INTRODUCTION
Seeking employment in a foreign country like Oman is a significant step that can bring about positive life changes. However, due to distance and differences in culture and legal systems, many job seekers, especially Tanzanians, find themselves making avoidable mistakes. These errors range from document preparation and choosing recruitment agencies to misunderstanding employment contracts. The importance of this article is to provide guidance and education to every Tanzanian intending to seek job opportunities in Oman. Within this article, we will thoroughly analyze the major mistakes to avoid, offer professional advice on the correct procedures to follow, and provide practical tips to ensure your job search process, whether for domestic work in Oman or cleaning jobs in Oman, is completed successfully and safely.
10 MISTAKES TO AVOID IN THE EMPLOYMENT PROCESS
To succeed in your journey of finding a job in Oman, it is crucial to be careful and avoid common pitfalls. Here we have listed ten major mistakes that many Tanzanians make, and how to avoid them.
1. Using Fake (Street) Agents: This is the biggest and most dangerous mistake. Many people have lost significant amounts of money and even gotten into legal trouble by using unofficial agents. These agents make empty promises of quick jobs and high salaries. How to Avoid: Only use agents registered and verified by the Tanzanian government, such as the Tanzania Employment Services Agency (TAESA). Ensure you research the agent before giving them any money or your documents.
2. Not Reading and Understanding the Employment Contract: Many people sign contracts without reading them carefully, often because they are written in English or Arabic. This leads to accepting harsh conditions, low salaries, and a lack of basic rights. How to Avoid: Never sign a contract you do not understand. Ask for a copy and find someone who knows the language to help you translate it. Ensure key elements like salary, working hours, accommodation, food, leave, and health insurance are clearly defined.
3. Providing False Information on a CV or Documents: In an attempt to impress an employer, some people exaggerate or provide false information about their education or experience. This is a criminal offense and can lead to termination and imprisonment. How to Avoid: Be truthful in all your information. State your actual skills and experience. Honesty is paramount.
4. Handing Over Your Passport to an Employer or Agent: Although it is illegal, some employers in Oman confiscate their employees' passports. This denies the employee freedom and makes them completely dependent on the employer. How to Avoid: Your passport is your property and that of the Tanzanian government. Do not agree to hand it over to anyone. If an employer insists, contact the Tanzanian Embassy in Oman immediately.
5. Not Researching the Employer and Work Environment: Rushing to accept a job offer without knowing the details of the company or the family you will be working for (for domestic jobs) is risky. How to Avoid: Use the internet to do your research. Look for the company's website, read reviews from other employees, and ask many questions during the interview.
6. Leaving the Country on a Tourist Visa Hoping to Find a Job: This is another trap. Entering Oman on a tourist visa and then starting to look for work is illegal. If caught, you could be imprisoned and deported. How to Avoid: Ensure you leave Tanzania with a valid employment visa sponsored by your employer. A work visa requires a permit from the Omani Ministry of Labour.
7. Not Knowing Your Basic Legal Rights: Many workers are unaware of how Oman's labor laws protect them. This makes them vulnerable to exploitation, long working hours without overtime pay, and denial of their rights. How to Avoid: Before you leave, find and read about the Oman Labour Law. Understand your rights regarding working hours, holidays, and payment.
8. Having No Contact with the Tanzanian Embassy: Many travel and start work without even informing the Tanzanian Embassy in Muscat. This makes it difficult to get help in an emergency. How to Avoid: As soon as you arrive in Oman, one of your first steps should be to contact the Embassy, register, and have their emergency contact numbers.
9. Disregarding Cultural and Religious Differences: Oman is an Islamic country with its own culture and laws. Not observing modest dress, using inappropriate language, or acting against the country's morals can get you into trouble. How to Avoid: Learn about Omani culture before you travel. Respect their traditions and customs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.
10. Not Having a Financial Backup Plan (Emergency Fund): Relying solely on your first salary is risky. Things can go wrong, and you might need emergency funds. How to Avoid: Before leaving, try to have a small amount of savings that can support you for the first few weeks or in case of an unexpected problem.
IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS OF THE EMPLOYMENT PROCESS
Understanding each step of the employment process in detail will help you avoid many mistakes and make informed decisions.
The Right Ways to Look for Job Opportunities in Oman
The success of finding a job in Oman for Tanzanians starts with using the right search methods. Instead of trusting the words of friends or unreliable individuals, consider these official and safe channels:
Tanzania Employment Services Agency (TAESA): This is a government institution that coordinates overseas employment matters. Going through TAESA ensures your safety and that your contract protects your rights.
Verified Private Agencies: There are private agencies licensed by the government. Before working with any agent, make sure to see their license and verify its legitimacy with the relevant authorities.
International Job Websites: Websites like LinkedIn, GulfTalent, and NaukriGulf are excellent platforms for finding professional jobs. However, be cautious of scammers who may use these platforms.
The Work Visa Process: What You Should Know
The mistake of not understanding the visa process can derail your journey. The employer is responsible for initiating and sponsoring the work visa process. The process typically involves:
Obtaining a Labour Clearance: Your employer must first obtain a permit from the Omani Ministry of Labour allowing them to hire a foreign worker.
Medical Examination: You will be required to undergo medical tests at an approved hospital to confirm you are free from infectious diseases.
Visa Application: After getting the clearance and health certificate, the employer submits a visa application to the Royal Oman Police.
Visa Stamping: Once you receive a copy of the visa, you will take it to the Omani Embassy in Tanzania to have it stamped in your passport. The fee for a work visa is approximately 20 Omani Rials.
The Importance of Preparing Correct Documents
Poor document preparation is a mistake that delays the process. Ensure you prepare the following correctly:
Passport: Ensure it has at least 6 months of validity.
Passport Photos: With a white background.
Educational/Professional Certificates: Make sure they are attested by relevant authorities like the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Omani Embassy.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): Written in English, concise, and clearly outlining your skills relevant to the job you are applying for.
ADVANTAGES AND CHALLENGES OF WORKING IN OMAN
Like any other place, working in Oman has two sides of the coin. It is important to know them to prepare yourself psychologically.
Advantages
Good Salaries: Compared to Tanzania, salaries for many jobs, including domestic and cleaning work, are higher and provide an opportunity to improve the family's standard of living.
Safe Environment: Oman is known for being a peaceful and stable country with low crime rates.
Cultural Proximity: The historical relationship between Tanzania (especially Zanzibar) and Oman makes the cultural environment less alien.
Legal Protection: The governments of Tanzania and Oman have been collaborating to improve worker protection, including signing bilateral agreements.
Challenges
The Kafala (Sponsorship) System: This system ties an employee to a single employer, making it difficult to change jobs or leave the country without that employer's permission.
Abuse and Harsh Conditions: Some workers, particularly in domestic work, have reported being forced to work excessively long hours, denied communication, and subjected to physical and psychological abuse.
Delayed Salary Payments: Although the Omani government has introduced the Wage Protection System (WPS), some employers still fail to pay on time.
Loneliness and Family Separation: Being away from family and friends for a long time is a major psychological challenge.
STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS AND ADDITIONAL TIPS
To avoid mistakes and succeed, consider these wise strategies:
Double-Check Everything: Do not just take someone's word for it. Verify the agent's legitimacy, confirm the job offer by contacting the company directly (if possible), and verify the contract terms.
Keep Copies of Your Documents: Send copies of your passport, visa, contract, and work ID to your family back home. Also, keep soft copies in your email.
Learn Basic Arabic Phrases: Knowing greetings and a few basic Arabic words can be very helpful in initial communications and shows respect.
Build a Network with Other Tanzanians: When you arrive in Oman, try to connect with other Tanzanians. The Tanzanian diaspora community can be a great support system in times of trouble.
Be Patient and Respectful: The first few months can be tough as you adjust to a new environment. Being patient and respecting the local culture will make your life easier.
CONCLUSION
The journey to find employment in Oman can be highly successful if you approach it with caution, knowledge, and by avoiding the common mistakes outlined in this article. The errors of using fake agents, not understanding your contract, and not knowing your rights are the main sources of problems faced by many Tanzanians. By following the advice provided, conducting thorough research, and using official channels, you position yourself not only to get a job but also to have a safe and productive experience in Oman. Remember, proper preparation is the key to your success in seeking job opportunities in Oman.
