[englishmarseille]

Hi, I am new on here, and in fact new to forums, so not entirely sure how this all works. Here's hoping a response or two will come in.
I am trying very hard to establish a small business for myself, teaching English, in Marseille. I have created a website, I am registered as a l'auto entrepreneur, I have all the necessary legalities in place - but, finding students is like hunting for that needle in a haystack. Any suggestions, recommendations, advise?
I do not speak French very well... I have contacted places like Acadomia; Wall Street Institute; British American Institute, but all have similar responses, I must be able to converse in French in order to teach.
Hoping to hear back from someone who has been or is in my position - I am happy to exchange ideas etc... Hope to hear from somone

 

[Bevdeforges]

When it comes to taking classes - especially something like English - the French are used to having their employers pay for them. (Hence the reaction you've gotten from Wall St. English and the other commercial schools.) Unless it's through a club or association, people don't really take "classes" for fun, largely because they tend to be very expensive here.

To get started, you need to appeal to the "casual" English learners - perhaps with group lessons or some sort of group English language activity. Or reach out to students looking for tutoring (particularly for the bac exams).

Put up notices in the local shops - bakeries, butcher shops and grocery stores with a notice board. Get involved in local associations and network like crazy. Word of mouth is still the most effective way to get your services known in France.
Cheers,
Bev

 

[englishmarseille]

When it comes to taking classes - especially something like English - the French are used to having their employers pay for them. (Hence the reaction you've gotten from Wall St. English and the other commercial schools.) Unless it's through a club or association, people don't really take "classes" for fun, largely because they tend to be very expensive here.

To get started, you need to appeal to the "casual" English learners - perhaps with group lessons or some sort of group English language activity. Or reach out to students looking for tutoring (particularly for the bac exams).

Put up notices in the local shops - bakeries, butcher shops and grocery stores with a notice board. Get involved in local associations and network like crazy. Word of mouth is still the most effective way to get your services known in France.
Cheers,
Bev

Thanks Bev, I will put your sound advise into action.

 

[SAFFA1]

Hello there, Im South African, living in Marseille.

Im also trying to establish a small business teaching English. How long have you been in France for? I have ideas and wandering if we should meet and get going on this teaching English in Marseille (muchly needed)

Personally what they are telling you is a bunch of hooohaa - ive managed to secure two teaching contracts with language centres here in Marseille, and my french is not at all brilliant or even good! The price that the teaching centre pays us trainers (15-18Euro) and what we could be charging is too different figures completely.

Will be good to find a partner in crime -and grow english development.

Im going to try private message you with my email Address.

Hope to hear from you
Chantel

 

[englishmarseille]

Hi Chantel, I have only just figured out how to use this forum on my phone. Technology is rapidly overtaking me.
Since we first made contact in April, how have you been coping with finding work in Marseille?
My private business has grown in leaps and bounds. I have reached the point where I am taking reservations from new students to start in my January intake.
Are you still living and working in Marseille? If so, I'd be happy to meet you, exchange contact details and when I get calls in from new clients, I'll gladly refer them on to you.