with your students – they’ll enjoy hearing about your country, traditions, and way of life. It makes the lessons more engaging.
- Flexibility: Thanks to Australia’s time zones, you can teach students in Asia during their evenings and still have time for yourself.
Marketing Yourself
If you’re freelancing, it helps to promote yourself on social media or through teacher communities. Here are a few tips:
- Use platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn to share your availability.
- Post short videos showcasing your teaching style.
- Join ESL teaching groups where students look for private teachers.
Overcoming Challenges When Starting Out
Like any new job, teaching English online comes with a few challenges. Here’s how to handle them:
- Time Zones: Teaching students in other countries can mean odd hours. Start slow, and find a schedule that works for you.
- Technology Issues: Make sure your internet connection is strong, and always have a backup plan (like a mobile hotspot) in case something goes wrong.
- Student Needs: Every student is different. Some might need help with conversation, while others focus on grammar. Listen to your students and adjust your lessons to meet their goals.
Final Thoughts: Take the First Step
Teaching English online is a fantastic way to use your TEFL certification and connect with students all over the world. It’s flexible, rewarding, and full of opportunities. Whether you want to teach part-time or make it a full-time career, you’ve got everything you need to get started.
Remember, you don’t have to be perfect on day one. Start slow, learn as you go, and enjoy the experience. Your TEFL certification is your ticket to a whole new world of possibilities – so take the first step and get out there. Happy teaching!
