Coming home after working abroad can be a big change, especially when it comes to finding a job. Many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) only look at the usual job websites, missing out on a whole world of opportunities that aren’t so obvious. These are called the “hidden job market,” and knowing how to find them can make your transition back home much smoother and more successful. This article will help you uncover these hidden gems and turn your OFW experience into a valuable asset in the Philippines.
Understanding the Hidden Job Market
The hidden job market is simply those jobs that are never advertised publicly. It’s a massive part of the job market, often estimated to be as high as 70-80% of all available positions. These jobs are filled through word-of-mouth, networking, internal promotions, direct applications, and even referrals. Think of it this way: when a company needs someone, they might first ask their existing employees if they know anyone suitable before even thinking about posting a job ad online.
So, why does this hidden market exist? Well, it saves companies time and money on advertising. It also allows them to find candidates who are already known and trusted, reducing the risk of a bad hire. For OFWs, tapping into this market is crucial because your international experience might be exactly what some companies are looking for, even if they don’t explicitly say so in a job ad.
Why OFWs Have an Advantage in the Hidden Market
Your time abroad has given you more than just a paycheck. You’ve gained skills and experience that are highly valued by employers back home. Think about these advantages:
- International Experience: You’ve lived and worked in a different culture, which shows adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and a global perspective. This is a major plus for companies that do business internationally.
- Strong Work Ethic: OFWs are known for their dedication and hard work. You’ve likely faced challenges and overcome obstacles, proving your resilience and commitment.
- Specific Skills: Depending on your job abroad, you’ve probably gained specific skills that are in demand in the Philippines. This could be anything from technical expertise to customer service skills.
- Language Skills: If you’ve learned a new language, that’s a huge advantage, especially in industries like tourism, call centers, and business process outsourcing (BPO).
- Problem-Solving: Living and working abroad forces you to become resourceful and solve problems independently. Employers value this ability to think on your feet.
For instance, a former caregiver in Canada might have developed excellent organizational and communication skills. These skills are transferable and could be valuable in roles like personal assistant, customer service representative, or even administrative assistant in a healthcare company in the Philippines. The key is to identify your transferable skills and highlight them in your resume and cover letter.
Unlocking the Hidden Job Market: Practical Strategies for OFWs
Now that you understand the value of the hidden job market, let’s get into the practical strategies you can use to find these opportunities:
1. Networking is Your Best Friend
Networking is the single most important tool for accessing the hidden job market. It’s all about building relationships and letting people know you’re looking for a job. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Reconnect with Your Network: Start with people you already know: family, friends, former colleagues, schoolmates. Let them know you’re back in the Philippines and looking for work. Even if they don’t have a job for you directly, they might know someone who does.
- Attend Industry Events: Go to conferences, seminars, and workshops related to your field. These events are a great way to meet people in the industry and learn about new opportunities. Look for events organized by professional organizations or industry associations.
- Join Online Communities: Facebook groups, LinkedIn groups, and other online forums related to your profession are great places to connect with other professionals. Participate in discussions, share your expertise, and let people know you’re looking for a job. Consider joining OFW-focused groups as well; many share leads on opportunities for returning workers.
- Informational Interviews: Reach out to people who work in companies you’re interested in and ask for an informational interview. This is not a job interview; it’s a chance to learn more about the company and the industry. Ask them about their career path, the challenges they face, and any advice they have for someone looking to enter the field.
Remember, networking is not just about asking for favors. It’s about building genuine relationships and offering value to others. Be prepared to share your expertise and help others in return.
2. Leverage Your LinkedIn Profile
LinkedIn is a powerful tool for networking and job searching. Make sure your profile is up-to-date and optimized for search. Here’s how:
- Create a Compelling Headline: Your headline is the first thing people see when they find your profile. Don’t just use your current job title. Use keywords that describe your skills and experience. For example, instead of “Caregiver,” try “Experienced Caregiver | Compassionate | Patient | Skilled in Elderly Care.”
- Write a Strong Summary: Your summary is your chance to tell your story and highlight your key accomplishments. Focus on your transferable skills and how your experience abroad has prepared you for a job in the Philippines.
- Showcase Your Experience: Describe your responsibilities and accomplishments in detail. Use action verbs and quantifiable results whenever possible. For example, instead of “Responsible for customer service,” try “Provided customer service to over 100 clients per day, resulting in a 95% customer satisfaction rating.”
- Get Recommendations: Ask former colleagues, supervisors, and clients to write recommendations for you. These recommendations add credibility to your profile.
- Engage Actively: Share articles, comment on posts, and join relevant groups to stay active on LinkedIn. The more active you are, the more visible you will be to potential employers.
Many companies use LinkedIn to search for candidates, even for jobs that aren’t advertised publicly. A well-optimized LinkedIn profile can significantly increase your chances of being found.
3. Direct Applications: Don’t Wait for Job Ads
Don’t limit yourself to applying for jobs that are advertised online. Identify companies that you’re interested in and apply directly, even if they don’t have any open positions listed. This shows initiative and demonstrates your genuine interest in the company.
- Research Target Companies: Identify companies that are in your field or that align with your interests and values. Look for companies that are growing, innovative, or have a strong reputation.
- Find the Right Contact Person: Try to find the name and contact information of the hiring manager or someone in the HR department. You can often find this information on the company’s website or on LinkedIn.
- Craft a Customized Cover Letter: Don’t use a generic cover letter. Tailor your cover letter to each company, highlighting your skills and experience that are relevant to their specific needs. Explain why you’re interested in working for their company and how you can contribute to their success.
- Follow Up: If you don’t hear back within a week or two, follow up with a polite email or phone call. This shows that you’re still interested and keeps your application top of mind.
Remember, even if there isn’t a job opening right now, your application might be kept on file for future opportunities. And even if they don’t have a job for you, they might know someone who does.
4. Tailor Your Resume to the Philippine Job Market
While your international experience is valuable, it’s important to tailor your resume to the specific requirements of the Philippine job market. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Use Philippine-Specific Formatting: Research common resume formats in the Philippines and adapt your resume accordingly. This might include using a chronological format or including a summary of your skills and experience at the top.
- Highlight Relevant Skills: Focus on the skills and experience that are most relevant to the jobs you’re applying for. Don’t include irrelevant information.
- Quantify Your Achievements: Use numbers and data to demonstrate your accomplishments. For example, instead of “Improved customer satisfaction,” try “Improved customer satisfaction by 15% in six months.”
- Include Your Education and Training: List your educational qualifications and any relevant training courses or certifications you’ve completed.
- Proofread Carefully: Make sure your resume is free of errors in grammar and spelling. Ask a friend or family member to proofread it for you before you submit it.
Consider getting your resume professionally written or reviewed by a career counselor who is familiar with the Philippine job market. The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) may also offer resources or referrals for career counseling.
5. Consider Returning to Your Previous Company
Don’t overlook the possibility of returning to your previous company in the Philippines. They already know your skills and work ethic, and they might be happy to have you back, especially with your new international experience.
- Reach Out to Your Former Manager: Contact your former manager and let them know you’re back in the Philippines. Ask if there are any opportunities at the company.
- Highlight Your New Skills: Emphasize the skills and experience you’ve gained while working abroad and how they can benefit the company.
- Be Open to Different Roles: Even if there isn’t a direct match for your previous role, be open to considering other positions within the company.
- Negotiate Your Salary: Don’t be afraid to negotiate your salary based on your experience and the current market rate.
Returning to your previous company can be a great way to ease back into the Philippine job market and build on your existing experience.
6. Explore Entrepreneurial Opportunities
Consider using your skills and experience to start your own business in the Philippines. Your time abroad might have given you new ideas, contacts, or capital that you can use to launch a successful venture.
- Identify a Need: Look for a gap in the market or a problem that you can solve with your skills and experience.
- Develop a Business Plan: Create a detailed business plan that outlines your goals, strategies, and financial projections.
- Seek Funding: Explore different funding options, such as loans, grants, or investments.
- Network with Other Entrepreneurs: Connect with other entrepreneurs in your industry and learn from their experiences.
- Start Small: Don’t try to do too much too soon. Start small and gradually scale up your business as you grow.
The Philippine government offers various programs and resources to support entrepreneurs, particularly returning OFWs. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is a great place to start researching available support.
Overcoming Challenges Faced by Returning OFWs
Finding a job back home isn’t always easy. Here are some common challenges OFWs face and how to overcome them:
- Culture Shock: Readjusting to life in the Philippines after living abroad can be a challenge. Be patient with yourself and allow time to adjust.
- Lower Salary Expectations: Salaries in the Philippines might be lower than what you were earning abroad. Be realistic about your salary expectations and be prepared to negotiate. Research average salaries for similar roles in your field.
- Lack of Local Network: If you’ve been away for a long time, you might have lost touch with your professional network. Make an effort to reconnect with people and build new relationships.
- Misunderstanding of Your Skills: Employers might not fully understand the value of your international experience. Be prepared to explain how your skills and experience are relevant to the job.
- Bureaucracy: Dealing with government agencies and paperwork can be frustrating. Be patient and persistent, and seek help from others who have gone through the process.
Remember, you’re not alone. Many OFWs face similar challenges. Connect with other returning OFWs for support and advice. There are numerous online and offline communities dedicated to helping OFWs reintegrate back into Philippine society.
Skills Enhancement and Training
Sometimes, your skills might need a little updating to match the current demands of the Philippine job market. Don’t hesitate to invest in skills enhancement and training programs.
- Identify Skill Gaps: Assess your skills and identify any areas where you need to improve.
- Enroll in Training Programs: Look for training programs offered by reputable institutions or online platforms.
- Consider Online Courses: Online courses are a convenient and affordable way to learn new skills and stay up-to-date with industry trends.
- Attend Workshops and Seminars: Workshops and seminars are great opportunities to learn from experts and network with other professionals.
- Get Certified: Obtaining relevant certifications can demonstrate your skills and expertise to potential employers.
For example, if you’re interested in working in the BPO industry, consider taking a training course in call center skills or customer service. If you’re interested in working in the IT industry, consider getting certified in a specific programming language or technology.
Negotiating Your Salary and Benefits
Don’t be afraid to negotiate your salary and benefits when you receive a job offer. Your international experience and skills add value, and you should be compensated accordingly.
- Research Market Rates: Find out the average salary for similar roles in your field. Use online salary calculators and talk to people in your network.
- Know Your Worth: Be confident in your skills and experience. Highlight your accomplishments and how you can contribute to the company.
- Be Prepared to Walk Away: Don’t be afraid to turn down a job offer if it doesn’t meet your needs. There are other opportunities out there.
- Negotiate Non-Salary Benefits: If you can’t get a higher salary, try negotiating other benefits, such as health insurance, vacation time, or professional development opportunities.
- Get It in Writing: Make sure all agreements are in writing before you accept the job offer.
Remember, negotiating is a skill. Practice your negotiation skills with friends or family members before you go into a real negotiation. The key is to be confident, respectful, and prepared to compromise.
The Role of Government Agencies
Several government agencies in the Philippines offer assistance to returning OFWs to help them reintegrate back into the country. These agencies can provide information, resources, and support for finding jobs, starting businesses, and accessing financial assistance.
- Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA): OWWA provides various programs and services to OFWs, including livelihood training, financial assistance, and repatriation assistance.
- Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA): POEA regulates the recruitment and deployment of OFWs and provides information on job opportunities abroad.
- Department of Trade and Industry (DTI): DTI offers programs and services to support entrepreneurs, including training, mentoring, and access to financing.
- Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA): TESDA provides technical and vocational training courses to help Filipinos acquire skills that are in demand in the job market.
Take advantage of the resources and support offered by these government agencies to make your transition back to the Philippines smoother and more successful.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if my skills from abroad don’t directly translate to jobs in the Philippines?
A: Focus on your transferable skills. Think about the skills you used in your previous job that can be applied to different roles. For example, customer service skills, communication skills, organizational skills, and problem-solving skills are valuable in many industries. Highlight these skills in your resume and cover letter, and explain how they can benefit the employer.
Q: How do I deal with employers who don’t understand my international experience?
A: Be prepared to educate them. Explain how your experience abroad has made you a more valuable employee. Highlight your adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and global perspective. Give specific examples of how you’ve overcome challenges and achieved results in your previous roles. Emphasize the skills you’ve gained that are relevant to the job and how they can benefit the company.
Q: Is it worth it to take a lower-paying job in the Philippines compared to what I earned abroad?
A: This depends on your individual circumstances and priorities. Consider your cost of living in the Philippines, your family situation, and your long-term career goals. While the salary might be lower, the cost of living might also be lower. If the job offers good opportunities for growth and advancement, it might be worth it to start at a lower salary and work your way up. Also, consider the value of being closer to your family and friends.
Q: What if I’ve been away from the Philippines for many years? How do I catch up with the current job market?
A: Research, network, and upskill. Spend time researching the current trends and demands of the Philippine job market. Attend industry events, join online communities, and talk to people in your network. Identify any skill gaps and enroll in training programs or online courses to update your skills. Focus on learning about new technologies, software, and processes that are commonly used in your industry.
Q: How important is speaking Tagalog in the Philippine job market?
A: While English is widely used in many industries, particularly in BPOs and multinational companies, being able to speak Tagalog is usually an advantage and often a requirement, especially for roles that involve direct interaction with local customers or colleagues. If you’ve been away for a long time and your Tagalog is rusty, consider taking a refresher course.
Call to Action
Don’t let your hard-earned experience overseas go to waste! The hidden job market in the Philippines is teeming with opportunities perfect for returning OFWs like you. Start networking today, optimize your online presence, and directly approach companies that pique your interest. Remember, your international experience isn’t just a line on your resume; it’s a valuable asset. Embrace the challenge, stay persistent, and unlock the rewarding career you deserve back home. Your skills are needed, your experience is valued, and your success story is waiting to be written!
References
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA)
