Are you leading a remote team in the Philippines and feeling lost in translation? Here’s the shocker: it’s not about them not understanding your English, it’s about cracking the code of Filipino workplace culture. 

In this episode, Bryan bridges the communication gap by sharing experience-based insights to unlock the full potential of your remote Filipino workforce.

The Importance of Cultural Understanding: U.S. vs. PH

Building a strong, productive team starts with clear communication, especially when working with people offshore.

U.S. Business Communication Style

Understanding the common communication styles in U.S. business culture is crucial for comparison:

1. Direct and assertive communication: Americans tend to communicate in a straightforward manner, often preferring to get straight to the point.
2. Focus on deadlines and task completion: There is a strong emphasis on meeting deadlines and completing tasks efficiently.
3. Value for efficiency and brevity: Communication is often brief and to the point, avoiding unnecessary details.

Filipino Communication Style

Effective communication with Filipino employees requires an understanding of their work culture. Here are some key aspects:

1. Emphasis on respect and hierarchy: Filipinos use titles like Sir, Ma’am, Mr., and Ms. to show respect. This hierarchical approach is deeply ingrained in their culture.
2. Indirect or non-confrontational communication style: Filipinos often avoid direct confrontation. They might use subtle hints instead of outright statements.
3. Importance of building relationships: Filipinos like to connect with their workmates beyond work matters. Often, they ask about each others’ personal lives as a way to show that they care, thus maintaining workplace harmony. 
4. Reluctance to volunteer information: Filipinos may not offer information unless specifically asked, to avoid seeming too assertive, especially with higher-ups.

Bridging the Communication Gap

To effectively communicate with Filipino employees, consider these actionable tips:

1. Be mindful of your tone: Since Filipinos are non-confrontational, they can feel offended by directness or aggression in tone. Adopt a more gentle and respectful approach.
2. Practice concise and clear communication: Avoid curtness, sarcasm, slang, and highly localized expressions. While Filipinos understand English, cultural nuances might be lost. Aim for clear and straightforward language.
3. Prompt them for questions: Encourage open communication and feedback, as Filipinos may hesitate to ask questions or share their thoughts. Be patient and create a welcoming environment for dialogue.
4. Show respect and appreciation: Publicly acknowledge and appreciate Filipino employees’ contributions. This fosters a positive and motivating work culture.
5. Utilize a variety of communication channels: Use both written and verbal communication to cater to different preferences. This ensures that all team members stay informed and engaged.

Understanding and respecting cultural differences is essential for successful collaboration with a remote team in the Philippines. By adopting these strategies, U.S. business owners can bridge the communication gap and unlock the full potential of their Filipino workforce. 

Watch the full video for more personal insights and actual applications from Bryan! 

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