Being an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) is more than just a job; it’s a life experience that shapes who you are. That experience gives you valuable skills and a unique outlook that can help you shine in any workplace, whether you’re still abroad or back home. This article explores how OFWs can unlock these hidden advantages and use them to excel in their careers.
Resilience: Bouncing Back Stronger
Life as an OFW isn’t always easy. You’re away from family and friends, often dealing with unfamiliar cultures, languages, and work environments. But these challenges build resilience – the ability to bounce back from setbacks. Think about it: you’ve navigated visa applications, found housing in a foreign country, learned to cook with new ingredients, and maybe even survived a tough boss. Each of these experiences has made you stronger and more adaptable.
Many OFWs experience culture shock. Imagine arriving in a new country where everyday customs are different. It takes time to adjust, and you’re bound to make mistakes along the way. This process teaches you to be patient, understanding, and open to new ways of doing things. When you face challenges at work, you can draw on this experience to stay calm, find solutions, and keep moving forward. For example, if a project doesn’t go as planned, instead of getting discouraged, you can use your resilience to learn from the mistakes and come up with a better plan.
Here’s a real-world example: Maria, a former caregiver in Hong Kong, returned to the Philippines and started her own small business. The first few months were tough – she faced unexpected expenses, marketing challenges, and stiff competition. But Maria didn’t give up. She remembered the lessons she learned as an OFW – her ability to handle difficult situations, her resourcefulness in finding solutions, and her determination to succeed. She used these skills to overcome the obstacles and build a thriving business.
Adaptability: Being a Chameleon in the Workplace
Living and working in a different country requires a high degree of adaptability. OFWs learn to adjust to new cultures, different working styles, and unfamiliar technology. This adaptability is a huge asset in today’s rapidly changing workplace. Companies need employees who can quickly learn new skills, embrace change, and thrive in diverse environments. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) offers programs that support OFWs which can help with this transition, but much of it comes simply from experience.
Think about the different tasks you might have performed as an OFW. You might have had to cook, clean, manage finances, care for children or elderly people, and handle various household chores. These experiences teach you valuable skills that are transferable to many different jobs. For example, if you worked as a housekeeper, you likely developed strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage your time effectively. These skills are valuable in any office setting, from managing paperwork to coordinating events.
Another example is the ability to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds. As an OFW, you’ve likely interacted with people who speak different languages, have different customs, and hold different beliefs. You’ve learned to be patient, respectful, and understanding in your communication. This is a valuable skill in any workplace, especially in companies that operate globally. If you can build relationships with colleagues from different cultures, you’ll be a valuable asset to your team. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, cultural sensitivity is increasingly important in the global workforce, and OFWs often possess this sensitivity already.
Strong Work Ethic: Going the Extra Mile
OFWs are known for their strong work ethic. They are often willing to work long hours, take on extra tasks, and go the extra mile to get the job done. This dedication and commitment are highly valued by employers. Many OFWs leave their families behind to provide a better future for them. This sacrifice motivates them to work hard and make the most of their opportunities. They understand the value of hard work and are willing to put in the effort to succeed.
Your experience as an OFW has taught you the value of hard work and perseverance. You’ve likely faced challenges and overcome obstacles, and you’ve learned that success doesn’t come easy. This experience has instilled in you a strong work ethic that will serve you well in any job. You are not afraid of hard work and are willing to do what it takes to achieve your goals. This is a valuable asset that will set you apart from other candidates. Perhaps you managed multiple tasks in a small timeframe. Communicating this experience and the hard work that went into will be helpful when seeking employment.
Consider the story of Ben, a former construction worker in Saudi Arabia. Ben worked long hours in demanding conditions, often spending months away from his family. But he never complained. He knew that his hard work was providing a better life for his children. When he returned to the Philippines, he used his savings to start a small hardware store. He applied the same work ethic to his business, working long hours, providing excellent customer service, and always going the extra mile. As a result, his business thrived, and he was able to provide a comfortable life for his family. The International Labour Organization (ILO) promotes decent work conditions, but it’s the personal dedication of OFWs that often drives their success.
Problem-Solving Skills: Thinking on Your Feet
Living and working in a foreign country often requires you to think on your feet and solve problems independently. OFWs are adept at finding creative solutions to challenges, from navigating public transportation to dealing with language barriers to handling unexpected emergencies. This ability to problem-solve is a valuable asset in any workplace.
Think about the times you had to figure things out on your own as an OFW. Maybe you got lost on your way to work and had to find your way back without speaking the local language. Or maybe you had to deal with a malfunctioning appliance and figure out how to fix it yourself. These experiences taught you to be resourceful, creative, and independent in your problem-solving. When you face challenges at work, you can draw on these experiences to find solutions, even when you don’t have all the answers.
For example, if a project is behind schedule, you can use your problem-solving skills to identify the bottlenecks and come up with a plan to get the project back on track. Or if you’re facing a difficult customer, you can use your communication skills and empathy to resolve the issue and build a positive relationship. Your ability to think on your feet and solve problems independently will make you a valuable asset to any team. Imagine you worked as a domestic helper overseas and needed to manage dietary restrictions due to a food shortage or supply chain issue. You found alternative recipes or substitutes using the resources available. This is a great example of problem-solving.
Financial Literacy: Managing Money Wisely
For many OFWs, working abroad is about providing for their families back home. This often involves managing remittances, budgeting, and making financial decisions. This experience can lead to increased financial literacy, which is a valuable skill both personally and professionally. Many OFWs learn to be very careful with their money, as they know that every peso counts. They often have to budget carefully, save money for their families, and make smart investment decisions. This experience teaches them valuable financial skills that can be applied to many different areas of their lives.
You’ve likely learned how to track your income and expenses, set financial goals, and make informed investment decisions. You may have also learned how to send money home efficiently and avoid unnecessary fees. This financial literacy will benefit you in many ways, both personally and professionally. For example, you’ll be better equipped to manage your finances, plan for your future, and make sound investment decisions. And if you’re working in a job that involves financial management, your financial literacy will make you a valuable asset to your team.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) offers resources to help OFWs manage their finances. Utilizing these resources and combining them with your own experience can lead to significant financial stability.
Interpersonal Skills: Building Relationships
Working in a foreign environment often requires interacting with people from different cultures and backgrounds. OFWs develop strong interpersonal skills, including communication, empathy, and conflict resolution. They are often able to build rapport quickly and effectively with people from diverse backgrounds. You’ve learned to communicate clearly and effectively, even when there are language barriers. You’ve also learned to be patient, understanding, and respectful of different cultures and beliefs. These interpersonal skills are essential for building strong relationships, both personally and professionally.
When you face conflicts at work, you can use your communication skills and empathy to understand the other person’s perspective and find a solution that works for everyone. Your ability to build rapport with colleagues from different cultures will make you a valuable asset to your team. For instance, imagine you worked in a restaurant overseas. You are trained to handle customer complaints and defuse tense situations. This is a strong interpersonal skill.
Here’s a tip: when interviewing for jobs back home, think about specific situations where you used your interpersonal skills to resolve conflicts or build relationships. Share these stories with the interviewer to demonstrate your abilities. Remember the nuances and cultural sensitivities, as the same situation may require different approaches back home or in a different workplace.
Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding Different Perspectives
Exposure to different cultures broadens your perspective and enhances your cultural sensitivity. OFWs often gain a deeper understanding of different values, customs, and beliefs. This cultural sensitivity is highly valued in today’s globalized world. Companies need employees who can work effectively with people from different backgrounds, avoid cultural misunderstandings, and build strong relationships across cultures. Being an OFW allows you to see the world from different viewpoints. You understand that there are many different ways of doing things and that what is considered normal in one culture may be considered strange in another.
This understanding allows you to be more open-minded, tolerant, and respectful of different cultures. When you work with people from different backgrounds, you can appreciate their unique perspectives and avoid making assumptions or stereotypes. Your cultural sensitivity will make you a valuable asset to any team that operates globally. Consider that in many cultures, direct eye contact or a firm handshake may be considered inappropriate. Remembering the cultural differences and expectations will help you succeed at home and abroad.
You can use this cultural sensitivity to improve communication, build relationships, and resolve conflicts. For example, if you’re working on a project with colleagues from different cultures, you can be mindful of their communication styles and adjust your approach accordingly. You can also use your cultural knowledge to avoid making unintentional cultural faux pas. When you demonstrate cultural sensitivity, you create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. UNESCO promotes intercultural dialogue, something OFWs often experience firsthand.
Language Proficiency: Speaking the Language of Success
Many OFWs learn a new language while working abroad, whether it’s English, Arabic, Cantonese, or another language. This language proficiency is a valuable asset in any workplace, opening doors to new opportunities and improving communication with colleagues and clients. The ability to speak another language can be a significant advantage in the job market. It opens doors to new opportunities, improves your communication skills, and demonstrates your willingness to learn and adapt.
If you’ve learned a new language as an OFW, be sure to highlight this skill on your resume and in job interviews. Emphasize how your language proficiency has helped you build relationships, solve problems, and succeed in your previous roles. Make sure to take the language proficiency exam to get certified. Moreover, don’t be afraid to use your language skills to help others in the workplace. You can volunteer to translate documents, interpret conversations, or assist colleagues who are struggling with the language. Your willingness to share your language skills will make you a valuable asset to your team.
Sometimes, it’s not just about formal language proficiency. Even understanding slang terms or common phrases used in the workplace can be a huge help in building rapport and feeling more comfortable in a new environment.
Networking Skills: Building Bridges Back Home
The OFW experience can broaden your network both abroad and back home. Maintain connections with former colleagues, employers, and fellow OFWs, as these relationships can be valuable for career advancement and support. While you’re overseas, make an effort to connect with people in your field and build relationships with mentors and industry leaders. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and network online through platforms like LinkedIn. When you return to the Philippines, maintain these connections and use them to your advantage.
You can also build new connections within the Philippines by attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and networking online. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people you admire or who work in your field of interest. Ask them for advice, seek mentorship opportunities, and build relationships that can help you advance your career. Maintaining a strong network can open doors to new opportunities, provide valuable support, and help you stay connected to your industry. You may be surprised how many people are willing to help you succeed.
Remember that networking is a two-way street. Be sure to offer your help and support to others in your network, whether it’s by providing advice, making introductions, or sharing your expertise. Building a reciprocal network will strengthen your relationships and create a community of support that will benefit you throughout your career or life.
Leadership Skills: Taking Charge
While not all OFW jobs are leadership roles, the experience of navigating a foreign environment, managing resources, and often mentoring other OFWs can develop leadership skills. Some OFWs take on unofficial leadership roles within their communities or workplaces, mentoring new arrivals, organizing events, or advocating for their fellow workers. These experiences can develop leadership skills that are transferable to more formal leadership positions. Some Filipino communities are very active overseas. You may be asked to lead or mentor fellow OFWs.
To develop leadership skills, consider volunteering for leadership roles within your community or workplace. Take on extra responsibilities, delegate tasks, and provide guidance to others. You can also seek out mentorship opportunities to learn from experienced leaders. If you have been responsible for a budget or had to make difficult decisions, this experience will hone your leadership skills. Reflect on the instances you took initiative, organized events, or advocated for fellow workers. These examples demonstrate your leadership ability.
When applying for leadership positions, highlight your experience mentoring others, managing resources, and making difficult decisions. Showcase your ability to motivate and inspire others, build consensus, and achieve common goals. Your experience and skills can be invaluable in leadership roles. Additionally, online courses and certifications can help further polish your leadership abilities. Many organizations offer courses specific to cross-cultural leadership, which may be especially helpful.
FAQ Section
Q: How can I identify my hidden advantages as an OFW?
A: Take some time to reflect on your experiences as an OFW. Think about the challenges you’ve overcome, the skills you’ve learned, and the qualities you’ve developed. Consider the unique perspective you’ve gained from living and working in a different culture. Once you’ve identified your hidden advantages, think about how they can be applied to different jobs and industries.
Q: How can I showcase my OFW experience to potential employers?
A: When you’re creating your resume, be sure to highlight your skills and accomplishments as an OFW. Use action verbs to describe your responsibilities and quantify your achievements whenever possible. In your cover letter, explain how your OFW experience has prepared you for the job you’re applying for. In job interviews, be prepared to share specific examples of how you’ve used your skills and experience to overcome challenges and achieve success.
Q: What resources are available to help OFWs transition back into the workforce?
A: There are several resources available to help OFWs transition back into the workforce, including government agencies like OWWA, non-profit organizations, and career counseling services. These resources can provide assistance with resume writing, job searching, career counseling, and financial planning. Some programs also offer training and skills development to help OFWs upgrade their skills and increase their employability.
Q: How can I deal with reverse culture shock after returning from abroad?
A: Reverse culture shock is a common experience for OFWs returning home. It can involve feelings of disorientation, loneliness, and difficulty adjusting to life in the Philippines. To cope with reverse culture shock, it’s important to stay connected with your support network, seek out opportunities to connect with other OFWs, and be patient with yourself as you adjust to your new surroundings. It can also be helpful to remember the positive experiences you had abroad and to focus on the things you appreciate about living in the Philippines.
Q: Is it okay to include my salary expectations during the job application process?
A: Including salary expectations can be tricky. Research the average salary for similar positions in the industry and geographic area you are applying to. While it’s important to know your worth, it’s also important to be realistic and flexible. Indicate a salary range rather than a specific number, and be prepared to discuss your salary expectations further during the interview process. Some job postings will ask or require inclusion in the application submission process, so be prepared.
References
Pew Research Center. (Year). . Retrieved from
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). . Retrieved from
International Labour Organization (ILO). . Retrieved from
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). . Retrieved from
You possess a wealth of knowledge, experience, and skills that are highly valued by employers. Don’t underestimate the power of your OFW experience. By understanding your hidden advantages, showcasing your skills effectively, and networking strategically, you can unlock your full potential and achieve your career goals. Take the time to reflect on your journey, identify your strengths, and then use that knowledge to confidently pursue your dreams. Your unique perspective is an asset – embrace it and let it guide your path to success! Start today and discover where your hidden advantages can take you.
