Preparation: Considering Singapore
Before booking that ticket to Singapore, you would need to consider a lot of things. First, would be to accept that going to Singapore (or any other country) for work is a risk. We've all heard the story of a Pinoy going out in the hopes that he'd find a better job and a better life abroad but came back home disappointed. Those stories are true and can happen. However, with perseverance and a little luck, we can find ways to avoid that.
Here are some tips to prepare yourself for a new life in SG (Singapore). I've arranged it in a sort of chronological manner so it would be easier to understand when and what to do.
Considering SG
Before even buying that ticket to SG, try to consider the following items first:
1. Consider your options at home.
What are your options at home (PH or where you are currently working). Then, weigh in your options in SG. Try to ask friends or former colleagues (i'm sure we all have one) who are now working in SG. Ask them about the following:
Also, research about the current trend in work opportunities by checking the news about SG and job-sites (Jobstreet, Jobs DB, Monster.sg).
In my observation, IT persons have the highest chance of getting a job here. So, if you're in the IT you can relax a little (just a little).
If you're pretty sure that there are far better opportunities in SG than in PH, then proceed with the other considerations.
2. Consider the other things if you are already in SG.
This would include mainly, the cost of living. It is expensive to live in Singapore! So, again ask your friends about the possible range of salary you might expect and the possible (minimum) budget you would need to live there. Then just do the simple math of additions and subtractions.
Compare your results with your budget in PH. If there isn't much difference, then it is not worth it. Of course, that would only be estimates but do try to do it as accurately as possible.
You should also factor in 'homesick-ness' and 'close family ties' that most Pinoys have. hehe.
Seriously though, you need to consider your possible 'need' to go back home every now and then to visit your family. Even with the ridiculous amount of advancements we have in communication (read: facebook, twitter, skype, ym, mobile phones) – it’s still different to actually be at home.
3. Check your skills.
You can practically cover the above 2 items in a week or two (but i suggest you take your time, so you'll have a very well thought of decision – and don’t blame me for whatever outcome of your decision). If you're decision still inclines towards going to SG, then the next to consider is your skills.
Well, to be honest, if you think you don’t have the faintest of skills to go abroad, don’t bother doing the first two things. hehe
Do you have the right skills AND documents to prove it?
Yes! Your documents are important. Nevermind that you are a genius at computers, if you don't have a diploma for it then you might as well try a different industry.
I can't stress this enough, diplomas and certifications are important in SG, especially for foreign workers. Transcripts are virtually not considered here.
Just make sure you have your diploma and other related certifications with you. Unless you are sponsored by a Company (which would basically deem this particular post moot), having your scholastic records are important. Even then, you might still need them. Collect all your docs now, before even buying your tickets.
Okay, at the very least you need to be comfortable speaking in English. Well, it’s a requirement going abroad and for this, certifications mean nothing if you’re not comfortable using the language.
4. $$$
Everything is almost set. Almost.
Next thing you need would be - MONEY. Since you’re doing this on your own, with out the sponsor of a company - you need to have enough savings/budget to sustain you to at least your first salary in SG. So save up!
I'll try to post a guide on how much money you should prepare for this endeavor.
Well, have you decided yet?
Here are some tips to prepare yourself for a new life in SG (Singapore). I've arranged it in a sort of chronological manner so it would be easier to understand when and what to do.
Considering SG
Before even buying that ticket to SG, try to consider the following items first:
1. Consider your options at home.
What are your options at home (PH or where you are currently working). Then, weigh in your options in SG. Try to ask friends or former colleagues (i'm sure we all have one) who are now working in SG. Ask them about the following:
- How is their life there?
- How is their work there?
- Are there any opportunities for work (in your field)?
Also, research about the current trend in work opportunities by checking the news about SG and job-sites (Jobstreet, Jobs DB, Monster.sg).
In my observation, IT persons have the highest chance of getting a job here. So, if you're in the IT you can relax a little (just a little).
If you're pretty sure that there are far better opportunities in SG than in PH, then proceed with the other considerations.
2. Consider the other things if you are already in SG.
This would include mainly, the cost of living. It is expensive to live in Singapore! So, again ask your friends about the possible range of salary you might expect and the possible (minimum) budget you would need to live there. Then just do the simple math of additions and subtractions.
Compare your results with your budget in PH. If there isn't much difference, then it is not worth it. Of course, that would only be estimates but do try to do it as accurately as possible.
You should also factor in 'homesick-ness' and 'close family ties' that most Pinoys have. hehe.
Seriously though, you need to consider your possible 'need' to go back home every now and then to visit your family. Even with the ridiculous amount of advancements we have in communication (read: facebook, twitter, skype, ym, mobile phones) – it’s still different to actually be at home.
3. Check your skills.
You can practically cover the above 2 items in a week or two (but i suggest you take your time, so you'll have a very well thought of decision – and don’t blame me for whatever outcome of your decision). If you're decision still inclines towards going to SG, then the next to consider is your skills.
Well, to be honest, if you think you don’t have the faintest of skills to go abroad, don’t bother doing the first two things. hehe
Do you have the right skills AND documents to prove it?
Yes! Your documents are important. Nevermind that you are a genius at computers, if you don't have a diploma for it then you might as well try a different industry.
I can't stress this enough, diplomas and certifications are important in SG, especially for foreign workers. Transcripts are virtually not considered here.
Just make sure you have your diploma and other related certifications with you. Unless you are sponsored by a Company (which would basically deem this particular post moot), having your scholastic records are important. Even then, you might still need them. Collect all your docs now, before even buying your tickets.
Okay, at the very least you need to be comfortable speaking in English. Well, it’s a requirement going abroad and for this, certifications mean nothing if you’re not comfortable using the language.
4. $$$
Everything is almost set. Almost.
Next thing you need would be - MONEY. Since you’re doing this on your own, with out the sponsor of a company - you need to have enough savings/budget to sustain you to at least your first salary in SG. So save up!
I'll try to post a guide on how much money you should prepare for this endeavor.
Well, have you decided yet?
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