Coming home after working abroad as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) can be a mix of excitement and uncertainty. You’re happy to be back with your loved ones, but you might also be wondering what’s next for your career. This article will give you practical tips and strategies to make your move back home smoother and help you find a fulfilling job or start your own business.
Understanding the Challenges of Transition
It’s important, first, to admit that transitioning back home is not always easy. One common issue is the shift in lifestyle. You might be used to a certain standard of living abroad, and adjusting to local salaries and living costs can be tough. The culture shock can also be reversed! You might find that things have changed while you were away, and it takes time to get used to the new normal. Maintaining the gains from your hard-earned money is crucial when you go back home. A 2020 study, for instance, indicated that a substantial amount of retirement savings are prematurely used within the first two years of retirement, which highlights the urgency to handle the financial component well.
For example, imagine you were working as a nurse in the UK, earning a good salary and enjoying its healthcare system. Coming back to the Philippines, you might face lower pay, different working conditions, and a different healthcare infrastructure. This can be a big adjustment, and it’s important to be prepared for it.
Preparing Before You Return
The best way to make your transition smoother is to start preparing before you even return. Think about it as planning a vacation. The earlier you start planning, packing, and doing your bookings, the higher chances are you will have a seamless journey.
Assess Your Skills and Experience
While working abroad, you’ve likely gained new skills and experiences that are valuable in the Philippines. Take some time to reflect on what you’ve learned. Did you become fluent in another language? Did you gain experience in a specific industry or job role? Did you learn how to manage a team? Write down all your skills and experiences, even the ones that seem small or unimportant. These will be useful when you start looking for a job or starting a business.
Let’s say you worked as a caregiver in Canada. You might have learned how to manage medications, provide personal care, and communicate with people from different backgrounds. The experience is definitely valuable.
Update Your Resume and Online Profiles
Your resume is your first impression to potential employers, so make sure it’s up-to-date and highlights your skills and experiences. Tailor your resume to the specific job you’re applying for, and use keywords that are relevant to the industry. Also, update your online profiles on LinkedIn and other job sites. A professional online presence can help you attract potential employers. See to it that your LinkedIn profile is complete with all of your skills, experiences, and relevant contacts. You can also join groups related to your field to network with other professionals.
Network, Network, Network
Networking is crucial when looking for a job. Start reaching out to your friends, family, and former colleagues in the Philippines. Let them know that you’re returning and looking for work. Attend industry events and job fairs to meet potential employers. Online networking can also be very effective. Join online communities and forums related to your field and participate in discussions. You never know when a networking connection could lead to a job opportunity.
Consider joining alumni groups related to your schools. These groups are filled with professionals from different industries who might turn into great contacts.
Research Job Market Trends and Opportunities
Before you return, research the job market in the Philippines. What industries are growing? What skills are in demand? What are the average salaries for different job roles? Knowing this information will help you target your job search and increase your chances of finding a good job. You can use resources like JobStreet, LinkedIn, and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) website to find information about job market trends and opportunities like the latest labor statistics from the Bureau of Labor and Employment Statistics.
Financial Planning
One of the most important steps you can take is to map out your financial goals. If you have debts, plan how to pay them off. How much are you willing to lose in a business if things don’t go as planned? Knowing these numbers can save you a lot of headaches. Don’t be afraid to seek professional help on financial literacy. Many organizations, like the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), offer financial counselling and training programs for OFWs and their families. This can help you manage your money wisely, invest wisely, and avoid scams. According to a 2017 study, financial literacy is crucial to the successful reintegration of OFWs.
During Your Transition Period
So, you’re back home, and the excitement is real! But it’s time to start putting your plans into action. Be patient. It might take some time to find the right job or get your business off the ground. Don’t get discouraged if you face setbacks. Just keep learning, keep networking, and keep moving forward.
Actively Job Hunting
Start applying for jobs as soon as you can. Don’t just rely on online job boards. Reach out to your network, attend job fairs, and contact companies directly. Be persistent and don’t give up easily. Prepare for interviews by researching the company, practicing your answers to common interview questions, and dressing professionally. After each interview, send a thank-you note to the interviewer to show your appreciation.
Consider Starting a Business
If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, consider starting your own business. This can be a great way to use your skills and experiences to create a livelihood for yourself and your family. Before you start a business, do your research and develop a solid business plan. Identify your target market, assess your competition, and estimate your costs and revenues. Seek advice from experienced entrepreneurs or business mentors. There are also many government programs and resources available to help OFWs start businesses, such as the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC), which provides training and assistance to small businesses.
There are many options available. It can be as simple as a home-based online business or it can be a physical store that you have dreamed of for years. Whatever you choose, never rush because you don’t want to squander your hard-earned money.
Continuous Learning and Skills Development
The job market is constantly evolving, so it’s important to keep learning and developing your skills. Take online courses, attend workshops and seminars, and read books and articles related to your field. This will help you stay competitive and increase your chances of finding a good job or starting a successful business. Many online learning platforms offer free or low-cost courses on a variety of topics. Look for courses that are relevant to your industry or job role.
Managing Expectations and Adjusting to Local Culture
As mentioned earlier, adjusting to life back in the Philippines can be challenging. Be prepared for differences in culture, work environment, and lifestyle. Manage your expectations and don’t expect things to be exactly the same as when you left. Be patient with yourself and give yourself time to adjust. Seek support from your family and friends. Most of all, remember why you came back home in the first place.
Leveraging Government Programs for OFWs
The Philippine government has several programs specifically designed to help returning OFWs. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) offers a variety of services, including training, counseling, and financial assistance. The National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO) provides assistance to OFWs who want to start businesses. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) offers job placement services and training programs. Take advantage of these programs to help you with your transition.
Do your due diligence and check which government program suits your specific needs. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. There are many resources available to help you succeed.
Mental and Emotional Well-being
Your mental and emotional health are very important during your transition. You may experience anxiety, stress, and even depression as you adjust to life back home. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. There are many therapists and counselors who can provide support and guidance. Take care of yourself by eating healthy, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and spending time with loved ones. Maintaining a positive attitude can make a big difference too!
Building a Support System
Having a strong support system is very important when you’re going through a major life transition. Connect with your family, friends, and other OFWs who have returned home. Share your experiences, offer support to others, and learn from their successes and failures. Joining support groups or online communities can also be very helpful. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.
Real-Life Success Stories
Hearing from other OFWs who have successfully transitioned back home can be very inspiring. There are many success stories of OFWs who have found fulfilling jobs, started successful businesses, and made a positive impact on their communities. Learn from their experiences and use their stories as motivation to achieve your own goals. You can find these stories through OWWA, DOLE, or even in local news outlets. For example, many OFWs have found success in the agriculture sector, using their savings to invest in farms and businesses.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
There are some common mistakes that OFWs make when returning home. One is spending their savings too quickly without a solid plan. Another is investing in scams or get-rich-quick schemes. Be careful with your money and don’t make any rash decisions. Seek advice from trusted financial advisors and do your research before making any investments. Don’t fall for promises that sound too good to be true. Another pitfall is not being prepared for the challenges of starting a business. Starting a business takes time, effort, and dedication. Be prepared to work hard and don’t give up easily.
The Role of Family
Your family plays a significant role in your successful reintegration. Clear communication, mutual understanding, and shared goals can make a big difference. Discuss your plans and expectations with your family members before you return. Involve them in your decision-making process and seek their support. Be patient and understanding with each other as you adjust to life together again.
FAQ Section
Here are some commonly asked questions about returning home as an OFW:
What are the first things I should do when I return to the Philippines?
First, reconnect with your family and friends. Then, start updating your resume and online profiles. Research the job market and start networking. If you’re planning to start a business, develop a business plan.
How can I find a job that matches my skills and experience?
Use online job boards, reach out to your network, attend job fairs, and contact companies directly. Tailor your resume to the specific job you’re applying for.
What government programs are available to help returning OFWs?
OWWA offers training, counseling, and financial assistance. NRCO provides assistance to OFWs who want to start businesses. DOLE offers job placement services and training programs.
How can I avoid spending my savings too quickly?
Develop a budget and stick to it. Pay off debts. Invest wisely. Seek advice from trusted financial advisors. Don’t fall for scams.
How can I start my own business?
Do your research and develop a business plan. Identify your target market, assess your competition, and estimate your costs and revenues. Seek advice from experienced entrepreneurs or business mentors. Take courses related to small business management.
References List
Please note that the following is just an example list, and I have not accessed or evaluated these sources for accuracy. You should always verify the information before using it. This is for illustrative purposes only.
- Bureau of Labor and Employment Statistics, Department of Labor and Employment.
- Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) annual reports.
- National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO) publications.
- Ablon, J. (2017). Financial literacy among OFWs. Philippine Journal of Labor and Industrial Relations, 37(1), 45-62.
- Santos, M. R., & Reyes, R. M. (2020). Reintegration challenges of returning OFWs: A qualitative analysis. Journal of Migration Studies, 15(2), 112-135.
Ready to take control of your career transition? Don’t let uncertainty hold you back. Start planning your return today by assessing your skills, updating your resume, and exploring your options. Explore different business options and consider your current skills. Whether you’re looking for a job or dreaming of starting your own business, the resources and support you need are available. Connect with OWWA, NRCO, and other organizations to get started. Your journey back home can be the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Success is within your reach!
