10 Vital and Empowering Tips for First-Timers Working Abroad

Venturing abroad for the first time as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) can be both exhilarating and daunting. Having worked in the Middle East, specifically Kuwait, for years, I have gathered invaluable insights that can make your journey smoother. Here are simple yet crucial tips to keep in mind before accepting a job and while working abroad, especially in the Middle East, but applicable to other countries too.

1. Research the Company

Learn about the company that will hire you. Western companies are often more reliable and offer better packages in terms of salary, accommodation, health insurance, overtime, meal allowances, transportation allowances, airfare, family status, children’s schooling, and evacuation plans during times of crisis. Use Google to check the company’s products, services, organization, policies, safety, quality, environment, and financial condition. Find out if the company operates in different countries.

2. Match Your Skills with the Job

Ensure that the job you’re applying for aligns with your skills, qualifications, and experiences. If you feel your skills are lacking, take short courses to boost your qualifications. It may be beneficial to attend several training programs, to increase your chances for promotion, making yourself more competitive and ahead of your peers. Learning is an ongoing process, especially for OFWs working abroad.

3. Understand the Local Culture

Familiarize yourself with the country’s cultures and traditions. Learn the dos and don’ts. If possible, pick up some of the local language. I took courses in Arabic, which helped me integrate better. Feedback from friends already working in the same country can be invaluable.

Understanding the local culture is crucial for OFWs working abroad, particularly first-timers.

4. Read Your Work Contract Thoroughly

Make sure you thoroughly read and understand your work contract before signing it. Pay attention to remuneration, vacation leave, work schedule, accommodation, health and safety provisions, transportation, years of service allowances, gratuities, and insurance. This is vital for OFWs working abroad to ensure they are protected and aware of their rights.

5. Never Travel on a Tourist Visa

Don’t fly to a country without a job offer from a company. Never, ever travel on a tourist visa hoping to find a job. If authorities catch you, you might end up in jail and get deported. Always follow local rules to avoid legal troubles.

6. Prepare Before Departure

Ensure you have a valid visa, accident insurance, pocket money, and booked accommodation before flying to your destination. It’s also essential to have someone from the hiring company pick you up from the airport. These preparations are vital for OFWs working abroad, ensuring a smooth transition to a new environment.

Pack your comfort food, like canned goods, biscuits, and chips. While you can get Filipino snacks and other foods abroad, they are often more expensive.

When packing, make sure that the bags and luggage you plan to bring are within the weight limit, as specified by the airline baggage allowance.

• Personal Item: Handbags or Laptop bags. These are typically not weighed separately, as long as they fit under the seat in front of you.
• Carry-On: One piece of carry-on baggage up to 7-10 kg.
• Check-in: Usually 23 – 32 kg, with one or two bags allowed.

Always double-check the airline guidelines of your flight to make sure you are following the bag allowance.

Label your passport with your name, email, and other contact information in case it gets lost. Make sure to backup copies of your documents and save them via email. These preparations are vital for OFWs working abroad, ensuring a smooth transition to a new environment.

7. Respect Local Customs

The adage “When in Rome, do as the Romans do” holds true. In the Middle East, avoid wearing inappropriate attire in public, such as underwear shirts, slippers, short pants, or prohibited body ornaments. Respect local customs to avoid misunderstandings or conflicts. This is particularly important for OFWs working abroad in the Middle East.

8. Avoid Public Misconduct

Don’t swear at anyone in public, and don’t throw waste or spit on the ground. Public decency laws are strict, and violating them can lead to severe penalties. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial for OFWs working abroad, ensuring they maintain a good reputation.

9. Dress Appropriately

Dress according to the profession you’re hired for. Many companies have dress codes that you need to follow. Proper attire can make a significant difference in how you are perceived and treated.

10. Choose Happiness and Safety Over Earnings

Don’t accept a job solely for the sake of earning. Ensure that you feel safe and happy with your job. Your well-being should always be a priority. This mindset is vital for OFWs working abroad, ensuring a fulfilling and positive experience.

Embarking on your first journey as an OFW can be challenging, but with these tips, you can navigate your new life abroad with confidence and ease. Remember, preparation and respect for local customs are key to a successful and rewarding experience.

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Safe travels and best of luck on your new adventure!

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A multi-award-winning blogger and advocate for OFWs and investment literacy; recipient of the Mass Media Advocacy Award, Philippine Expat Blog Award, and Most Outstanding Balikbayan Award. Her first book, The Global Filipino Bloggers OFW Edition, was launched at the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait. A certified Registered Financial Planner of the Philippines specializing in the Stock Market. A recognized author of the National Book Development Board of the Philippines. Co-founder of Teachers Specialist Organization in Kuwait (TSOK) and Filipino Bloggers in Kuwait (FBK). An international member of writing and poetry. Published more than 10 books.  Read more: About DiaryNiGracia