So, the reason for yesterday's rather breathless post was that as I was writing it, I saw that the British Council here in Penang were looking for an English teacher. There's no doubt that they're a good organisation to work for, and they offered a good salary.
It was a real coincidence, as I was going to go there yesterday anyway. So I saw the advert, and dreamt to myself that I could have the same experience as Aurelie. She went to the AF and spoke to the director and got herself a job on the spot (she hasn't signed the contract yet, but we're pretty sure she's got the job).
I did fear the worse however, as I know that the BC have their systems for recruitment and so on, and thought I'd be given short shrift, which unfortunately turned out to be the case. It's a long story...but I spoke to a lady to whom I explained my situation. She went off to talk to someone else, who then must have told her what I feared would be the case - that I must apply in the same way as anyone else. This meant filling in their online application form, although I was standing right there in their offices, fulfilling all of their criteria, ready to work. I certainly didn't get to speak to the director!
You might say that that is fair, that I deserve no special treatment - but surely it would've been also beneficial to them - to recruit someone who is here now, rather than having a telephone interview. But I knew it would happen like that. The lady was frosty and wasn't generous with her time - she wanted me out the door. But they have their all powerful systems, which must not on any account be circumvented. I also rather feel on the receiving end of 'positive' discrimination (they prefer to recruit disabled people and people from ethnic minorities). I hope you appreciate that I wouldn't say they don't deserve the same opportunities as anyone else - and I can appreciate why the BC do this. But perhaps it does serve to impede someone like me, who just wants a job, and is here, ready and available, from getting a job for which I'm suitable.
Anyway, upon reflection I don't want to work for them considering their overly professional and robotic ways. I'm sure I'd hate it. Plus it was 38 hours work a week, including weekends, teaching kids mostly. I'd rather find something with a bit more freedom and enjoyment for less money.
So, anyway, after Aurelie's amazing experience at the AF, we went to the opening of the French film festival, organised by the AF here in Penang. We had a great evening, with free food and Cognac, and met a lot of interesting people. We wore our best clothes (not that great) and we were the only ones in flip flops (it was either that or yellow running shoes). The French ambassador was there, as well as many other dignitaries, and we heard them each make a speech before we watched the opening film called Le Crime est Notre Affair.
And that's about it for now. I'll be looking for a job over the next few days - it seems there are some interesting possibilities around the island. We're still in the hotel for the time being, but Aurelie's new employers have put us into contact with a lady with a small flat to rent. And I hired a scooter yesterday (automatic this time - no gears) so we might go for a ride today - I fancy going to the botanical gardens, or the beach.
Bye for now!
you're doing alright Ben, remember, don't let the b****** get you down,you'll find something, if it's meant to be it will all fall into place.Love to you both from mum xx
Posted by: mum | May 23, 2009 at 10:37 PM