Upon returning to his hometown in northern Quang Ninh province in 2022, Hung underwent a four-month job hunt, submitting over 20 applications before securing a position in e-commerce, albeit with a starting salary of VND8 million ($320) per month – less than his expectations.
“I diligently scoured job platforms hourly, seeking an e-commerce role with a monthly pay between VND12 million to VND20 million,” Hung recounted. “However, upon landing a position, the offered salary remained fixed at VND8 million, non-negotiable.”
Hung felt disillusioned, considering this salary inadequate to recoup the VND15 billion invested in his education. Despite this, he persisted in the role for six months.
However, the disappointing pay was just one of the hurdles he faced. He encountered difficulties adapting to workplace norms, received tasks beyond his contract, and frequently worked overtime without compensation.
“Despite the company’s policy stipulating an eight-hour workday, the reality often extended to 10-12 hours, with no overtime pay,” Hung lamented. “This starkly contrasted with my past experiences where an eight-hour day meant precisely that.”
Hung’s predicament mirrors findings from a survey by SHD recruitment agency, which highlighted that 87% of Vietnamese graduates from foreign institutions struggled with cultural and workplace adaptation, while 83% expressed dissatisfaction with their compensation.
According to Ngo Thi Ngoc Lan of Navigos Search headhunt service, despite possessing confidence, language skills, and open-mindedness, graduates returning from abroad grapple with adjusting to Vietnam’s unique work culture, requiring more time to adapt compared to locally-educated peers.
Nam Phuong, holding a U.S. taxation degree, faced similar challenges. Despite investing VND6 billion in her education, it took her four months to secure a position offering a monthly salary of VND10 million, far from her anticipated VND20 million.
After enduring over a year of unfulfilling work, Nam Phuong sought opportunities abroad, driven by frustration over her degree’s undervaluation in Vietnam.
Le Thanh Ngan, Head of Recruitment at FPT Education, noted that foreign degree holders often overlook entry-level positions, complicating their job search and salary expectations.
Furthermore, the economic downturn poses an additional obstacle for returnees, as companies prioritize experienced staff over those needing extensive training.
Vu Hanh Hoa, CEO of a leadership training institute, emphasized the necessity for international graduates to adapt to Vietnamese society, its people, and work culture, advising them to focus on gaining practical experience rather than fixating on their degrees.
In light of companies prioritizing actual performance over academic qualifications, Hoa stressed the importance of contributing effectively to organizations.
Disheartened by lower earnings compared to his peers, Hung ventured into entrepreneurship, accumulating significant debt but uncertain financial returns.
In summary, overseas graduates in Vietnam face multifaceted challenges including cultural adaptation, salary expectations, and economic downturn, necessitating a pragmatic approach towards job-seeking and career development.