Coming home after working abroad as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) is a big step, and it’s more than just unpacking your bags. It’s about planning how to use your skills and savings to build a better future right here in the Philippines. This guide will help you prepare for a successful career or business venture back home so you can thrive in your renewed life.
Preparing for the Transition: Before You Come Home
Before you even book your flight, there are a few things you can start doing to make your return smoother. Think of it as laying the groundwork for your future success.
Skill Assessment is Key: What skills have you gained or improved while working abroad? Maybe you’ve become a master chef in a restaurant, a whiz with power tools on a construction site, or a customer service guru in a call center. Identify these skills. Don’t just think about your job title. Consider the tasks you performed daily, the problems you solved, and the things you learned. This skill assessment, according to the International Labour Organization, is crucial for reintegration planning.
For example, if you worked as a caregiver, you likely developed patience, communication skills, and the ability to handle emergencies. These are valuable skills that can be applied to various roles in healthcare, education, or even customer service. Write down everything you’re good at, no matter how small it seems.
Research the Job Market: What kind of jobs are available in the Philippines that match your skills and experience? Websites like JobStreet, LinkedIn, and Kalibrr can give you a good idea of the current job market. Also, think about the location. Are you planning to go back to your hometown, or are you considering moving to a city with more job opportunities? The demand for specific skills might vary from region to region.
Don’t just look at the advertised salaries. Consider the cost of living in different areas too. A higher salary in Manila might not be as beneficial if you’re spending a large portion of it on rent and transportation. Research the average cost of housing, food, transportation, and other necessities in your chosen location.
Build Your Network: Connect with people on LinkedIn, join industry groups on Facebook, and attend online webinars or seminars. Networking is about building relationships and letting people know you’re coming home and looking for opportunities. Sometimes, the best job opportunities aren’t even advertised – they come through word-of-mouth.
Start reaching out to former colleagues, classmates, or relatives who work in the Philippines. Let them know you’ll be returning soon and ask for their advice on the job market or potential connections. Even a simple conversation can open doors you didn’t know existed.
Financial Planning is Essential: This is where your hard-earned savings come in. How much have you saved? How will you use it? A common mistake is spending all your savings on instant gratification. While it’s okay to treat yourself after years of hard work, it’s also important to invest in your future. Create a detailed budget and plan how you’ll allocate your savings. This might include setting aside money for living expenses while you look for a job, investing in a business, or furthering your education.
Consider the costs of returning home, such as airfare, settling-in expenses, and potential medical check-ups. Set aside a dedicated emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses. Before leaving your host country, research the best options for transferring your funds to the Philippines with minimal fees. Banks and remittance services each have their own perks and downsides, so weigh the costs and benefits before choosing the optimal way to transfer your money from abroad.
Landing Back Home: The First Few Weeks
The initial weeks after returning can be overwhelming. Here’s how to make the most of them:
Update Your Resume and Cover Letter: Tailor your resume to the Philippine job market. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the jobs you’re interested in. Use a professional format and proofread carefully for any errors. Have a trusted friend or family member look over your resume to catch any mistakes you might have missed.
Don’t just copy and paste your experience. Customize your resume and cover letter for each job you apply for. Highlight the skills and achievements that directly address the requirements of the position.
Start Applying for Jobs: Don’t wait until you’re desperate to start applying. The sooner you start, the better. Use online job boards, company websites, and your network to find job openings. Be prepared to attend interviews, both in person and online. Practice your interview skills and prepare answers to common interview questions.
Even if you don’t hear back from every application, don’t get discouraged. Job hunting can be a numbers game. The more applications you send out, the higher your chances of landing an interview. Keep refining your resume and cover letter based on the feedback you receive.
Consider Short Courses or Training: If you feel you need to brush up on certain skills or learn new ones, consider taking short courses or training programs. TESDA (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority) offers a variety of affordable courses that can help you improve your employability. Also, look into online courses from reputable platforms like Coursera or Udemy.
For instance, if you want to improve your computer skills, you can take a course on Microsoft Office or web development. If you want to start a business, you can take a course on entrepreneurship or marketing. These courses can give you a competitive edge in the job market and boost your confidence.
Take Advantage of Government Programs: The Philippine government offers various programs to assist returning OFWs, such as livelihood training, financial assistance, and reintegration services. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is a good place to start learning about these programs. Attend OWWA seminars to get more information and connect with other returning OFWs.
Some government agencies provide seed capital for starting a business or training grants for skills development. Take advantage of these opportunities to enhance your skills and pursue your entrepreneurial dreams. Check the DOLE – NRCO (National Reintegration Center for OFWs) website too.
Exploring Entrepreneurial Opportunities
Many OFWs dream of starting their own business after returning home. Here’s how to make that dream a reality:
Identify Your Passion and Skills: What are you passionate about? What are you good at? Starting a business that aligns with your interests and skills will make it more enjoyable and sustainable. Don’t just jump into a trend or a supposedly “profitable” venture. Choose a business that excites you and allows you to use your unique talents. Think about your hobbies, your past work experiences, and the problems you see in your community that you can solve with a business.
Conduct Market Research: Before investing any money, conduct thorough market research. Is there a demand for your product or service? Who are your competitors? What are their strengths and weaknesses? Talk to potential customers, conduct surveys, and analyze market trends. Understand your target market and their needs to create a viable business plan.
For example, if you’re planning to open a restaurant, research the local dining scene. What types of restaurants are already popular? What are the price points? What are the unmet needs of the community? Knowing the answers to these questions will help you position your restaurant for success.
Develop a Business Plan: A business plan is a roadmap for your business. It outlines your goals, strategies, and financial projections. It will help you stay focused and track your progress. It’s also essential if you’re seeking funding from banks or investors. Include comprehensive sections on your business product/service, target market, competitive environment, marketing and sales strategy, management and operations, and how you will finance it.
Your business plan doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s a living document that you can revise and update as your business evolves. But it’s important to have a solid foundation to guide your decisions and keep you on track.
Start Small: Don’t try to do everything at once. Start with a small, manageable business that you can gradually grow. This will allow you to learn the ropes, test your ideas, and minimize your risks. Consider starting with a home-based business or an online business to reduce your overhead costs. As your business grows, you can gradually expand your operations and invest in more infrastructure.
Seek Mentorship: Connect with experienced entrepreneurs who can provide guidance and support. Join business organizations or online communities where you can network with other entrepreneurs and learn from their experiences. A mentor can provide valuable insights, help you avoid common mistakes, and keep you motivated during challenging times.
Investing Wisely for Long-Term Security
Your savings should work for you, not just sit in a bank account. Think long-term financial security and protect your gains in foreign land.
Real Estate: Investing in real estate can be a good way to build long-term wealth. Consider buying a house, a condo, or a piece of land. You can either rent it out to generate income or sell it later for a profit. However, be careful and do your research before investing in real estate. Choose a location with good potential for appreciation and work with a reputable real estate agent, lawyer, or expert.
Stocks and Bonds: Investing in stocks and bonds can provide higher returns than traditional savings accounts. However, it also involves more risk. Diversify your portfolio to minimize your risk and consult with a financial advisor to develop an investment strategy that aligns with your goals and risk tolerance. The Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) is a good place to start learning about investing in the stock market.
Mutual Funds and Unit Investment Trust Funds (UITFs): These are professionally managed investment funds that pool money from multiple investors to invest in a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, and other assets. They can be a good option for investors who don’t have the time or expertise to manage their own investments. However, it’s important to understand the fees and risks involved before investing in mutual funds or UITFs.
Small Business Investment: Invest in your own business or support local startups. This is a higher-risk, higher-reward option that can create jobs and contribute to the local economy. If you choose to invest in a small business, make sure to do your due diligence and understand the risks involved. Conduct thorough research and seek advice from entrepreneurs and financial experts.
Navigating Cultural and Social Readjustment
Coming home isn’t just a physical relocation, it’s a mental and emotional one.
Be Patient with Yourself: It takes time to adjust to a new environment, even if it’s your home country. Don’t expect to feel completely at ease right away. There will be moments of nostalgia, frustration, and uncertainty. Be patient with yourself and allow yourself time to adjust.
Reconnect with Family and Friends: Spend time with your loved ones and rebuild your relationships. Share your experiences abroad and listen to their stories. Reconnect with old friends and make new ones. Strong social connections will help you feel supported and connected to your community.
Embrace Filipino Culture Again: You may have gotten used to a different way of life while working abroad. Now it’s time to re-embrace Filipino culture and traditions. Attend local festivals, participate in community events, and enjoy Filipino food, fiestas, and social gatherings.
Seek Support if Needed: If you’re struggling to adjust to life back home, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Counselors and therapists can provide guidance and support during this transition. There are also support groups for returning OFWs where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Don’t feel ashamed or embarrassed to seek help. It’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
FAQ Section
What are the most in-demand jobs in the Philippines for returning OFWs?
The demand for specific jobs varies depending on location and industry, but some consistently in-demand sectors include BPO (Business Process Outsourcing), healthcare, construction, tourism, and agriculture. Within these sectors, roles like customer service representatives, nurses, engineers, skilled construction workers, chefs, and farmworkers are often sought after.
How can I access financial assistance programs for returning OFWs?
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is the primary agency offering financial assistance to returning OFWs. The DOLE-NRCO (National Reintegration Center for OFWs) also has loan programmes. Visit the OWWA or DOLE-NRCO websites or offices to learn about eligibility requirements, application procedures, and available loan amounts. You may need to attend orientation seminars and submit supporting documents to qualify.
What is the best way to transfer my savings from abroad to the Philippines?
Several options exist for transferring funds, each with its own pros and cons. Banks offer secure transfers but may charge higher fees. Remittance services like WorldRemit, Remitly, and TransferWise often have lower fees and faster transfer times, but their exchange rates might be less favorable. Research and compare the fees, exchange rates, and transfer times of different options before making a decision. Be aware of any transaction limitations.
How can I validate my skills and credentials earned abroad for employment in the Philippines?
The process for validating your skills and credentials depends on your profession. For regulated professions like nursing, engineering, and teaching, you’ll need to have your foreign credentials evaluated by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). The PRC will determine if your qualifications are equivalent to Philippine standards and may require you to take additional exams or training. For non-regulated professions, you can submit your credentials to TESDA for assessment and certification.
What are the common challenges faced by returning OFWs and how can I overcome them?
Common challenges include difficulty finding suitable employment, adapting to a lower salary, cultural and social readjustment, managing finances, and dealing with family expectations. To overcome these challenges, plan your return carefully, update your skills, manage your finances wisely, seek support from family and friends, and be patient with yourself. Consider attending reintegration seminars or joining support groups for returning OFWs.
References
International Labour Organization (ILO)
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE)
National Reintegration Center for OFWs (DOLE-NRCO)
You’ve worked hard overseas, now it’s time to invest in yourself and your future back home! Take the first step today. Review the skills you’ve gained, research job opportunities, explore potential business ventures, and connect with resources that can help you succeed. Your experiences abroad have equipped you with valuable knowledge, skills, and resilience. Use them to build a fulfilling and prosperous life in the Philippines. Don’t just dream about the future you’ve longed for, make it happen. Take action today!
