Job Prospects in Japan

We read online a few days ago that a major English language school, GEOS, filed for bankruptcy. There are over 200 locations of this school across Japan. Many of them are being purchased by another language school, G.communication. While some locations are closing, classes have already been cancelled and teachers laid off.
Today I read that GEOS is trying to back out of bankruptcy. So right now it's unclear what will really happen with the company.

But what matters for me and Tanner is that this reflects larger issues is Japan. For about ten years the number of students who want to learn English has remained the same, and even gotten smaller. While there are as many language teachers as their ever have been. After NOVA closed, and now GEOS, there are a flood of English teachers who are all looking for jobs right now. These people also have their work visas already and experience in teaching English. If we tried to go get jobs this month, it would be tough.

Some of the people in our lives believe you can just move to Japan and find a job and all will be well. It is true that if you can afford to move there and try hard you can get hired. But there are a lot of part time jobs, and a lot of awful companies, and a lot of situations that would be miserable. A lot of companies and schools won't sponsor a work visa. A lot of companies require teaching experience. Some require international drivers licenses because they want you to shuttle yourself between schools. Some schools require you find your own students, so you spend your days on the street handing out fliers.

So, Tanner and I don't have experience or work visas. We are going to look for a job that will sponsor us before we arrive. But we are prepared to move and look for work once we arrive. We have done a lot of work and research, we will be prepared. I think we know what to look for so we don't end up in a job that we have to work for a year that will make us miserable. I just want everyone to know that it is not easy.