Introduction
Returning to the Philippines after years of working abroad as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) can be both exciting and daunting. While you may be eager to reunite with family and friends, the prospect of re-entering the local job market might seem overwhelming. However, your experience as an agency-hired OFW has equipped you with a unique set of skills and perspectives that can be incredibly valuable in the Philippine job market. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the transition, identify your transferable skills, and position yourself for success in your home country’s evolving employment landscape.
Understanding the Philippine Job Market
Before diving into how to leverage your OFW experience, it’s crucial to understand the current state of the Philippine job market. The country’s economy has been growing steadily over the past decade, with several sectors showing particular promise for returning OFWs.
Key Growth Sectors
1. Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
2. Information Technology
3. Tourism and Hospitality
4. Healthcare
5. Construction and Infrastructure
6. E-commerce and Digital Services
These sectors often value the international experience and language skills that many OFWs possess. However, it’s important to note that competition can be fierce, especially in urban areas like Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao.
“The Philippine job market is dynamic and constantly evolving. Returning OFWs need to be adaptable and ready to showcase how their international experience can add value to local companies.” – Juan dela Cruz, HR Consultant
Identifying Your Transferable Skills
As an agency-hired OFW, you’ve likely developed a range of skills that can be applied across various industries and roles in the Philippines. Let’s explore some of these transferable skills:
1. Cross-cultural Communication
Working abroad has honed your ability to communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds. This skill is invaluable in the increasingly globalized Philippine business environment, especially in sectors like BPO and tourism.
2. Adaptability and Resilience
The experience of living and working in a foreign country demonstrates your adaptability and resilience. These qualities are highly sought after by employers in fast-paced industries like tech and e-commerce.
3. Language Proficiency
Many OFWs return with improved English skills or proficiency in other languages. This can be a significant advantage in customer service roles, international business, or teaching positions.
4. Technical Skills
Depending on your specific job abroad, you may have gained technical skills that are in high demand in the Philippines. For example, healthcare workers might have experience with advanced medical technologies, while those in construction might be familiar with international building standards.
5. Time Management and Productivity
Working in countries with strict work cultures often leads to improved time management and productivity skills. These are valuable in any industry but particularly prized in fast-paced sectors like BPO and IT.
6. Financial Literacy
Managing finances across borders and dealing with remittances has likely improved your financial literacy. This skill can be valuable in roles related to finance, accounting, or even entrepreneurship.
Translating OFW Experience to Local Context
One of the challenges returning OFWs face is effectively communicating how their international experience applies to the local job market. Here are some strategies to help you bridge this gap:
1. Research local industry standards: Familiarize yourself with current practices and technologies used in your target industry in the Philippines. This will help you frame your experience in a relevant context.
2. Use concrete examples: When discussing your skills, provide specific examples of how you’ve applied them in your work abroad. This helps potential employers visualize your capabilities.
3. Highlight cultural intelligence: Emphasize how your experience working with diverse teams can benefit companies dealing with international clients or expanding globally.
4. Showcase problem-solving skills: Describe situations where you overcame challenges unique to working abroad, demonstrating your resourcefulness and adaptability.
5. Emphasize continuous learning: If you’ve taken courses or earned certifications while abroad, make sure to highlight these as evidence of your commitment to professional development.
Navigating the Job Search Process
Armed with a clear understanding of your skills and how they apply to the local market, it’s time to start your job search. Here are some steps to guide you:
1. Update Your Resume and Online Profiles
Tailor your resume to highlight your international experience and the transferable skills you’ve identified. Don’t forget to update your LinkedIn profile and other professional online presence.
2. Network Strategically
Leverage both your overseas and local networks. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and reconnect with former colleagues who are now back in the Philippines.
“Networking is crucial in the Philippine job market. Many opportunities come through personal connections and referrals.” – Maria Santos, Career Coach
3. Consider Upskilling
Identify any gaps between your current skills and those in demand in your target industry. Consider taking short courses or certifications to bridge these gaps and make yourself more competitive.
4. Explore Government Programs
The Philippine government offers various programs to support returning OFWs. For example, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) provides reintegration programs that include job matching services and entrepreneurship support.
5. Be Open to Different Opportunities
While you may have a specific role in mind, be open to exploring different positions or industries where your skills might be valuable. Sometimes, the best opportunities come from unexpected places.
Preparing for Interviews
When you start landing interviews, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Here are some tips specific to returning OFWs:
1. Address the “overqualified” concern: Some employers might worry that you’re overqualified due to your international experience. Be prepared to explain your motivations for returning and how you see yourself growing with the company.
2. Demonstrate local market awareness: Show that you’ve done your research on the current Philippine market trends and challenges in your industry.
3. Highlight your unique perspective: Emphasize how your international experience gives you a unique perspective that can benefit the company.
4. Be ready to discuss salary expectations: Research current salary ranges for your target positions in the Philippines to ensure your expectations are realistic.
5. Prepare for cultural readjustment questions: Employers might be curious about how you plan to readjust to working in the Philippines. Have thoughtful answers ready that demonstrate your adaptability.
Entrepreneurship: An Alternative Path
For some returning OFWs, entrepreneurship presents an attractive alternative to traditional employment. Your international experience, combined with your understanding of the local market, can be a powerful foundation for starting a business.
The Philippine government offers support for OFW entrepreneurs through programs like the OFW Enterprise Program, which provides business training and low-interest loans. Consider exploring these options if you’re interested in starting your own venture.
Conclusion
Returning to the Philippine job market after working abroad as an agency-hired OFW presents both challenges and opportunities. By carefully identifying and articulating your transferable skills, understanding the local market, and strategically approaching your job search, you can position yourself for success.
Remember that your international experience is a valuable asset. It has equipped you with a unique perspective and a diverse skill set that can set you apart in the competitive Philippine job market. Be confident in your abilities, stay open to learning and adapting, and don’t hesitate to seek support from government programs and professional networks.
Your journey as an OFW has been one of growth and resilience. Now, as you return home, it’s time to leverage that experience to build a rewarding career in the Philippines. With the right approach and mindset, you can turn your OFW experience into a powerful catalyst for your professional success back home.
