So, you’re thinking of coming home! Awesome! This guide is all about helping you figure out how to find a job and settle back into a career in the Philippines after working overseas. We’ll walk you through the process, step by step, with tips and tricks to make it a smooth transition.
Preparing for Your Return: Before You Even Pack Your Bags
Before you even buy a plane ticket, start thinking about your career back home. Don’t wait until you’re unpacking boxes to figure out what you want to do! This early planning is crucial for a confident and successful return.
Self-Assessment: What Do You Really Want?
First, take some time for serious self-reflection. Ask yourself: What did you like and dislike about your job abroad? What skills did you develop or improve? What are your passions and interests that you might want to explore in a career? Are you aiming for a higher salary than before, a better work-life balance, or a completely new direction?
For example, maybe you worked as a nurse in Saudi Arabia. While you’re a skilled nurse, you might have enjoyed teaching new colleagues the ropes. This could mean exploring opportunities in nursing education back home. Or perhaps, after years in the kitchen, you dream of opening a small restaurant featuring your family’s recipes. This involves a different career path, but your experience abroad has given you the financial stability to pursue it.
Skills Mapping: What Can You Offer?
Next, create a detailed list of all your skills. Don’t just think about your official job title. Consider all the tasks you performed, software you used, languages you learned, and even the soft skills you developed, like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Think about those extra responsibilities you took on at the workplace. Don’t underestimate even informal roles like “go-to person for tech issues.”
Think about specific projects you worked on. Did you manage a team? Did you train new employees? Did you create a new process that improved efficiency? Quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example: “Improved team efficiency by 15% by implementing a new project management system.”
Market Research: What Jobs are Available?
Before getting too invested in a specific role, research the job market in the Philippines. Websites like Jobstreet Philippines, LinkedIn, and Indeed Philippines are your friends. Start searching for jobs that match your skills and interests. Pay attention to the required qualifications, salary ranges, and company culture.
Also, network online. Join relevant Facebook groups or LinkedIn groups for OFWs returning to the Philippines, or groups focused on your particular industry. This can also provide valuable insights into job openings not publicly advertised.
For example, if you are looking for employment in BPO, you’ll find a multitude of vacancies for English speakers. But, you can also find job opportunities that are in demand that aligns more with your prior experiences and skills.
Resume and Cover Letter: Tailor Them to the Philippine Market
Your resume might need some adjustments to fit the Philippine style. Emphasize your international experience, but also highlight how your skills are relevant to the specific job you’re applying for. Use keywords from the job description in your resume.
Many Filipino employers appreciate a concise and well-formatted resume. Use a professional-looking template. Keep it to one or two pages if possible. Quantify your accomplishments whenever you can. Instead of just saying “Managed a team,” say “Managed a team of 10 employees, resulting in a 20% increase in sales.”
A cover letter is also important. Use it to introduce yourself, explain why you’re interested in the company and the position, and highlight your most relevant skills and experiences. Tailor your cover letter to each specific job application. Don’t use a generic cover letter for every job.
Ensure your resume is easily accessible. Upload it to job websites and have it ready to email to potential employers. A digital copy is more practical than a hard copy most of the time.
Online Presence: Clean Up Your Social Media
Employers often check social media profiles. Make sure your online presence is professional. Update your LinkedIn profile with your latest work experiences, skills, and achievements. Remove any inappropriate content from your Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts. If you have a blog or website, make sure it represents you in a positive light.
Consider creating a professional online portfolio or website to showcase your work. This is especially important for those in creative fields like design, photography, or writing. This could be as simple as a free website with links to your best work.
During Your Return: Networking and Job Hunting
You’ve arrived! Now, the real work begins. Being on the ground allows for better networking and focused job hunting. Don’t be discouraged if it takes some time to find the right fit.
Networking: It’s All About Connections
Networking is crucial in the Philippines. Let your family, friends, and former colleagues know you’re back and looking for a job. Attend industry events, job fairs, and seminars. Join professional organizations related to your field. Reaching out to old classmates or professors can also open doors.
Consider attending industry-specific conferences or workshops. These are great opportunities to learn about the latest trends in your field and meet potential employers. Prepare a short “elevator pitch” – a brief summary of your skills and experience that you can deliver in a minute or less.
Job Applications: Persistence is Key
Don’t just rely on online job postings. Contact companies directly, even if they don’t have advertised openings. Send your resume and cover letter and express your interest in working for them. Follow up on your applications. A polite phone call or email to inquire about the status of your application shows your interest and persistence. Be ready for the interview process.
Be strategic in your applications. Don’t just apply for every job you see. Focus on positions where you have a strong chance of success. Research the companies you’re applying to and tailor your resume and cover letter to each specific job.
Keep track of all your applications. Create a spreadsheet to track the date you applied, the job title, the company name, the contact person, and the status of your application. This will help you stay organized and follow up effectively. It’s also helpful to note the job URL.
Interview Preparation: Practice Makes Perfect
Practice answering common interview questions. Research the company and the role you’re applying for. Prepare questions to ask the interviewer. Dress professionally and arrive on time. Remember to maintain eye contact, smile, and speak clearly and confidently. Be ready for both in-person and online job interviews.
Some common questions include: “Tell me about yourself,” “Why are you interested in this position?” “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” and “Where do you see yourself in five years?” Practice your answers out loud until you feel comfortable and confident.
In the Philippines, it is customary to send a thank-you note or email to the interviewer after the interview. This shows your appreciation for their time and reinforces your interest in the position.
Negotiating Salary and Benefits: Know Your Worth
Before accepting a job offer, research the average salary for similar positions in the Philippines. Consider your skills, experience, and the cost of living. Don’t be afraid to negotiate for a higher salary or better benefits. Be prepared to justify your salary expectations based on your qualifications and the value you can bring to the company. Remember, factors like healthcare, allowances and paid leave are important.
Researching salary benchmarks is essential. Websites like SalaryExpert and Payscale can provide insights into average salaries for different positions in your industry.
Adjusting to Life Back Home: More Than Just a Job
Finding a job is only one part of the equation. Adjusting to life back in the Philippines can also take time and effort. It’s not just about getting a job, it’s about reintegrating into society.
Reverse Culture Shock: It’s Real!
Don’t be surprised if you experience reverse culture shock. You might feel disoriented, frustrated, or even homesick for your life abroad. Remember that things have changed since you left. Be patient with yourself and allow yourself time to adjust. Spend time with family and friends, explore your local area, and reconnect with your culture.
This is a completely normal experience. You’ve likely changed during your time abroad, and so has the Philippines. Be open to new experiences and try to embrace the differences. Talking to other returning OFWs can be a helpful way to process your feelings and share experiences.
Financial Management: Be Smart with Your Savings
Resist the urge to spend all your savings at once. Create a budget and stick to it. Pay off any debts you have. Invest wisely for your future. Take advantage of financial literacy programs offered by government agencies or NGOs. Setting up a business that aligns with your passion is a good option as long as it is meticulously planned.
Consider consulting with a financial advisor to help you manage your finances effectively. They can help you set financial goals, create a budget, and make informed investment decisions. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) provides resources on financial literacy.
Building a Support System: You’re Not Alone
Connect with other returning OFWs. Share your experiences, offer support, and learn from each other. Join online communities and attend social gatherings. Remember that you’re not alone in this journey. There are many resources available to help you succeed.
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) offers various programs and services for returning OFWs, including reintegration assistance, livelihood training, and psychosocial counseling.
Continuous Learning: Stay Relevant
The job market is constantly evolving. Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in your field. Take online courses, attend workshops, and read industry publications. Invest in your professional development to stay competitive and relevant.
Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer a wide range of online courses that can help you improve your skills and knowledge. Many of these courses are affordable or even free. Focus your learning on skills that are in high demand in the Philippine job market.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions by OFWs returning to the Philippines:
What are the best websites to search for jobs in the Philippines?
The most popular job search websites in the Philippines include Jobstreet Philippines, LinkedIn, and Indeed Philippines.
How do I prepare my resume for the Philippine job market?
Tailor your resume to each specific job application. Highlight your international experience, but also emphasize how your skills are relevant to the position. Use keywords from the job description. Keep it concise and well-formatted.
How important is networking in the Philippines?
Networking is very important in the Philippines. Let your family, friends, and former colleagues know you’re back and looking for a job. Attend industry events and job fairs. Join professional organizations.
What is reverse culture shock?
Reverse culture shock is the feeling of disorientation, frustration, or homesickness that you might experience when you return to your home country after living abroad. It’s a normal experience, and it will pass with time.
What kind of programs are available to help returning OFWs?
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) offers various programs and services for returning OFWs, including reintegration assistance, livelihood training, and psychosocial counseling.
How much money should I save before returning to the Philippines?
The amount of money you should save depends on your individual circumstances. However, it’s generally a good idea to have enough savings to cover your living expenses for at least six months while you’re looking for a job. Budget for these months while you are planning your trip back home.
References List
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
Jobstreet Philippines.
LinkedIn.
Indeed Philippines.
SalaryExpert.
Payscale.
Ready to take the next step? Don’t let fear hold you back! The Philippines is home, and your skills and experience are valuable. Start planning your return today. Update your resume, start networking, and explore the job market. You’ve got this! Invest in yourself. Your contribution and success are not just your own—but also for the country. Welcome home!
