In the heart of Southeast Asia lies a vibrant island city-state that has become a beacon of economic prosperity and cultural diversity – Singapore. For Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) seeking new horizons and exciting career prospects, the Lion City offers a plethora of opportunities. From its world-class infrastructure to a dynamic job market, Singapore stands as an appealing destination for those in pursuit of professional growth.
However, embarking on a job search in a foreign land comes with its unique set of challenges and considerations. Cultural nuances, employment regulations, and the competitive job market are aspects that demand careful navigation. In this guide, we will delve into invaluable tips and strategies tailored specifically for OFWs aspiring to make their mark in Singapore’s bustling job scene.
Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on the personal experiences shared by the OFW in the video below. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the OFW by commenting on their video on their accounts.
Navigating the Singapore Job Market for Filipino Workers
The information presented in this article comes from a YouTube video from the OFW YouTuber whose channel is called “Francis Alex.” In this video, the vlogger shares some tips on how to properly apply for a job in Singapore. If you want to watch the full video, then click on the link below:
Our vlogger suggests trying to find a job without relying too much on agencies. He thinks it’s better to talk directly to employers. It might take a bit more effort, but it gives you more control.
The vlogger started working back in 2011, and things were simpler then. Now, he says it’s a bit different. He talks about the changes in how you apply for jobs and what employers are looking for nowadays.
Back in the day, applying for jobs in Singapore was easier. But our vlogger knows things have changed. He shares tips on what you need to know about work visas and how to make your resume stand out in today’s job market.
He didn’t always get the jobs he wanted. He talks about times when things didn’t work out and how he kept trying. He wants you to know that it’s okay to face challenges and that each one is a chance to get better.
In this vlog, our friend not only gives you tips for job hunting but also shares stories to inspire you. Remember, finding a job is not just about resumes and interviews; it’s also about staying strong and learning along the way.
First Tip: Related work Experience
- Relevant Work Experience: It’s like a toolkit for the job, showing employers you can jump in without much training.
- Vlogger’s Practical Example: In the Philippines, he sold supplements, gaining valuable sales experience. Transitioning to a call center agent, he honed communication, sales, and customer service skills.
- Experience Beyond 2 Years: The vlogger’s 2+ years of varied roles highlight expertise and adaptability, making him a strong candidate.
- Your Experience Matters: Whether in sales, customer service, or a related field, use your past roles to showcase skills and prove you’re the perfect fit.
Having relevant work experience is like having a tool kit for the job. Employers want to see that you’ve handled similar tasks before. It shows them that you understand the work and can jump right in without too much training.
Our vlogger’s journey is a great example of how experience can make a difference. In the Philippines, he worked for a supplement company, selling products. This gave him hands-on experience in sales, which is a valuable skill in many industries. When he transitioned to being a call center agent, he not only honed his communication skills but also continued to deal with sales and customer service.
Working as a call center agent might not seem directly related to the job he’s currently applying for, but the vlogger knows how to connect the dots. In the call center, he not only provided customer service but also used his sales skills to pitch products. This dual experience set him up for success when he decided to explore new opportunities in Singapore.
The vlogger’s experience adds up to more than 2 years, making him a strong candidate. Employers often look for this magic number because it indicates a certain level of expertise and adaptability. Our vlogger’s varied roles showcase that he’s not only got the required experience but also a mix of skills that can benefit his potential employers.
Second Tip: Relevant Education
Our vlogger found his niche in Singapore’s competitive job market by aligning his educational background with his career choices. Although he graduated with a nursing degree in the Philippines, he didn’t stick strictly to nursing roles. Instead, he ventured into sales, particularly in the health sciences sector. This strategic move allowed him to leverage his knowledge while exploring new horizons.
Despite the apparent leap from nursing to sales, the vlogger’s transition wasn’t a disjointed jump. Instead, he skillfully connected the dots between health sciences and supplement sales. This alignment allowed him to seamlessly make the career switch and, most importantly, remain valuable to his employer.
The vlogger emphasizes the advantages of being a college graduate in the Singaporean job market. A college degree opens doors to better work passes, such as the S Pass. While an S Pass is beneficial, the vlogger hints that the ultimate goal is the coveted E Pass, reserved for those with higher qualifications and skills. So, having a relevant degree not only enhances your employability but also influences the type of work pass you might be eligible for.
- Qualification Requirement: Many employers in Singapore require candidates to have a relevant degree as a basic qualification for the job.
- Work Pass Eligibility: Having a relevant degree increases eligibility for better work passes, such as the S Pass or E Pass, improving your chances of securing employment.
- Industry Standards: Certain industries and roles have established educational standards, and having a relevant degree ensures you meet or exceed these expectations.
- Skills and Knowledge Base: A degree provides you with a specialized skill set and knowledge base, making you more competent and valuable in your chosen field.
- Industry-Specific Knowledge: Degrees often provide specialized knowledge tailored to a specific industry, giving you a deeper understanding of the sector you wish to work in.
- Adaptability: A degree showcases your ability to undertake and complete a structured course, indicating adaptability and a capacity for continuous learning – traits highly valued by employers.
Third Tip: Apply Online While in the Philippines
Our vlogger’s third tip dives into a crucial aspect of job hunting in Singapore – applying online from the comfort of your home country. This strategic move not only streamlines the process but also avoids the pitfalls associated with walking in as a tourist, a method our vlogger learned from personal experience.
While it might be tempting to jump on a plane to Singapore and try your luck with in-person job applications, our vlogger cautions against this approach. Having walked that path before, he highlights the drawbacks – it’s time-consuming, stressful, and can end up costing you more than you bargained for. From living expenses to accruing debts back home, the financial toll can be significant.
Our vlogger shares his own story of trying the walk-in approach, emphasizing that it took him several months to secure employment. This firsthand experience serves as a valuable lesson for others contemplating the same path. He encourages viewers to learn from his journey and opt for a more efficient and cost-effective method.
With the advancement of technology, our vlogger recommends harnessing the power of the internet to streamline your job search. Sending applications online not only saves you time and money but also allows you to explore a multitude of opportunities from the comfort of your home. The key is to identify the best websites or direct hiring platforms that cater to foreign applicants.
To make the most of online applications, our vlogger shares a practical tip. If you have a specific company in mind, simply search for it on job websites. Look for sections like ‘Join Us’ or ‘Careers’ on the company’s official website. Alternatively, use search engines with specific keywords like “retail jobs in Singapore open for foreigners.” This targeted approach ensures that you are applying to positions that match your skills and interests.
Fourth Tip: Send 30 Resumes Daily
In the fast-paced world of job hunting, our vlogger’s fourth tip introduces a proactive strategy – sending out 30 resumes daily. This isn’t just about quantity; it’s a numbers game that increases your chances of landing that coveted job in Singapore. Let’s explore why this approach is effective and how it aligns with the modern job market dynamics.
The vlogger’s advice is clear – don’t stop, keep those resumes flowing. By consistently sending out a substantial number of applications, you increase the likelihood of catching the attention of potential employers. It’s a numbers game, and persistence often pays off in the competitive job market.
The vlogger’s advice is clear – don’t stop, keep those resumes flowing. By consistently sending out a substantial number of applications, you increase the likelihood of catching the attention of potential employers. It’s a numbers game, and persistence often pays off in the competitive job market.
In conclusion, navigating the job market in Singapore as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) requires a strategic approach and a combination of practical tips. The insights shared by our vlogger provide a comprehensive guide for OFWs seeking employment in the Lion City.