Coming home after working abroad isn’t always as easy as it sounds. Many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) face challenges readjusting to life back in the Philippines, figuring out what to do next with their careers and finances. This article will walk you through a roadmap to help make your reintegration smooth and successful, focusing on practical steps and readily available resources.
Knowing Yourself: The Foundation of Your Career Roadmap
Before you even pack your bags for good, spend some time reflecting on your work experience, skills, and personal goals. Ask yourself, “What have I learned abroad?” Don’t just think about your official job duties. Consider the soft skills you’ve gained – things like communication, problem-solving, and adaptability. These are incredibly valuable in any career. Also, what did you enjoy most/least about your work abroad? What kind of lifestyle do you envision for yourself back home?
For example, Maria worked as a caregiver in Italy for ten years. While her formal job was caring for an elderly woman, she also learned how to manage a household, budget effectively, and navigate a foreign culture. These skills, combined with her natural caring nature, could be translated into various career paths back home, from starting a small home care business to working as a personal assistant.
Identifying Your Skills and Interests
Create a list of all your skills – both hard skills (like operating machinery or using specific software) and soft skills (like communication or teamwork). Think about your interests and passions. What do you genuinely enjoy doing? Is there something you’ve always wanted to learn? This exploration will help you identify potential career paths that align with your strengths and interests.
Perhaps you worked as a construction worker in Saudi Arabia and became skilled at operating heavy machinery. Back home, you could consider working for a construction company or even starting your own small business renting out equipment. Or, maybe you discovered a passion for photography while exploring your host country during your days off. You could pursue photography as a hobby, a side hustle, or even a full-time career.
Assessing Your Finances and Setting Realistic Goals
Be completely honest with yourself about your financial situation. How much savings do you have? What are your debts? What are your monthly expenses likely to be back home? Creating a realistic budget will help you avoid financial stress and make informed decisions about your career. Set both short-term and long-term financial goals. Do you want to buy a house, start a business, or simply save for retirement?
Remember, it’s okay to start small. Many successful OFWs began their reintegration journey by taking on part-time jobs or starting small businesses on the side while exploring other opportunities. The key is to be patient, disciplined, and proactive in managing your finances.
Exploring Career Options Back Home
Now that you have a better understanding of yourself and your finances, it’s time to explore the available career options. Don’t limit yourself to what you already know. Be open to new possibilities and consider different industries and types of work. Remember that the Philippine job market may be different to what you have become accustom to.
Leveraging Your Overseas Experience
Your overseas experience is a valuable asset. Emphasize the skills and knowledge you gained while working abroad on your resume and during job interviews. Highlight your adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and ability to work independently. These qualities are highly sought after by many employers. Consider seeking out multinational companies operating in the Philippines that may value your international experience.
For instance, if you worked in customer service abroad, you could apply for customer service positions in call centers or business process outsourcing (BPO) companies in the Philippines. The Philippines remains one of the leading destinations for call centers globally, providing you plenty of opportunities.
Entrepreneurship: Building Your Own Business From Scratch
Many OFWs dream of starting their own business. If you have a solid business idea and the necessary capital, entrepreneurship can be a rewarding career path. Consider starting a business that utilizes your skills and knowledge gained abroad. For example, if you worked as a chef in a restaurant, you could open your own small eatery or catering service.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) offers various programs and resources to help aspiring entrepreneurs. Their programs include seminars on business planning, marketing, and financial management. Seek their guidance and avail yourself of their resources to increase your chances of success. Be sure to create a comprehensive business plan before diving it.
Upskilling and Reskilling: Bridging the Gap
Sometimes, the skills you gained while working abroad may not be directly transferable to the Philippine job market. In this case, consider upskilling or reskilling. Upskilling means enhancing your existing skills, while reskilling means learning new skills. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) offers a wide range of vocational training programs that can help you acquire new skills and improve your employability. Learn new software, take an online course, or get certified in a specific field.
Suppose you worked as a factory worker and want to transition into a different industry. You could take a TESDA course in computer programming, web design, or digital marketing. These skills are in high demand in the Philippines, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) offers regular updates on employment and labor market trends.
Creating Your Career Roadmap
A career roadmap is a tool that helps you plan your career path, set goals, and track your progress. It’s a personalized guide that outlines the steps you need to take to achieve your career aspirations. Your career roadmap should have a clear beginning, middle and end, but be flexible to allow for changes that may happen.
Setting Short-Term and Long-Term Goals
Start by setting both short-term and long-term goals that are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound). Your short-term goals should be achievable within the next few months, while your long-term goals could span several years. Remember, your goals don’t need to be rigid. They only serve as a guide for what you want to achieve.
For example, a short-term goal could be to update your resume and start applying for jobs in your field. A long-term goal could be to start your own business within five years. Break down your long-term goals into smaller, more manageable steps.
Developing Your Network and Building Connections
Networking is crucial for career success. Attend job fairs, industry events, and community gatherings. Connect with people who work in your field of interest. Join professional organizations and online groups. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people and ask for advice or mentorship. Your kabayan network can be a valuable resource for job leads, business opportunities, and general support.
Let your friends and family know you’re looking for a job or starting a business. Word-of-mouth can be a powerful tool. Attend alumni events from your school overseas. These events are a great way to connect with other professionals in your field.
Taking Action and Staying Persistent
Once you have a roadmap, take action. Don’t wait for the perfect opportunity to come along – create your own. Apply for jobs, attend training programs, start working on your business plan, and network with people. Be patient, persistent, and don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Rejection is a normal part of the job search process. Learn from your mistakes and keep moving forward.
Remember to celebrate your successes along the way, no matter how small. This will help you stay motivated and focused on your goals. Your roadmap serves as the vehicle for you to progress, but you are the driver that dictates when or how it is used.
Support Systems for OFWs
You don’t have to face the reintegration challenge alone. There are many support systems available to OFWs, both from the government and from non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Government Programs and Services
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) provides various programs and services for OFWs, including livelihood training, financial assistance, and repatriation assistance. OWWA can also connect you with job counselors who can help you set up your reintegration programs. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) also offers programs to assist returning OFWs with job placement and entrepreneurship training. Visit the DOLE website to learn more about their programs and services. The National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO) is another government agency that provides assistance to returning OFWs, including counseling, training, and financial assistance.
One of the key programs that both DOLE and OWWA provide is the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS). PDOS provides valuable information about working and living abroad, as well as tips for staying safe and healthy. Be sure to attend this seminar before you leave for your overseas job.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Support Groups
Many NGOs and support groups offer assistance to OFWs and their families. These organizations provide counseling, training, and financial assistance. They also offer a sense of community and support. Search for OFW support groups in social media to attend. Connecting with other OFWs will give you an avenue to get advice from people who have been in the same situation as you.
Examples of NGOs include the Blas F. Ople Policy Center and Training Institute, which provides legal assistance and advocacy for OFWs. There are also faith-based organizations that offer support to OFWs and their families.
Addressing Common Reintegration Challenges
Reintegrating into Philippine society after working abroad can be challenging. Common challenges include financial adjustment, cultural differences, and difficulty finding suitable employment. Knowing about these challenges and planning for them will put you in a better place to handle these issues.
Financial Management and Debt
One of the biggest challenges for returning OFWs is managing their finances. Many OFWs struggle with debt, or have difficulty saving money. Create a budget that includes all your expenses and income. Prioritize paying off debt and building an emergency fund. Invest in financial literacy education to build good financial habits. Consult with a financial advisor to create a long-term financial plan.
Avoid scams and investment schemes that promise high returns with little risk. Take your time when investing and seek advice from trusted sources.
Cultural Readjustment and Reverse Culture Shock
You may experience reverse culture shock when you return home. Things may have changed since you left, and you may find it difficult to readjust to the Philippine culture. Be patient with yourself and give yourself time to adjust. Connect with friends and family who can provide support. Take part in community activities and events to reintegrate into society. Engage with the younger generation and catch up with the current culture.
Consider talking to a therapist or counselor if you’re having difficulty coping with reverse culture shock. These professionals can provide guidance on how to navigate the emotional challenges that you may be encountering.
Finding Meaningful Employment
Finding a job that matches your skills and experience can be challenging, especially if you have been away from the Philippine job market for a long time. Update your resume and highlight your overseas experience. Network with people in your field of interest. Be prepared to start at a lower salary than what you earned abroad. Be open to different types of work and industries.
Don’t get discouraged by rejections. The Philippine job market can be competitive. Keep applying for jobs and networking with people. Explore alternative career paths like entrepreneurship or freelancing.
Staying Positive and Motivated
Reintegration can be a long and challenging process, but it’s important to stay positive and motivated. Focus on your goals and celebrate your successes. Surround yourself with supportive people and never give up on your dreams.
Maintain a Positive Mindset
Cultivate a positive attitude and focus on the opportunities rather than the challenges. Practice gratitude and appreciate the good things in your life. Engage in activities that make you happy and fulfilled. Take care of your physical and mental health. Get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly. Prioritize your overall well-being.
Seek Support from Others
Connect with other OFWs and share your experiences. Join support groups and participate in community activities. Talk to your family and friends about the challenges you’re facing. Seek professional help if you need it. There are many resources available to support you on your reintegration journey.
FAQ Section
What are the first steps I should take when I return to the Philippines?
Start by updating your resume, connecting with your network, exploring career options, and identifying opportunities for skills development. Don’t forget to relax and enjoy being back home with your loved ones.
How can I find a job that matches my skills and experience after working abroad?
Highlight your overseas experience on your resume, network with people in your field, and be open to different types of work and industries. Consider upskilling or reskilling to acquire new skills aligned with the Philippine job market. Check online job portals such as JobStreet and LinkedIn.
What government programs are available for returning OFWs?
OWWA and DOLE offer various programs and services, including livelihood training, financial assistance, and job placement assistance. Visit their websites or offices to learn more about their programs and how to apply.
How can I manage my finances and avoid debt after working abroad?
Create a budget, prioritize paying off debt, build an emergency fund, and invest in financial literacy education. Be wary of scams and investment schemes that promise high returns with little risk. It is also recommended that you diversify your inventsments and avoid putting them all in one basket.
How can I cope with reverse culture shock when I return home?
Be patient with yourself, connect with friends and family, take part in community activities, and consider talking to a therapist or counselor if you’re having difficulty adjusting. Be understanding of culture changes and remember that things might not be the same as when you left the country.
What if I want to start my own business?
Develop a business plan, seek guidance from DTI, start small, and learn from your mistakes. You can also seek mentorship from other business owners. Before entering the real world, you can use online and offline sources to simulate a business environment.
How important is networking when seeking employment after working abroad?
Networking is crucial. Attend job fairs, industry events, and community gatherings. Connect with professionals online, let your friends and family know of your intentions, and leverage alumni networks. Ask past co-workers from abroad for advice.
References
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)
Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)
Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)
Blas F. Ople Policy Center and Training Institute
BusinessWorld Online
Your journey back home is an exciting new chapter waiting to be written. The road ahead might have its bumps, but with careful planning, the right resources, and a dash of perseverance, you can build a fulfilling career and a comfortable life back in the Philippines. Don’t just dream about a successful reintegration – make it happen! Start your career roadmap today and take that first step towards a brighter future. Good luck!
