The work doesn’t end after building a world-class team offshore in the Philippines. To truly make the most out of their talents and skills, you first have to build great rapport.

Perhaps you’ve already built an incredible team in the Philippines—full of talented, driven individuals ready to take your business to the next level. It’s an exciting time! But before you sit back and relax, you should be building rapport with your Filipino team. Why? Because, as with any successful operation offshore or otherwise, communication and collaboration are key to making things work seamlessly.

Understanding Filipino Work Culture

To build rapport with your team, it’s important to first understand the basics of Filipino work culture. Here’s what you need to know:

• Strong Team Relationships

In the Philippines, work isn’t just about tasks and deadlines; it’s about relationships. Filipinos place a high value on building and maintaining good relationships with their co-workers, often viewing their team as a second family. This sense of belonging creates a strong bond that drives collaboration and loyalty within the team.

• Respectful Communication

Respect is deeply ingrained in Filipino culture, and this extends to the workplace. Filipinos use honorifics like “Ma’am,” “Sir,” “Miss,” or even “Boss” when addressing their superiors and colleagues. While it’s common in the US to be on a first-name basis, Filipinos might find this uncomfortable at first. It’s important to respect their preference for formality, as it’s a sign of the respect they have for you.

Additionally, Filipinos tend to communicate less directly than what you might be used to. While Americans may prefer straightforward, frank discussions, Filipinos often approach conversations with a softer touch to avoid confrontation. Being patient and creating a safe environment where they feel comfortable sharing is crucial.

You’ll also hear “po” and “opo” frequently in conversations—these are terms of respect used when speaking to elders or those in authority.

Tips on Building Rapport with Filipino Employees

Now that you have a better grasp on Filipino work culture, here are some practical tips to build rapport with your team:

• Celebrate Milestones 

Filipinos love to celebrate, whether it’s a big win or a small achievement. Recognizing these moments can significantly boost morale. Something as simple as ordering pizza or pansit (a popular Filipino noodle dish) for the team can go a long way. For remote teams, consider sending e-cards or vouchers they can use to celebrate to acknowledge these milestones. It’s about making your team feel seen and appreciated.

• Recognize Cultural Holidays

Cultural holidays are important in the Philippines, and allowing your team to enjoy these days shows respect for their traditions. Even if your team is required to work during a holiday, being mindful of their workload or sending a small token like food to the office can help build rapport. A simple greeting or well-wish can also demonstrate cultural sensitivity and foster a sense of inclusion.

• Embrace “Kamustahan” (Checking In)

Regular “kamustahan” sessions or check-ins are a great way to connect with your team beyond work-related matters. Filipinos appreciate it when their bosses show genuine concern for their well-being. These informal chats allow you to get to know your team members personally and understand what motivates them to perform at their best.

• Understand and Respect Shift Schedules

Time zone differences are part of the deal when working with an offshore team. It’s important to respect the shift schedules that have been set, especially when it comes to response time and production deadlines. Offering flexible working arrangements, particularly for those working night shifts locally, can help maintain a healthy work-life balance for your team.

• Show Interest in Filipino Culture

Take the time to learn about Filipino culture, holidays, and traditions. Ask your team members about their favorite dishes, festivals, or family traditions. Sharing a bit about your own culture can create a meaningful exchange that helps you connect on a deeper level.

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Good communication and collaboration with your offshore team are only possible when you’ve built a strong rapport with them. We hope this episode has given you valuable insights into how to achieve that with your Filipino team.

If you’re planning to build an offshore team in the Philippines, Tahche is here to support you—not just in recruitment but also in management and building rapport with your team. Our support staff is ready to help you navigate the nuances of Filipino work culture and ensure a successful partnership.

Watch the full episode for more information on doing business in the Philippines plus personal insights from Bryan!

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