Working overseas as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) gives you so much more than just a paycheck. It’s packed with experiences, skills, and a unique perspective that can really help you boost your career back home. This article will show you how to turn those experiences into real expertise that employers will be looking for.
Recognizing Your Hidden Talents
Okay, so you’ve been working abroad. Maybe you were a caregiver in Canada, a construction worker in the Middle East, or a hotel staff member in Singapore. Whatever it was, you’ve picked up skills you probably didn’t even realize. Think beyond the obvious. Sure, you might’ve learned to cook amazing international dishes or operate heavy machinery. But what about your problem-solving skills? Your ability to adapt to different cultures? These are seriously valuable assets.
Let’s say you were a caregiver. You were responsible for someone’s well-being, managing their medications, preparing meals, and providing companionship. That’s not just “taking care” of someone. That’s project management (managing tasks, schedules, and resources), healthcare support (basic medical knowledge and assistance), interpersonal skills (communicating effectively with the patient and their family), and problem-solving (handling emergencies and unexpected situations). These are transferrable skills that can be applied to various roles, from healthcare administration to customer service management.
Or perhaps you worked in construction. You followed safety protocols, coordinated with a team, and met deadlines. That’s technical proficiency (operating machinery, reading blueprints), teamwork (collaborating with others to achieve a common goal), time management (meeting project deadlines), and risk management (adhering to safety regulations). Construction skills can be transferrable for instance, someone could work as a construction supervisor, or even a risk manager.
The key is to identify all the skills you’ve acquired, even the ones that seem small. Write them down. Make a list. Think about specific situations where you used those skills. This will help you articulate them clearly when you’re applying for jobs or talking to potential employers.
Documenting Your Achievements: A Crucial Step
You’ve identified your skills – great! Now you need to document them. Don’t just say “I’m a good problem-solver.” Show them. Give concrete examples. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe your experiences.
For example: “In my previous role as a caregiver in Canada (Situation), I had a patient who frequently became agitated and refused to take their medication (Task). I tried various techniques, such as distraction and persuasion, but they were unsuccessful. Finally, I discovered that the patient enjoyed listening to classical music (Action). I started playing music during medication time, and the patient became much calmer and more cooperative, reducing their agitation and ensuring they received their medication on time (Result).”
Another example: “While working on a construction site in the Middle East (Situation), we encountered unexpected delays due to a shortage of materials (Task). I took the initiative to contact multiple suppliers and negotiate a faster delivery schedule, while also working with the team on-site to optimize the workflow and minimize downtime (Action). As a result, we were able to recover lost time and complete the project only one week behind schedule, minimizing the financial impact of the delays (Result).”
Keep records of your performance evaluations, certifications, and any awards or recognition you received. These documents will serve as proof of your skills and accomplishments.
Crafting a Winning Resume and Cover Letter
Your resume and cover letter are your first impression. Tailor them to match the specific job you’re applying for. Don’t just send out the same generic resume to every company. Read the job description carefully and highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant.
In your resume, use action verbs to describe your accomplishments. Instead of saying “Responsible for customer service,” say “Provided exceptional customer service to over 100 clients per day, resolving inquiries and complaints efficiently.” Quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example, instead of saying “Improved efficiency,” say “Improved efficiency by 15% through streamlining work processes.”
In your cover letter, explain why you’re interested in the job and why you’re a good fit for the company. Highlight your unique skills and experiences as an OFW. Emphasize your adaptability, resilience, and cross-cultural communication skills.
Here’s an example of how you could incorporate your OFW experience into your cover letter:
“Dear ,
I am writing to express my interest in the position at , as advertised on . With years of experience working as a in , I have developed a strong foundation in .
In my previous role, I was responsible for . I successfully and . I am particularly proud of my ability to in a challenging and fast-paced environment.
As an OFW, I have honed my adaptability, resilience, and cross-cultural communication skills. I am confident that my diverse experience and strong work ethic would make me a valuable asset to your team.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I have attached my resume for your review and welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
“
Highlighting Soft Skills: The Underrated Powerhouse
Hard skills (like operating machinery or speaking a specific language) are important, but soft skills are often what set you apart. They are the personal attributes that enable someone to interact effectively and harmoniously with other people. As an OFW, you’ve likely developed a whole arsenal of these critical skills.
Think about your communication skills. You’ve probably communicated with people from different backgrounds, with different cultural norms, and maybe even in a different language. You’ve learned to listen actively, ask clarifying questions, and express yourself clearly, even when facing cultural barriers. Now, think of the value of this in the Philippine business setting. The skills to lead and be collaborative. Communication is something you learn and can’t necessarily get a degree in.
Consider your adaptability. Living and working in a foreign country requires you to adjust to new environments, new customs, and new challenges. You’ve learned to be flexible, resourceful, and resilient in the face of adversity. This is incredibly valuable in today’s rapidly changing job market. Businesses want someone who quickly adapts to a new environment or new challenges.
Don’t underestimate your problem-solving skills. When you’re far from home, you often have to rely on your own ingenuity to solve problems. You’ve learned to think critically, analyze situations, and find creative solutions. You’ve learned to be independent, to thrive under pressure, and to find strength in any adversity. This is a highly sought-after skill in any industry.
Make sure to highlight these soft skills in your resume, cover letter, and during job interviews. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you’ve used them in your previous roles.
Networking: Your Key to Hidden Opportunities
Networking is all about building relationships. It’s about connecting with people who can help you advance your career. As an OFW, you may have already built a strong network of contacts overseas. Don’t let those connections fade away. Stay in touch with your former colleagues, supervisors, and clients. You never know when they might be able to offer you a job or connect you with someone who can.
But don’t just rely on your existing network. Expand your connections by attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and participating in online forums and social media groups related to your field. Actively seek opportunities to meet new people and build relationships.
Informational interviews are a great way to learn about different industries and job roles. Reach out to people who work in fields you’re interested in and ask if they’d be willing to have a brief conversation with you. Prepare a list of questions in advance and be respectful of their time. Use informational interviews to gather insights and advice, and to build your network.
Here are some tips for effective networking:
Be genuine and authentic. People can spot a fake a mile away.
Focus on building relationships, not just collecting business cards.
Listen more than you talk.
Offer value to others.
Follow up with your contacts.
Be patient. Networking takes time and effort, but it will pay off in the long run.
Upskilling and Reskilling: Staying Relevant in the Job Market
The job market is constantly evolving. To stay relevant, you need to continuously learn new skills and update your knowledge. As an OFW, you may have been out of the Philippine job market for a while. Take the time to research the current trends and demands in your industry. Identify any skills gaps you may have and take steps to address them.
Consider taking online courses, attending workshops, or pursuing certifications in your field. There are many free or low-cost resources available online. Websites like Coursera, edX, and Udemy offer a wide range of courses on various topics. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) TESDA also offers courses. Prioritize those that will help you meet the specific needs of Philippine business at home.
Don’t limit yourself to technical skills. Also focus on developing your soft skills, such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving. These skills are essential for success in any industry. Find a mentor or coach who can guide you and provide feedback on your progress.
Remember that learning is a lifelong journey. Embrace new challenges and be open to change. The more you learn, the more valuable you become to employers.
Tailoring Your Skills to the Philippine Context
While your overseas experience is valuable, it’s important to understand how it translates to the Philippine context. The business culture, work environment, and industry standards may be different from what you’re used to. Take the time to research these differences and adapt your approach accordingly.
For example, if you worked in a highly individualistic culture, you may need to adjust to a more collectivist approach in the Philippines, where teamwork and collaboration are highly valued. If you worked in a very formal environment, you may need to adopt a more casual and friendly approach in the Philippines.
Learn about the local laws, regulations, and business practices that are relevant to your industry. Familiarize yourself with the Philippine labor laws and regulations to ensure that you’re aware of your rights and responsibilities as an employee. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) DOLE is a great resource for those types of employment considerations.
Consider volunteering or interning at a local company to gain experience in the Philippine job market. This will give you a chance to apply your skills in a real-world setting and build your network of contacts.
Leveraging Your Cross-Cultural Experience
One of the biggest advantages you have as an OFW is your cross-cultural experience. You’ve lived and worked in a different country, interacted with people from different backgrounds, and learned to navigate different customs and traditions. This experience makes you valuable to companies that operate in the global market.
Highlight your cross-cultural communication skills in your resume and cover letter. Emphasize your ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds. Share examples of how you’ve successfully navigated cultural differences in your previous roles.
Consider seeking out jobs that require international experience or cross-cultural skills. Many multinational companies are looking for candidates who can bridge cultural gaps and facilitate communication between different teams or departments. You can use the resources and guidance from the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) website POEA to facilitate your integration to the job market.
Your ability to speak a foreign language is also a valuable asset. If you’ve learned a new language while working overseas, be sure to highlight it in your resume and during job interviews.
Negotiating Your Salary and Benefits
Don’t be afraid to negotiate your salary and benefits. Many OFWs underestimate their worth and accept the first offer they receive. Do your research to find out the average salary range for your position in the Philippine job market. Use websites like JobStreet, Salary.com, and Glassdoor to get an idea of the typical compensation.
When negotiating your salary, be confident and assertive. Highlight your skills, experience, and accomplishments. Emphasize the value you bring to the company. Be prepared to walk away if the offer is not acceptable.
Also, consider the benefits package. Many companies offer benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Factor these benefits into your overall compensation package.
Remember that you are worth more than you think. Don’t settle for less than you deserve.
FAQ Section
Q: How do I overcome the stigma of being an OFW in the Philippine job market?
A: Some employers may perceive OFWs as being “out of touch” with the local job market or lacking relevant skills. To overcome this stigma, focus on highlighting your transferrable skills, documenting your achievements, and tailoring your resume and cover letter to match the specific job requirements. Also, emphasize your adaptability, resilience, and cross-cultural communication skills. Remember also highlighting the independence and adaptability skills you demonstrated – skills you wouldn’t normally get by staying at home.
Q: What if my skills don’t directly translate to jobs available in the Philippines?
A: Don’t be discouraged. Focus on identifying the transferrable skills you’ve gained and how they can be applied to different roles. Consider upskilling or reskilling to gain new skills that are in demand in the Philippine job market. Also, be open to exploring different career paths that align with your skills and interests.
Q: Where can I find resources and support for OFWs returning to the Philippines?
A: There are many organizations and government agencies that provide resources and support for returning OFWs. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) OWWA offers various programs and services, such as livelihood training, financial assistance, and reintegration support. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) also provides assistance to returning OFWs through its various programs and services.
Q: How important are certifications when looking for a job back home?
A: Certifications are more than fancy badges; they’re proof that your skills are up to industry standards. Some jobs might require specific certifications (like being a certified welder or a Microsoft-certified professional), making you instantly more attractive to employers. Even if a certification isn’t mandatory, it shows dedication, that you’ve invested the time to level up, and that you’re serious about your chosen field.
References List
Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)
Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA)
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
Ready to transform your OFW experience into career success? Start by taking inventory of your skills, crafting a compelling resume, and networking strategically. Don’t underestimate the value you bring to the table. The world needs your unique perspective and resilience! Take that leap. You’ve survived working overseas, now survive working back home with all the skills and knowledge to build a better future.
