Working abroad is an excellent way to enhance your skills or acquiring new ones, making you more charming to employers and improving your CV. If you have decided to work abroad, then OFW Tips should help you to stay informed on many survival aspects. Whether you are staying for a short period or relocating permanently, make sure that the Philippines government has your data. Below are various ways to stay safe as an overseas Filipino worker.
Research more about the country
One of the excellent ways to stay safe when working abroad is becoming familiar with the area you plan to live. For instance, if you are not careful, you might find yourself in areas that face civil unrest. On the flipside, you might move into an area with health risks without knowing. So do a proper research about the country that you intend to work in to be better prepared to deal with the risks and circumstances you might face.
Check public transportation
If you have the money to purchase a new or used car in the country you are moving to, then you don’t have to worry about the city transportation of the town you wish to live. However, you have to be very cautious not to cause accidents when driving yourself. Using the public transportation is a good way to stay safe. That aside, you have to know about the routes with the most pickpockets and those that are safe. It’s true that while the public transportation can get you from one place to another, but if you don’t know your surroundings then the chances are that you could end up being mugged.
Have a list of emergency contacts
When working overseas, another safety tip that you should put into consideration is having the emergency numbers in case you need urgent help. Do your research and find out where the Philippines embassy is located and their phone numbers. For extra security, you should check where the nearest hospital, police station, and health clinics are located. Having such information will put you in a better position when you find yourself in a crisis.
Master laws of social practices
Learn how to behave yourself abroad to stay safe. For instance, you have to know about the driving laws, public intoxication regulations, and dealing with the government officials. It’s worth noting that some social practices that are accepted in the Philippines might not be acceptable overseas, so you must educate yourself on the social norms to stay secure.
Blend in
Blending in as much as possible is among the top security tips when working in another country. This means that you should follow common social customs, dress like the locals, enjoy the local cuisine, socialize just to mention a few. Mixing with the locals is the only way to avoid pickpockets, robbers or situations that might endanger your life. Research more about the local life before moving to the area to work.
Without any doubt, working abroad will give you a memorable experience. You will have the chance to advance your career and networks. Keeping in mind the safety tips as discussed above is the best way to stay safe and secure.