Personal Reflections: Adjusting Career Expectations and Embracing Hard Work
Welcome, Essential Worker – Sort Of:
“Welcome, essential worker,” they say. But hold on, what did you say your profession was again? Ah, content writing. Not a doctor? Not an engineer? Just content… writing content for websites. There’s that knowing smile, the one that says: “We’ll see what we have for you here.” There’s a lot of talk about “lifting,” about using the parts above my fingers, maybe for work with hazardous materials. Locals don’t want to do that kind of work, and here I am, a foreigner, ready to take on what others leave behind.
Facing Reality in the Job Market:
Habibi, let me tell you something: It’s humbling. You realize that the respect you earn in one place doesn’t always translate to another. Here, they’re looking at me like I’m an “al kefak” guy – someone who won’t flinch at hard work. Writing content doesn’t mean much here, where they value the tangible, the physical. They might pay me, yes, but I’ll stay on the edges of their society. No one’s rolling out the red carpet for an outsider like me.
Self-Worth in a Foreign Society:
What I had back home – the confidence, the contacts, the reputation – none of it carries over here. But that’s the trade-off, isn’t it? Moving is more than geography; it’s learning to reshape your pride. Here, I won’t be rubbing shoulders with anyone influential; I’ll just be a foreigner doing the work others won’t. And that’s okay – for now. I remind myself that this is part of the journey, the dues I pay to settle here, even if it means working my way up from the bottom once again.
Final Thoughts
Immigration isn’t about picking up where you left off. It’s about starting over, even if that means letting go of titles and expectations. In this new place, I’m not the content writer; I’m the worker, the foreigner, the person lifting what others won’t. Maybe one day, they’ll know me for more than that. But for now, this is where I belong – at the beginning, building from the ground up.
Step-by-Step Guide: Preparing for the Job Market in a New Country
- Research the Local Job Market
Before relocating, familiarize yourself with the job opportunities and industries in demand in your destination country. Knowing which professions are valued can give you an idea of your potential career path and help you set realistic expectations. If your field isn’t highly sought after, consider how you might adapt your skills to fit available roles. - Be Open to Temporary or Transition Roles
Moving abroad often means accepting roles outside your usual profession, especially at the beginning. Temporary jobs or physical work can be a way to earn while you establish yourself. Accepting a less glamorous role doesn’t diminish your skills; it’s a step that many newcomers take as they find their footing.
- Leverage Any Local Contacts or Networks
If you have acquaintances or friends in the destination country, reach out to them. Networking is a valuable tool, and sometimes, informal connections can lead to unexpected opportunities or helpful advice on navigating the local workforce. - Consider Certification or Skills Training
Depending on your field, it may be necessary to get certified or complete specific training recognized in the new country. Explore local courses, workshops, or online certifications that align with in-demand skills. This can increase your chances of landing a position closer to your expertise. - Set Realistic Financial and Social Expectations
Financially, prepare for the possibility of starting with a lower salary or an entry-level position. Socially, understand that being a foreigner can sometimes make integration challenging. While job opportunities will come, establishing yourself in local circles may take time and patience.
Written by Wa Alikum Salam, Immigrant.
