Choosing to become a Japanese tutor can be a great way to get extra language practice and learn teaching skills while earning income. In addition to having strong language skills, a person who wishes to become a Japanese tutor must also learn how to communicate effectively and help students learn better and faster. Once required skills are mastered, a tutor can start earning money by signing up with a tutoring service or creating a self-directed tutoring business.
The first step needed to become a Japanese tutor is language mastery. Tutors may be native speakers, but many simply study the language for several years. In addition to understanding vocabulary, good tutors also understand grammar, sentence construction, and slang. Since Japanese uses three alphabets, tutors must be able to read, understand, and teach the writing of kanji and katakana as well as the more commonly used hiragana alphabet.
Students and professional tutoring services may want to see proof of language mastery before hiring a Japanese tutor. Some language schools offer certification programs that will allow students to take tests to prove their level of fluency. Contact local Japanese language programs or college language departments to find out about certification options in a local area. While not all jobs may require certification, possession of tangible proof of skills may help a person who wants to become a Japanese tutor appear more professional.
Since many Japanese students want to learn about the culture and history of Japan, tutors may benefit from studying these subjects as well. With a comprehensive knowledge of Japanese history and culture, tutors can then incorporate this information into tutoring lessons through stories, lessons, and games. Helping students gain a love of Japan may boost their desire to practice and perfect language skills.
Once language skills are mastered, a person who wishes to become a Japanese tutor may want to focus on communication skills and teaching strategies. Many people search for tutors when they are having difficulty with a language, and may already be frustrated when they walk in the door. A good tutor will not only help a student pass his or her class, but find a way to teach students that helps them comprehend the language better. Consider taking some classes in education, reading books about teaching strategies, or attending teaching seminars to get ideas on how to improve communication skills and be a better tutor.
Even with all the necessary skills, some business savvy is also required to become a Japanese tutor. Some tutors choose to apply to jobs with a professional tutoring service, which will handle the marketing and advertising for employees. Those who prefer to have more control over their hours, rates, and choice of students, may want to set up an independent tutoring business and begin advertising services. Consider posting advertisements at language schools, in school and local newspapers, and through advertising websites. Tutoring entrepreneurs may also want to establish a tutoring website that will allow clients to read about available services in detail and contact the tutor directly.
