Being scammed is the number one concern for our students and prospects. Even those who traveled to Thailand said they half expected no-one to be there when they arrived at the training center or hotel!!
It's certainly normal to be skeptical these days, especially with so much bad publicity about online rip-offs, but is this deep rooted fear really justified? I have never actually heard of any TEFL scam in over 10 years! I mean where someone takes the money and runs away without providing any service. It's pretty difficult these days to get in front of potential customers with just a website and zero marketing investment. It costs a FORTUNE to advertise online these days, even now on Facebook, and only serious bidders are able to do this.
The same applies to cowboy operations but the great thing about people leaving feedback on Facebook, it can force dodgy training organizations out of business.
The truth is, any dodgy TEFL provider will be hard to spot at first, but here are "5 Things You MUST Check" to ensure you are dealing with a reputable TEFL organization.
1. Make all payments via PayPal or your Credit Card. This way your money is secure and you are guaranteed to get it back should the organization disappear or go out of business. PayPal offers you the best protection for making online payments.
2. Make sure the TEFL/TESOL course is moderated or accredited by one of three global organizations; Cambridge ESOL, Trinity College or the World TEFL Association.
3. Join the company's Facebook page and speak to previous customers.
4. Make sure the organization has at least 10 or more lengthy testimonials on their website. 2-3 short testimonials cannot be trusted.
5. Make sure you have the organization's office address and phone number. When you call, does anyone answer the phone? Can they speak English? You would be surprised! This gives you a sense of how responsive they will be whenever you need assistance.
So do some research and relax. You have much, more to gain by being adventurous than staying at home! Start here now>
It's certainly normal to be skeptical these days, especially with so much bad publicity about online rip-offs, but is this deep rooted fear really justified? I have never actually heard of any TEFL scam in over 10 years! I mean where someone takes the money and runs away without providing any service. It's pretty difficult these days to get in front of potential customers with just a website and zero marketing investment. It costs a FORTUNE to advertise online these days, even now on Facebook, and only serious bidders are able to do this.
The same applies to cowboy operations but the great thing about people leaving feedback on Facebook, it can force dodgy training organizations out of business.
The truth is, any dodgy TEFL provider will be hard to spot at first, but here are "5 Things You MUST Check" to ensure you are dealing with a reputable TEFL organization.
1. Make all payments via PayPal or your Credit Card. This way your money is secure and you are guaranteed to get it back should the organization disappear or go out of business. PayPal offers you the best protection for making online payments.
2. Make sure the TEFL/TESOL course is moderated or accredited by one of three global organizations; Cambridge ESOL, Trinity College or the World TEFL Association.
3. Join the company's Facebook page and speak to previous customers.
4. Make sure the organization has at least 10 or more lengthy testimonials on their website. 2-3 short testimonials cannot be trusted.
5. Make sure you have the organization's office address and phone number. When you call, does anyone answer the phone? Can they speak English? You would be surprised! This gives you a sense of how responsive they will be whenever you need assistance.
So do some research and relax. You have much, more to gain by being adventurous than staying at home! Start here now>
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