The Philippines has a very rich culture, an excellent education system and a high work ethic. It is recognised globally as one of the largest English-speaking nations with most of its population having at least some degree of fluency. English has always been one of the official languages of the Philippines and is spoken by more than 14 million Filipinos.
Filipinos are very skilled, talented and professional in what they do. If you are planning to outsource employees from the Philippines, there are some characteristics you should take note of to get to know how they are as an employee and how to better enjoy working with them.
Filipinos are family oriented and often religious with an appreciation for art, fashion, music and food. They are known for their hospitality and love to have a good time. This often includes getting together to sing, dance, and eat. Their annual calendar is packed with festivals.
Their top 5 characteristics are:
1. Politeness
All Filipinos, as part of their rich culture, grew up respecting their elder. Filipinos treat older people with respect and politeness. You might often hear the words “po” and “opo” which is something they use to imply respect towards older people.
Filipino employees will usually formally address those in higher authority. For example, they will typically address you as Sir or Ma’am. You can ask them to address you more casually or by using your first name, however, the chances are they will still refer to you as Sir/Ma’am as a mark of respect.
2. Family Oriented
One important characteristic of a Filipino employee is their love for their family. In the UK, US and other Western countries, children are expected to move out of the family home in their twenties or thirties and live independently. While some Filipinos do this, it is not usual. Most Filipinos stay with their parents to take care of them and assist them.
You must take into consideration that a Filipino employee will put their family first as much as possible and they will prefer a working environment which gives them a work-life balance.
3. Dedicated
Although Filipino employees are family oriented and prefers a working environment that promotes work-life balance, they are still very dedicated and hard workers. They will always provide you with the best quality of work and service.
It is no surprise that this dedication has resulted in many businesses from different countries looking to outsource work to the Philippines.
Filipinos are innately concerned and genuinely care for the company they work for and want nothing but success for the business. As long as they are treated well and respected as a person, you will always receive the highest support and service from them.
4. Kind and Friendly
Sometimes, you will come across employees who are cold, distant and who prefer to work alone. This is not the case for Filipinos. Most, if not all, Filipino employees are kind and friendly, a characteristic that many business owners appreciate.
It is already embedded in a Filipino’s personality to be kind and friendly. Offering help to colleagues in any way they can is part of their nature.
Working with a Filipino employee is life changing and an experience you would not want to miss nor forget. Their cultures, beliefs, and characteristics are remarkable, and it shows in the quality of work that they provide for you.
5. Generosity
Filipinos are naturally helpful and generous people. They give as much as they can and extend help to family members, friends and strangers when needed. This is seen through the abundance of charity drives and foundations in the country, especially following a disaster.
If you are looking for a Filipino accountant that can help you with your business in a variety of ways, then please contact us today.
