Expat Advice: Working in Manila, Philippines

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Manila

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

Everything is available, it is a thriving economy. But local wages are low, so don't expect to make US wages unless you're transferred here as an ex-pat on a US salary plan. Most people find jobs by word of mouth. In this place it is not so much what you know, but WHO you know that helps.

What type of work do you do and how did you find your job?

Finance and accounting management. Was transferred from my existing position in the USA.

How did you obtain your work permit? What advice would you have for others about work permits?

Legal experts and local attorneys took care of it.

Have you taken language and cross-cultural training courses to prepare for your assignment? If so, how have they helped you on the job?

No, but had previous foreign assignments in other parts of the world so am familiar with how to orient myself.

If you were transferred abroad by your employer, were you guaranteed a job upon repatriation? What type of mentoring programs does your employer offer?

Yes. No formal mentoring, but lots of informal opportunity.

What advice would you offer others about finding jobs and working abroad?

Keep an open mind and clue into subtle and not so subtle cultural differences. Find ways to use the strengths of the culture you're in to do the job. Look at it as an adventure. After all, it is not the United States. If that's what you want, you should just stay home.