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Following the Rules in China — A Good Insurance Policy

Written by Robert Vance on March 26, 2008 – 9:08 am

Too many foreign teachers in China take the fact that they are treated like royalty to mean that they can do whatever they wish. If they want to show up late to class who is going to stop them? If they want to skip a staff meeting who is going to care? In fact, no one may stop them or even show annoyance at a skipped meeting. But following the rules and thus establishing a good relationship with your school is like taking out an insurance policy. You want your school to be enthusiastic about helping you if a problem arises.

Unless you never step foot outside your apartment during your stay in China, you will inevitably encounter some problems that will be above and beyond your ability to solve. An administration that is eager to help you because they value your services can make a lot of difference in terms of how quickly an issue is resolved. Example of issues that might arise include theft, visa problems, and common misunderstandings. If your school is happy with your services as a teacher, then they will want to make you happy in anyway that they can.

The relationship that you forge with the administration is also important for the future. You never can know when a connection that you have with a school or with a headmaster could open up doors for you. On a personal note, my first boss in China has treated me very well since I left his school. When I came back to his city visit last year, he gave me a place to stay and some temporary work. He also wanted to offer me a better job with the school but unfortunately, I was unable to stay in that city.

So even if you feel like you are royalty sometimes, don’t act like you are. Remember that you are still an employee and that at the end of your contract you will have either a good or bad reputation. Be responsible and treat your job in China like you would any other job in your home country. It’s worth it! I promise!

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