It’s a big question for many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs): is it better to stay in one country for a long time to climb the career ladder, or should you consider moving to other places for better opportunities? There’s no single right answer, because it depends on your personal goals, skills, and the kind of career you’re building. This article will explore the good and bad points of both strategies, so you can make the best choice for your future.
Understanding Your “Why”: What Do You Really Want?
Before even thinking about staying or leaving, it’s super important to figure out what you really want. Is it about earning as much money as possible in the short term? Is it about building a stable, long-term career? Or maybe it’s about gaining experience in different industries or cultures?
Think about your long-term goals. Do you dream of owning a house back in the Philippines? Sending your kids to the best schools? Retiring comfortably? Your answers to these questions will heavily influence your career strategy. For instance, you need to save over PHP 1 million if you are planning on retiring early in the Philippines as mentioned in this article by financial expert The Manila Times.
You should think about these things because your goals and values will shape your decision. Be honest with yourself, because that’s the only you choose what is right for yourself.
The “Home Field Advantage”: Staying in One Country
Staying in one country for a long time has some pretty big advantages.
Firstly, you get to know the culture, the language (if it’s different from your own), and the way things work. This makes it easier to build relationships with colleagues and bosses, which can lead to promotions and better opportunities.
Secondly, you start accumulating local experience. This is super valuable to employers. They know you understand the local market, regulations, and customer preferences. It’s shows you are not just passing through as an OFW such as with a US labor force.
Thirdly, it provides stability. Moving around a lot can be stressful and disruptive to your personal life. Staying put allows you to put down roots, build a community, and create a sense of belonging.
Finally, staying in one company can also make you eligible for their benefits. Many companies offer long-term employees benefits such as paid vacation time, paid sick leave, insurance, and retirement funds.
Real-World Example: The Nurse Who Became a Supervisor
Let’s say there’s a Filipino nurse who goes to work in a hospital in Saudi Arabia. She’s fresh out of nursing school and is just starting her career abroad. She doesn’t know the culture, the language, or the hospital’s procedures.
But she works hard and slowly learns everything in her work place. She stays at the hospital for several years and she starts to become really good at her job. She knows the language, the regulations, and the hospital’s procedures. She builds strong relationships with her bosses and colleagues and because of her skill, knowledge, and experience accumulated she gets promoted to a supervisory position.
This nurse has created a stable and secure career for herself and shows how OFWs grow in their chosen field.
The “Global Nomad”: The Allure of Moving Around
On the other hand, moving to different countries can also be a great way to boost your career. First, it exposes you to different industries and cultures. This broadens your skillset and makes you more adaptable and resourceful.
Second, it can lead to higher salaries. Some countries offer better pay and benefits for certain professions than others. Moving to a country with high demand for your skills can significantly increase your earning potential.
Third, it builds your network. Every time you move to a new place, you meet new people and expand your professional contacts. This can open doors to future opportunities.
Most of all, it makes you independent. If you are skilled and good at what you do, working for long years in one country makes you reliant on them. Transferring between countries may allow you test yourself and be confident in your abilities.
Real-World Example: The IT Professional Who Went International
Think about an IT professional from the Philippines who starts out working for a local company in Dubai. After a few years, he gains experience in web development and decides to move to Singapore, where there’s a growing demand for tech professionals. He works for a tech firm and gets to develop his knowledge and experience in new fields.
After a couple of years, he gets a job in Canada, who happens to be expanding it’s tech industry. His salary increased significantly, and gets more valuable skills to add to his experience.
This IT professional is on different levels compared to the nurse on the previous real-world example. The IT professional’s experience demonstrates that moving can lead to more money and more important job growth.
The Downside: Challenges and Considerations
Whether you choose to stay or move, there are always challenges to consider.
Staying in One Country: You might get stuck in a rut, where you’re doing the same thing day after day. Opportunities for promotion may be limited, and you might feel like your skills are becoming outdated. The cost of living could rise faster than your salary, and it can become difficult to leave the country after staying there for so long because of the comforts you have grown accustomed to.
Moving Around: Constant change can be stressful and isolating. You might face difficulties adjusting to new cultures and languages. Building a strong network and finding stable housing can also be challenging. The ever-changing nature of your surroundings could lead to difficulty in your ability to settle down.
The ILO (International Labour Organization) Report mentioned the difficulties of OFWs in certain nations, where challenges included cultural difference, language, and discrimination.
Skills That Travel Well: What Employers Value
No matter where you go, some skills are always in demand. Focus on developing these skills to increase your career opportunities:
Language Skills: Knowing multiple languages is a huge asset. English is often the language of business. Learning the local language of the country you’re working in will make you more effective and help you build better relationships.
Technical Skills: Tech skills such as programming, data analysis, and digital marketing are in high demand globally. Staying up-to-date with the latest technologies will keep you competitive.
Soft Skills: Soft skills like communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability are essential for success in any workplace. Develop these skills to become a valuable team player.
Adaptability and Resilience: Being able to adapt to new environments and overcome challenges is crucial, especially if you’re moving around a lot. Resilience will help you bounce back from setbacks and keep moving forward.
The Power of Networking: Building Connections
Networking is essential to career growth. Here’s how to build connections:
Online Networking: Use LinkedIn and other professional networking platforms to connect with people in your industry. Join relevant groups and participate in discussions.
Industry Events: Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops to meet people with shared interests. Networking can also foster skill development and make you more adept.
Professional Organizations: Join professional organizations related to your field. These organizations often offer networking opportunities, training programs, and job postings.
For example, Filipino nurses who are OFWs should join Philippine Nurses Association of America to widen their network.
Mentorship: Seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support. Mentors can offer valuable insights into your career path and help you make informed decisions.
Financial Planning: Making Your Money Work for You
Whether you stay in one country or move around, financial planning is crucial. Create a budget and track your expenses. Set financial goals, such as saving for a house, education, or retirement.
Invest wisely. Consider diversifying your investments to reduce risk. Seek advice from a financial advisor if needed.
Send money home regularly! And make sure your family back home knows how to manage finances.
The Importance of Continuous Learning
The job market is constantly changing. You need to keep learning and developing new skills to stay relevant.
Online Courses: Take online courses to learn new skills or upgrade your existing ones. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and edX offer a wide range of courses.
Certifications: Earn professional certifications to demonstrate your expertise. Certifications can boost your credibility and increase your earning potential.
Read Books and Articles: Stay informed about the latest trends in your industry by reading books, articles, and industry publications.
Knowing When to Make a Change
Sometimes, you need to reevaluate your career path. If you’re feeling stuck, unfulfilled, or undervalued, it might be time to make a change.
Consider your options. Should you look for a new job in your current country? Or should you consider moving to a different country with better opportunities?
Weigh the pros and cons of each option. Talk to your family, friends, and mentors for advice.
Make a plan. Once you’ve decided to make a change, create a detailed plan of action. Set realistic goals and timelines.
Real-World Example: The OFW Who Returned Home
There’s an OFW who worked as a construction worker in the Middle East for more than 10 years. He was earning good money, but he was missing out on his children’s childhood. His family wants him to go home and he feels that is what is right to do. After weighing his options, he decides to return to the Philippines.
He uses his savings to start a small construction business. Because of his experience abroad, he knows the ins and outs of the business and is even better than other local contractors. He can be with his family and make a living at the same time.
This OFW demonstrates that sometimes, the best career move is not about staying in one country or moving to another, but about returning home and using your skills and experience to build a better life for yourself and your family.
How the Philippines is Helping OFWs
The Philippine government has some programs to help OFWs.
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) offers support and services to OFWs, including training programs, financial assistance, and repatriation assistance.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is working to protect the rights and welfare of OFWs and ensure safe migration practices.
Take advantage of these programs and services to help you achieve your career goals.
FAQ Section
Is it always better to move to a country with higher salaries?
Not necessarily. While higher salaries are attractive, consider the cost of living, taxes, and overall quality of life in that country. Sometimes, a lower salary in a country with a lower cost of living can be more beneficial.
How do I know if I’m being underpaid in my current job?
Research the average salary for your position in your country and industry. Use online resources like Glassdoor or Salary.com. If you’re being paid significantly less than the average, it might be time to ask for a raise or look for a new job.
What are some good online resources for OFWs?
There are many online resources for OFWs. Some helpful websites include OWWA, DMW, and various OFW support groups on social media. These resources can provide information, advice, and support.
How can I protect myself from scams when working abroad?
Be wary of job offers that seem too good to be true. Research the company thoroughly before accepting a job. Never pay upfront fees for job placement. Get everything in writing, including your job description, salary, and benefits. Contact the Philippine embassy or consulate in your country for assistance.
What should I do if I encounter problems with my employer?
Try to resolve the issue directly with your employer if possible. If that doesn’t work, contact the Philippine embassy or consulate in your country for assistance. You can also seek help from OWWA or other OFW support organizations.
References
The Manila Times. (2024). _How much do you need to retire early in the Philippines?_.
Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2015). _Foreign-Born Workers: Labor Force Characteristics in 2014_.
International Labour Organization. (2020). _Fair recruitment of migrant workers: Guidance note 13_.
Philippine Nurses Association of America. Official Website.
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. Official Website.
Department of Migrant Workers. Official Website.
Instead of a simple conclusion, let’s create a call to action.
So, what’s the bottom line? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether staying in one country or moving around is the best strategy for OFWs. The best approach depends on your unique circumstances, goals, and values. The goal is clear: plan well, save well, be good at what you do, and you will be able to provide for yourself and your family. Before you choose, think about these things carefully. Which path will lead you get closer to your dreams?
Now it’s your turn.
Reflect on your current situation. What are your long-term goals? What skills do you need to develop? What steps can you take to build a brighter future for yourself and your family?
Take your time to write down your thoughts, then create a plan.
Your journey starts now. Good luck!
