Coming home to the Philippines after working abroad as an OFW is a big step, and it’s important to have a plan, especially when it comes to your career. You’ve gained valuable experience and savings, and now it’s time to use them wisely to build a good life back home.
Understanding Your “Why” for Returning
Before diving into job searching or starting a business, take a moment to really think about why you’re coming home. Is it to be closer to family? To start a family? To finally pursue a lifelong dream? Understanding your motivation will help you make career choices that align with your personal goals. For example, if being close to aging parents is your top priority, you might want to consider job opportunities closer to their place, even if it means sacrificing a slightly higher salary elsewhere. Having this clear “why” makes the return journey a lot easier.
Assessing Your Skills and Experience
You’ve likely gained a ton of skills while working abroad, many of which might be transferable to the Philippine job market. Don’t just think about your formal job duties. Consider your soft skills like communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and leadership. For instance, if you worked as a caregiver, you’ve developed patience, empathy, and strong communication, which are valuable in various roles, including customer service, teaching, and even sales. Write down all your skills and experiences. Think about how these skills can be valuable to potential employers or used to start your own small business. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) of the Philippines offers free assessment and certification programs for certain skills. Check the TESDA website for courses or programs near you.
Knowing the Philippine Job Market
The Philippine job market is different from what you might be used to abroad. Research current industry trends and in-demand skills. Websites like JobStreet.com, LinkedIn, and local newspapers often list job openings. Keep an eye on news reports about growing industries in the Philippines. For example, the Business Processing Outsourcing (BPO) industry is a major employer, and certain specializations within IT (like cybersecurity or data science) are always in demand. It’s beneficial to know the average salary for your target role. Check Payscale, and Glassdoor for average salary estimates. You may need to adjust your salary expectations compared to what you earned abroad, so plan your finances accordingly. Don’t be afraid to network! Reach out to friends, family, and former colleagues who can provide insights and potential leads.
Updating Your Resume and Cover Letter
Your resume and cover letter need to be tailored to the Philippine job market. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the jobs you’re applying for. Be sure to use keywords that are common in job descriptions for your target role. Include any certifications or training courses you completed while abroad. If you managed to land a project that significantly impacted your previous company, quantify the results. “Improved customer satisfaction by 20%” sounds a lot more impressive than simply saying you provided customer service. Tailor your resume to each job application instead of sending out a generic resume. It shows the employer that you care and understand what they’re looking for. A well-crafted cover letter explaining your transition back to the Philippines and your reasons for wanting the specific job can make a big difference.
Networking and Building Connections
Networking is crucial in landing a job in the Philippines. Attend job fairs, industry events, and reach out to your network of friends, family, and former colleagues. Let them know you’re back and looking for opportunities. Use professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to connect with people in your field. Joining professional organizations related to your industry can also provide valuable networking opportunities. The power of “kabayan” spirit is strong. OFWs often help each other out. Don’t be afraid to ask for informational interviews with people working in companies you’re interested in. This is a chance to learn more about the company culture and potential job openings, even if they don’t have anything formal listed yet.
Considering Entrepreneurship
Many OFWs dream of starting their own business upon returning home. If you have some capital saved up and a good business idea, this could be a viable option. Think about what skills and resources you have and what problems you can solve in your community. Do some market research to determine if there’s a demand for your product or service. Consider the competition and how you can differentiate yourself. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) offers various programs and services to assist small businesses, including training, mentorship, and access to financing. Attending their free webinars could be a great head start. You could also research successful OFW-owned businesses and learn from their experiences. What industries are they in? What challenges did they face, and how did they overcome them?
Franchising as an Option
Franchising can be a great middle ground between starting a business from scratch and getting a job. This might be easier than starting a business completely on your own. You’re buying into a proven business model with established branding, marketing, and operations. However, franchising requires significant investment, and you’re still responsible for the day-to-day operations. Research franchise opportunities carefully and consider your own skills and interests. You can start by attending virtual expos or seminars on franchising like those regularly advertised by the Philippine Franchise Association (PFA). Talk to existing franchisees about their experiences – the good and the bad – before making a decision to make sure franchising is something you can see yourself doing.
Financial Planning for Your Return
Carefully managing your finances is crucial during your transition back to the Philippines. Create a budget that includes your living expenses, job search costs, and any business start-up costs. Having an emergency fund is vital in case it takes longer than expected to find a stable income. Explore investment options in the Philippines, such as stocks, bonds, or real estate, to help grow your savings. Consult with a financial advisor to create a personalized financial plan that suits your goals and risk tolerance. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) offers financial literacy programs you can access online. Plan to budget at least 6 months to one year of living expenses, and factor in all needs like housing, food, travel, and entertainment.
Bridging Skill Gaps through Training
If you realize you need to upgrade your skills or learn new ones to be competitive in the Philippine job market, consider enrolling in training courses or workshops. TESDA offers a wide range of technical and vocational courses. Online learning platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and EdX offer a vast selection of courses, sometimes with financial aid too. These courses can provide you with the latest knowledge and skills in your field. Research the specific skills in high demand. For instance, learning graphic design or SEO is a great path to working either as a freelancer or as an employee.
Adjusting to Life Back Home
Returning to the Philippines after several years abroad can be a big adjustment, even if you were eager to come home. You might experience reverse culture shock – feeling disoriented or overwhelmed by the changes in your home country. Things might not be exactly as you remember them. Be patient with yourself and give yourself time to adapt. Surround yourself with friends and family who can provide support and understanding. Connecting with other returning OFWs can also be helpful as they understand what you’re going through. Keep an open mind and focus on the positive aspects of being back home. Consider participating in community activities or volunteering to reconnect with your roots. Finding ways to give back to your community can provide a sense of purpose and belonging.
Seeking Support from OFW Organizations
Several organizations cater to the needs of OFWs and their families. These organizations can provide assistance with job placement, business start-up, financial literacy, and reintegration support. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is the primary government agency responsible for protecting the welfare of OFWs. Contacting OWWA should be one of your first steps in planning your return. Aside from OWWA, numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs) also provide assistance to OFWs. Do your research and find an organization that can meet your specific needs. Support groups can allow you to share experiences and help one another adjust from living and working abroad and eventually restarting life in the Philippines.
Managing Expectations
It’s important to have realistic expectations about your career transition. Finding a job or starting a business can take time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you face setbacks or challenges. Stay persistent and keep learning and adapting. Rome wasn’t built in a day, so be patient with getting to where you want to be. The path to success is often filled with obstacles, but with determination and hard work, you can achieve your goals. If things don’t go exactly as planned, don’t be afraid to adjust your strategy. Sometimes, detours can lead to unexpected opportunities. Remember why you came home. Keeping those “why” goals in mind will help you overcome difficulties.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Many returning OFWs make the mistake of spending their hard-earned savings too quickly or investing in risky ventures. Be cautious and do your research before making any major financial decisions. Avoid get-rich-quick schemes or businesses that sound too good to be true. Be wary of dubious investment opportunities. Consult with trusted financial advisors before making any major investments or business ventures. Don’t let pressure from family or friends influence your decisions. It’s your money, and you have the right to decide how to use it wisely. It’s also wise to manage expectations from family that will expect financial support. Set boundaries instead of just saying yes to all requests.
Protecting Yourself from Scams
Unfortunately, scams targeting OFWs are common. Always be vigilant and protect yourself from fraud. Be wary of individuals offering guaranteed employment or high-return investments. Never share your personal or financial information with strangers. Verify the legitimacy of any job offers or business proposals before committing to them. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. The Philippine government offers ways to report scams through the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). You can check the NBI website for details about reporting scams.
Focusing on Your Well-being
Your mental and emotional well-being is just as important as your financial success. Take care of your physical and mental health. Make time for activities you enjoy and that help you relax and de-stress. Stay connected with friends and family and seek support when you need it. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor. Reintegrating can be tougher than living abroad, especially because family members may expect you to fix their problems or may not fully understand or appreciate your new experiences. Finding ways to cope with challenges can make your homecoming more successful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about career transition for returning OFWs:
What kind of skills should I focus on improving before I return?
Focus on skills that are in high demand in the Philippines, such as digital marketing, data analysis, customer service, and technical skills related to your field. Also, practice your communication and networking skills as these are crucial in the Philippine job market. If your job requires industry-specific skills and software, take some time to review and upskill before you come home, so you’re up-to-date. For example, if you’re an accountant, make sure you’re familiar with the latest accounting software used in the Philippines.
How much money should I save before returning to the Philippines?
Ideally, you should save enough money to cover your living expenses for at least six months to one year while you’re looking for a job or starting a business. Include your housing, food, transportation, and other essential expenses. Also, set aside an emergency fund for unexpected costs.
What are the best cities in the Philippines to find job opportunities?
Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao are major economic hubs with a wide range of job opportunities. However, the best city for you will depend on your skills and industry. Consider the cost of living and lifestyle when choosing a location. Consider the job market in your hometown. You might be surprised by some unexpected opportunities.
How can I start a small business with limited capital?
There are many business opportunities that require minimal investment, such as online selling, freelancing, or providing home-based services. Start small and scale up as your business grows. Consider bootstrapping or seeking microloans from reputable lending institutions. You can also consider partnering with someone who has complementary skills or resources. Explore businesses that tap into your existing skills. For example, if you’re good at cooking, you could start a small catering business.
What government agencies can help returning OFWs with their career transition?
OWWA, DTI, TESDA, and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) all offer programs and services to support returning OFWs. Check their websites for information on training, job placement, business start-up assistance, and financial assistance.
References
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Programs for Small and Medium Enterprises.
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). Programs and Services.
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). Financial Literacy Programs.
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). Courses and Programs.
Philippine Franchise Association (PFA).
Ready to come home with a plan? Don’t let your hard-earned money go to waste and the valuable skills you learned abroad remain unused. Start planning your career transition back to the Philippines today. Visit the OWWA website, attend DTI seminars, and connect with other returning OFWs. Take control of your future and make your homecoming a success! The Philippines is waiting, and with the right preparation, you can build a fulfilling life back home.
