Going abroad to work is a big step. It’s a chance to earn more money, see the world, and learn new things. But what happens when you come home? How do you turn your OFW experience into a great career back in the Philippines? This article will show you how to make the most of your time overseas, so you can build a brighter future for yourself and your family.
Understanding the Skills You Gain as an OFW
Working overseas isn’t just about the paycheck. It’s also a huge learning opportunity. You’re developing skills that employers in the Philippines are looking for. It’s important to recognize and understand what these skills are.
Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills
First, let’s talk about hard skills. These are the specific abilities you learn on the job. For example, if you worked as a construction worker in Saudi Arabia, you probably became skilled in using different tools, reading blueprints, and following safety procedures. A nurse in the UK would have sharpened their medical knowledge, learned new treatment protocols, and become proficient in using advanced medical equipment. These are all valuable hard skills.
Then there are soft skills. These are the personal qualities and interpersonal skills that make you a good employee and a good team member. As an OFW, you’re likely developing many soft skills without even realizing it. Dealing with different cultures and languages, for example, improves your communication skills and teaches you to be more patient and understanding. Working in a fast-paced environment builds your problem-solving abilities and makes you more adaptable. Missing your family and friends teaches you resilience and self-discipline. These soft skills are just as important as hard skills, and they can set you apart from other job applicants.
Identifying Your Transferable Skills
Transferable skills are those that can be used in different jobs and industries. They’re like the building blocks that can be rearranged to create different structures. For example, if you worked as a housekeeper in Singapore, you might think your only skill is cleaning. But think about it: you also learned how to manage your time efficiently, organize tasks, follow instructions carefully, and communicate with your employer. These skills can be transferred to many other jobs, such as an office assistant, a customer service representative, or even a small business owner. As an OFW, the International Labour Organization (ILO) emphasizes the importance of recognizing and developing these skills for better employment prospects upon returning home.
Here’s another example: imagine you worked as a waiter in Dubai. You learned how to take orders, handle payments, deal with customer complaints, and work under pressure. These skills can be transferred to jobs in the hospitality industry, such as a hotel receptionist, a restaurant manager, or even a travel agent. They are also valuable in customer service roles in other industries. The key is to identify the underlying skills you’ve gained and to think about how they can be applied in different contexts.
Documenting Your Skills and Experience
Once you’ve identified your skills, you need to document them. This means writing them down in a way that makes sense to potential employers. Don’t just assume that they’ll understand what you did overseas. You need to explain it clearly and concisely.
Updating Your Resume or CV
Your resume or CV is your first impression. It’s your chance to show employers why you’re the right person for the job. So, it’s important to update it regularly and to make sure it highlights your skills and experience as an OFW.
Start by creating a separate section for your overseas employment. List the name of your employer, the dates you worked there, and your job title. Then, describe your responsibilities and accomplishments in detail. Use action verbs to show what you did. For example, instead of saying “Responsible for cleaning rooms,” say “Cleaned an average of 15 rooms per day, ensuring high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.” Instead of saying “Handled customer complaints,” say “Resolved customer complaints efficiently and effectively, resulting in improved customer satisfaction.”
Also, be sure to highlight your soft skills. Don’t just list them; provide examples of how you used them in your job. For example, instead of saying “Good communication skills,” say “Communicated effectively with colleagues and customers from diverse cultural backgrounds, resolving conflicts and building positive relationships.” Make sure your resume is properly formatted and easy to read. Use clear headings, bullet points, and a professional font. Proofread it carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling. You can find many free resume templates online. A resume builder like Canva can also help you make your resume more appealing.
Creating a Portfolio
A portfolio is a collection of your best work. It’s a way to show potential employers what you’re capable of. If you worked in a creative field, such as graphic design, photography, or writing, a portfolio is essential. But even if you worked in a non-creative field, you can still create a portfolio to showcase your skills.
For example, if you worked as a construction worker, you can include photos of the projects you worked on. If you worked as a nurse, you can include copies of your certifications and training records. If you worked as a housekeeper, you can include letters of recommendation from your employers. Your portfolio should be well-organized and easy to navigate. It should also be tailored to the specific jobs you’re applying for. If you are planning to study, and you have relevant OFW work data, consider it like a portfolio to share.
Collecting Certificates and Training Records
Any certificates or training records you earned overseas are valuable assets. They prove that you have the skills and knowledge to do the job. So, be sure to collect them and keep them in a safe place.
If you lost your certificates, try contacting the training institutions or employers who issued them. They may be able to provide you with copies. You can also have your overseas qualifications assessed and recognized by Philippine authorities. This will make it easier for employers to understand the value of your skills and experience. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) offers accreditation programs that can help recognize your acquired competencies.
Networking and Job Searching
Landing a good job requires networking and job searching skills. Knowing where to look and who to connect with can significantly improve your chances of success.
Leveraging Your OFW Network
Your fellow OFWs are a valuable resource. They can provide you with information about job opportunities, introduce you to potential employers, and offer support and encouragement. Stay in touch with your OFW friends and colleagues. Attend OFW gatherings and events. Join online OFW communities and forums on places like Facebook or Reddit. Share your skills and experience with others, and ask for their help in return. Remember, networking is a two-way street.
Using Online Job Platforms
There are many online job platforms that can help you find work in the Philippines. Some of the most popular include JobStreet, LinkedIn, and Kalibrr. Create a profile on these platforms and upload your resume or CV. Search for jobs that match your skills and experience. Apply for jobs that you’re interested in. Be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to each job you apply for. Don’t just send out the same generic application to everyone. Highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the specific job.
Attending Job Fairs and Recruitment Events
Job fairs and recruitment events are a great way to meet potential employers face-to-face. They give you the opportunity to ask questions, network with other job seekers, and learn about different companies and industries. Check local newspapers, websites, and social media for announcements of job fairs and recruitment events in your area. Prepare your resume and practice your elevator pitch. Dress professionally and make a good impression.
Addressing Challenges and Building Confidence
Returning to the Philippines after working overseas can be challenging. You may face obstacles such as adjusting to a lower salary, dealing with culture shock, or feeling disconnected from your family and friends. It’s important to be prepared for these challenges and to have a plan for overcoming them.
Dealing with Lower Salaries
One of the biggest challenges for returning OFWs is adjusting to a lower salary. Salaries in the Philippines are generally lower than those in developed countries. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re used to earning a high income. However, it’s important to remember that the cost of living in the Philippines is also lower. You may not need to earn as much to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Also, consider the benefits of working in the Philippines, such as being closer to your family and friends, having a more relaxed pace of life, and contributing to your country’s economy. You can also negotiate your salary by highlighting your skills and experience and by emphasizing the value you can bring to the company. Research the average salary for similar positions in your industry and use that as a starting point for your negotiations.
Managing Expectations
It’s important to have realistic expectations about your job search. Don’t expect to find your dream job overnight. It may take time and effort to find the right opportunity. Be patient and persistent. Don’t give up easily. Keep applying for jobs, keep networking, and keep learning new skills. Also, be open to different types of jobs and industries. You may find that your skills and experience are more valuable in a different field than you expected. Be willing to try new things and to step outside of your comfort zone. Remember that every job is a learning opportunity, and that even a temporary job can help you gain valuable experience and build your network.
Building Your Confidence
Working overseas can be a challenging experience. It can test your limits and push you to grow as a person. As a result, you may feel more confident and capable than ever before. However, you may also feel insecure or uncertain about your future. It’s important to build your confidence and to believe in yourself. Remind yourself of your accomplishments and the challenges you’ve overcome. Focus on your strengths and the skills you’ve developed. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people. Set realistic goals and celebrate your successes along the way. Remember that you have valuable skills and experience to offer, and that you deserve to find a job that you love.
Continuous Learning and Upskilling
The job market is constantly evolving, so it’s important to keep learning and upskilling throughout your career. Enroll in online courses, attend workshops, or pursue further education. Stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in your industry. Learn new skills that are in demand by employers. This will make you more competitive in the job market and increase your earning potential. TESDA also offers various trainings for skills upgrading. Continuous learning also keeps your mind sharp and helps you feel more engaged and fulfilled in your work.
Real-Life Examples
To illustrate these points, let’s look at some real-life examples of OFWs who have successfully translated their skills into successful careers back in the Philippines.
Example 1: Maria worked as a caregiver in Hong Kong for 10 years. When she returned to the Philippines, she used her experience to get a job as a home health aide for a senior citizen. She also took a course in basic first aid and CPR to improve her skills. Her patience and compassion, developed while working abroad, made her an excellent caregiver, and she was soon earning a good income.
Example 2: Jose worked as a construction worker in the Middle East for 5 years. When he returned to the Philippines, he used his skills to start his own construction business. He used his savings from his overseas employment to buy equipment and supplies. His hard work and dedication paid off, and his business thrived. He now employs several other OFWs and is contributing to his community’s development.
Example 3: Anna worked as a waitress in Dubai for 3 years. When she returned to the Philippines, she used her customer service skills to get a job as a call center agent. She quickly rose through the ranks and became a team leader. Her ability to communicate effectively with people from different cultures was a valuable asset in her job.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about translating your OFW skills into a successful career:
What if my overseas experience is not directly related to the jobs I’m applying for in the Philippines?
Even if your overseas experience doesn’t seem directly related, focus on the transferable skills you gained. Highlight your communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and time management skills. Explain how these skills can benefit the employer. For example, if you worked as a retail associate, you can highlight your experiences in customer interaction.
How do I deal with employers who undervalue my OFW experience?
Be confident in the value you bring. Emphasize the international exposure, cross-cultural communication, and adaptability you’ve gained. Provide specific examples of how your experiences have equipped you to handle challenges and contribute to the company’s success. Consider obtaining certifications or additional training that complement your OFW experience, to enhance your credibility.
Where can I find resources to help me with my job search?
Several organizations and government agencies offer resources for returning OFWs. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) provides livelihood programs, training, and job placement assistance. TESDA offers skills training and certification programs. The Public Employment Service Office (PESO) helps connect job seekers with employers. Use online job portals and attend job fairs to expand your network.
How important is it to learn the local language if I worked in a country where I didn’t speak the language fluently?
Even if you didn’t become fluent, demonstrating effort to learn the local language is a valuable asset. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively across cultures. Even basic language skills show adaptability and a willingness to learn, and contribute to good customer relations.
Call to Action
Your time as an OFW is a valuable asset. Don’t let your skills and experience go to waste. Take the time to identify your transferable skills, document your accomplishments, and network with potential employers. Be confident in your abilities, and don’t be afraid to pursue your dreams. With hard work and determination, you can build a fulfilling and successful career back in the Philippines. Start today, and take control of your future!
References
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
International Labour Organization (ILO)
Canva
JobStreet
LinkedIn
Kalibrr
Public Employment Service Office (PESO)
