Podcast: Eikaiwa Teacher to Eikaiwa CEO

In my budget presentation and recent articles I talked about being able to take time off. I’m currently away in England for two weeks attending the London Book Fair and visiting family. It’s great to be able do that at the busiest time of the year and know my business...

Running a School: What business are you in?

The answer to this question may seem obvious. I teach English. But what exactly does that mean? Allow me to illustrate with some famous examples. In 1900 the CEO of Cunard probably would have answered the same question by saying he was in the trans-Atlantic shipping...

Running an English School: Spreading the Word

I have slept on the sofa in the office, and before that on the floor of the school, to be up early to hand out flyers at the station. I’m not a morning person and don’t find this easy. Once out, a positive attitude can carry you through the duller moments and the many...

Running Your Own English School: Getting Help

In 1998 I wasn’t sure how long I would stay in Japan, or what direction I would go, with or without my new school. Either way, I had a busy year. As soon as I started advertising, the phone rang often and over 80% of prospective students signed up. I also had...