Working abroad as an OFW (Overseas Filipino Worker) is a big step, and it’s more than just earning money. It’s a chance to build a better future, not just for your family back home, but also for yourself and your long-term career plans. This article will guide you on how to make the most of your OFW experience, turning it into a powerful advantage when you decide to come home.
Planning Before You Go: Setting Yourself Up for Success
Before you even pack your bags, take some time to think about your goals. What do you really want to achieve besides sending money home? Do you want to start a business? Get a better job back in the Philippines? Buy a house? Write down these goals. Having a clear picture of what you want will help you make smarter decisions while you’re working abroad. A 2023 study by the Philippine Statistics Authority shows that many OFWs return home without concrete plans, leading to financial difficulties; don’t let that happen to you.
One concrete step you can take is to create a budget. Know exactly how much you’ll earn, how much you need to send home, and how much you can save. Then, set realistic savings goals. Maybe you want to save a certain percentage of your salary each month, or maybe you want to save up a specific amount for a down payment on a house.
Another important preparation is to brush up on your skills. Are there any courses or training programs you can take online before you leave? Maybe you want to improve your computer skills, learn a new language, or get certified in a specific trade. Upgrading your skills will make you more valuable to employers, both abroad and back home.
Making the Most of Your Time Abroad: Learning and Growing
Your time abroad is a huge opportunity for learning and personal growth. Don’t just think of it as a job; think of it as an investment in your future. Actively seek out opportunities to learn new skills and broaden your horizons. This could mean taking courses, attending workshops, or even just talking to people from different backgrounds.
For example, if you’re working in a restaurant, don’t just focus on your specific job. Try to learn about different aspects of the business, like inventory management, customer service, and marketing. If you’re working in construction, learn about different building techniques and safety procedures. The more you know, the more valuable you’ll become.
Networking is also crucial. Build relationships with your colleagues, supervisors, and other people in your industry. Attend industry events and conferences. Join professional organizations. These connections can be invaluable when you’re looking for new opportunities, both abroad and back home. Consider joining online groups for OFWs in your location; these can offer support and valuable insights. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) also provides various skills and livelihood training to help you prepare for reintegration.
Don’t underestimate the value of language skills. If the language of your host country is different from your own, make an effort to learn it. Even basic conversational skills can open up new opportunities and make your life abroad much easier. There are many free language learning apps and websites available, like Duolingo (although always assess the quality of information before consumption).
Financial Savvy: Saving and Investing for the Future
One of the main reasons people work abroad is to earn more money. But it’s not enough just to earn more; you also need to manage your money wisely. Set a budget, track your expenses, and save as much as you can. A good rule of thumb is to save at least 20% of your income, but the more you can save, the better.
Consider different investment options. Talk to a financial advisor to learn about different ways to grow your money. You might want to invest in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or real estate. Be sure to do your research and understand the risks involved before investing in anything.
Remittance and Savings: Choose a reliable remittance service with good exchange rates. Regularly transfer money to your savings account in the Philippines. Consider opening a high-yield savings account to maximize your earnings. Some banks, like BDO and Metrobank, offer specialized accounts for OFWs.
Avoid unnecessary expenses. Be mindful of your spending habits. Do you really need that expensive gadget? Can you cook your own meals instead of eating out all the time? Small savings can add up quickly over time.
Protect yourself from scams: Be wary of people who offer you too-good-to-be-true investment opportunities. Always do your research and get a second opinion before investing in anything. Unfortunately, OFWs are often targeted by scammers. Staying informed and skeptical is key.
Building Your Resume: Highlighting Your OFW Experience
When you’re ready to return home, it’s important to present your OFW experience in the best possible light. Update your resume to reflect all the skills and experiences you’ve gained while working abroad. Don’t just list your job titles and responsibilities; highlight your accomplishments and quantify your results whenever possible.
For example, instead of saying “Managed customer service operations,” say “Improved customer satisfaction scores by 15% through implementing a new customer service training program.” Instead of saying “Responsible for inventory management,” say “Reduced inventory losses by 10% through implementing a new inventory tracking system.”
Emphasize soft skills like adaptability, cross-cultural communication, and problem-solving. These skills are highly valued by employers in today’s globalized world. Give specific examples of how you’ve demonstrated these skills during your time abroad. For example, “Successfully navigated cultural differences to build strong relationships with colleagues from diverse backgrounds” or “Solved a complex logistical problem that threatened to delay a major project.”
Tailor your resume to the specific jobs you’re applying for. Read the job descriptions carefully and highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position. Use keywords from the job description in your resume and cover letter.
Consider creating a professional online presence. Update your LinkedIn profile and showcase your skills and accomplishments. Join relevant professional groups and participate in online discussions. Use social media to network with potential employers.
Coming Home Prepared: Reintegration and Job Hunting
Returning home after working abroad can be a big adjustment. Be prepared for culture shock, both positive and negative. Things may have changed while you were gone, and it may take some time to get used to being back.
Start your job search well in advance of your return. Use online job boards like JobStreet and LinkedIn, and network with your contacts to find potential leads. Attend job fairs and career events.
Consider taking advantage of reintegration programs offered by OWWA. These programs can provide you with valuable resources and support as you transition back to life in the Philippines. The Integrated Reintegration Program (IRP) provides various services like entrepreneurship training, skills upgrading, and financial literacy seminars.
Be patient and persistent in your job search. It may take some time to find the right job. Don’t get discouraged if you face rejection. Learn from your mistakes and keep applying.
Explore entrepreneurial opportunities. Your time abroad may have given you the skills, experience, and capital to start your own business. Consider your interests, skills, and the needs of your community. A 2019 study by the Asian Development Bank discusses the potential of OFW remittances to fuel entrepreneurship in the Philippines.
Addressing Common Reintegration Challenges
Many OFWs face common challenges when returning home. Here’s how to proactively handle them:
Financial Mismanagement: Often, OFWs feel pressured to share their wealth with family and friends, leading to depletion of savings. Combat this by having honest and open conversations with your family about your financial goals and limitations. Create a clear budget together and stick to it. Consider seeking advice from a financial advisor.
Difficulty Finding Employment: It can be disheartening to find that your international experience isn’t immediately recognized by employers back home. Network aggressively. Attend industry events. Highlight the transferable skills you gained abroad, especially those related to communication, adaptability, and problem-solving. Consider taking bridging courses to update your skills and knowledge relevant to the Philippine job market. Don’t be afraid to start at a lower position if it offers opportunities for growth.
Social Adjustment: Reintegrating socially can be challenging. You might feel disconnected from friends and family, or struggle to adapt to the slower pace of life. Reconnect with old friends and make new ones. Get involved in community activities. Be patient with yourself and allow time to adjust to your new environment.
Feeling Unappreciated: Some OFWs feel that their sacrifices and contributions are not fully appreciated by their families. Express your feelings and needs in a calm and respectful manner. Focus on building stronger communication and understanding within your family. Set realistic expectations for yourself and your family. Remember that open and honest conversation is key to a healthy family relationship.
Specific Skill Sets & Industries: Leveraging Your Experience
The value of your OFW experience varies depending on the industry and skillset you developed. Here’s how to leverage specific areas:
Healthcare: Nurses and caregivers with international experience are in high demand in the Philippines, especially in private hospitals and retirement homes. Highlight your patient care skills, knowledge of international healthcare standards, and experience working with diverse populations. Seek certifications that are recognized both internationally and locally.
Construction: Skilled tradespeople such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters are needed in the Philippines’ booming construction industry. Emphasize any specialized training or certifications you obtained abroad. Showcase your experience with specific building techniques or technologies. Be prepared to demonstrate your skills through practical tests or interviews.
Hospitality: Waiters, chefs, and hotel staff with international experience are highly sought after by the Philippines’ thriving tourism industry. Highlight your customer service skills, knowledge of international cuisines, and ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Consider taking courses in hospitality management or culinary arts to enhance your qualifications.
IT & Technology: The Philippines’ IT industry is rapidly growing, creating opportunities for IT professionals with international experience. Highlight your programming skills, knowledge of different software platforms, and experience working on international projects. Consider obtaining certifications in specific IT areas to demonstrate your expertise.
Long-Term Career Planning: Beyond the Immediate Return
Think beyond your immediate job hunt. What are your long-term career aspirations? Use your OFW experience as a foundation to build a successful and fulfilling career back home.
Continual Learning: Never stop learning. Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in your field. Take online courses, attend workshops, and read industry publications. Continual learning will keep you competitive and relevant in the ever-changing job market.
Mentorship: Seek out mentors who can provide you with guidance and support. Learn from their experiences and tap into their networks. A mentor can help you navigate your career path and achieve your goals.
Giving Back: Consider giving back to your community by mentoring other OFWs or sharing your knowledge and expertise. You can make a positive impact on the lives of others and contribute to the development of your country. Look for organizations that support OFWs and offer your services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best ways to save money while working abroad?
First, create a strict budget. Track your expenses diligently using apps or spreadsheets. Automate your savings by setting up regular transfers to a savings account in the Philippines. Cook your own meals, take advantage of free activities, and avoid unnecessary spending on luxury items. Look for discounts and promotions when shopping.
How can I protect myself from scams targeting OFWs?
Be wary of get-rich-quick schemes and too-good-to-be-true investment opportunities. Always do your research and verify the legitimacy of any investment before handing over your money. Never share your personal or financial information with strangers. Consult with a trusted financial advisor before making any major investment decisions. Report any suspected scams to the authorities.
What skills should I focus on developing while working abroad?
Focus on developing both hard skills (technical skills related to your job) and soft skills (communication, teamwork, problem-solving). Take courses, attend workshops, and seek opportunities to learn new things. Pay attention to the skills that are in demand in the Philippine job market. Language skills, particularly English proficiency, are also highly valuable.
How can I prepare for culture shock when returning home?
Be aware that culture shock is a normal part of the reintegration process. Research current events and trends in the Philippines to get a sense of what has changed. Connect with friends and family before you return. Set realistic expectations and be patient with yourself. Get involved in community activities and find ways to reconnect with your culture.
What resources are available to help OFWs reintegrate into Philippine society?
OWWA provides various reintegration programs, including entrepreneurship training, skills upgrading, and financial literacy seminars. Local government units (LGUs) also offer assistance to returning OFWs. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) provide support services to OFWs and their families. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) offers employment assistance and job placement services.
References
Philippine Statistics Authority. (2023). Statistics on Overseas Filipino Workers.
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). Integrated Reintegration Program.
Asian Development Bank. (2019). Unlocking the Potential of Migrant Remittances for Entrepreneurship in the Philippines.
Ready to take control of your OFW experience and build a brighter future? Don’t wait until you come home to start planning. Start today by setting clear goals, developing your skills, and saving wisely. Use the resources available to you and connect with other OFWs. Remember, your time abroad is an investment in your future. Make the most of it and return home prepared to achieve your dreams. Now is the time to start building your ideal future!
