BUSINESS
ETIQUETTE &
PRACTICES IN THE
PHILIPPINES
August 2 2022
jhetty Bird C. Batiancila
BSA 3-B
Business Etiquette and Practices in the Philippines
Business transactions are always best conducted face-to-face in a
cozy and welcoming setting because the business environment in the
Philippines is heavily reliant on interpersonal connections. Filipinos are
oblique, in contrast to Danes and many other Westerners who are often
forthright and prefer to get right to the point. Before getting to the
business meeting's primary agenda, they love introducing themselves,
telling a joke or two, and talking about their respective friends and
families. For a Filipino, making friends, creating useful contacts, and
establishing a rapport with someone personally advance business.
Philippine Culture: Behavior, Culture, Business Etiquette, and
Language
Similar to other Asian countries, society in the Philippines employs a
hierarchy. It's crucial to know who to approach first, so make sure you
get in touch with the appropriate individual. Connecting with employees
at lower levels won't help you, so keep your head up. Target the
middlemen because they can help your opportunity and deal to
succeed. As a result, in this company culture, connection is crucial.
Remain true to your word and your commitments. Filipinos avoid
disagreement by being as oblique as they can. Their warm demeanor
doesn't necessarily indicate that the business is going well because
hospitality and friendliness are inherent traits. They could wish to keep
things informal to prevent confrontations. You should also grasp the
corporate etiquette of presenting gifts.
Know the local ethics in the area in addition to the business etiquette
and procedures. Never make light of religion, and stay out of each
other's business. Avoid using aggressive gestures like making direct eye
contact, tapping, or expressing issues up close. Filipino culture,
particularly in the business culture, is a blend of moral principles with
enthusiastic activities. Avoid overdressing and wear the appropriate
clothing to meetings.
Additional Points to consider
Filipino business culture is hierarchical, with the person of highest
status approving all final decisions but group consensus is still
necessary for all decisions before it reaches this person.
Verbal agreements are adhered to on the basis of trust. If you break
them, you will jeopardise your business relationships.
Because they can be preoccupied with avoiding hiya (shame or
embarrassment), a Filipino is unlikely to directly refuse a proposal or
reject something you say, even when they do not agree with it.
Therefore, focus on hints of hesitation. Listen to what they say, but
also pay close attention to what they don’t say (and might implicitly
mean) and double check your understanding.
Essential Etiquette Tips
Understanding that family-owned conglomerates run business in the
Philippines is essential. Finding a reliable person within the organization
who can function as your guide through its complexity is thus a good
option.
It takes time and effort to develop ties with Filipino companies. Remember
that Filipinos like taking their time, so don't rush anything.
Shake it up: In the Philippines, a formal greeting entails a firm handshake, a
smile, and casual eye contact.
Watch the clock: Being on time is desirable, yet there is some leeway for
being late if it is necessary due to traffic.
Put your electronics away: Using a phone during a meeting is generally
frowned upon in the Philippines, but if you are in an unusual situation, they
will understand. Informing the other person that you might be interrupted
beforehand would assist to defuse the issue.
Batiancila, Jhetty Bird C. BSA 3-B