The Philippines is a country with a rich cultural heritage, marked by a complex history of colonization and interaction with various cultures, including Spanish, American, and Asian. This history has shaped the Filipino identity and contributed to a unique blend of Asian and Western values that are evident in the modern workforce. This article delves into the cultural complexity of the Filipino employee and examines how their unique blend of values impacts the workplace.
The Influence of Asian Values:
The influence of Asian values, such as Confucianism and Buddhism, is evident in various aspects of Filipino culture, including language, customs, and traditions. These values have shaped the Filipino employee's approach to work and contributed to their unique work ethic and values.
- Respect for Authority: The influence of Confucianism has instilled a deep respect for authority in Filipino culture, contributing to a strong sense of discipline and order in the workplace. This respect for authority translates to a hierarchical approach to leadership, with a focus on respect for superiors and adherence to company policies.
- Sense of Harmony: The influence of Buddhism has instilled a sense of harmony and balance in Filipino culture, contributing to a strong sense of collaboration and teamwork in the workplace. This sense of harmony translates to a focus on maintaining positive relationships and building strong bonds among colleagues.
- Importance of Family: The importance of family in Asian culture is also evident in the Filipino approach to work, with a focus on providing for one's family and honoring the sacrifices that loved ones have made for their success.
The Influence of Western Values:
The Philippines' history of colonization by Spain and the United States has also influenced the modern Filipino employee's approach to work, contributing to a unique blend of Asian and Western values.
- Individualism: The influence of Western individualism is evident in the Filipino approach to work, with a focus on personal achievement and success. This individualistic approach is balanced by the Asian value of harmony, contributing to a strong sense of collaboration and teamwork.
- Entrepreneurial Spirit: The influence of American values has instilled a strong entrepreneurial spirit in Filipino culture, contributing to a focus on innovation and creativity in the workplace. This entrepreneurial spirit is balanced by the Asian value of respect for authority, contributing to a sense of order and structure in the workplace.
- Communication and Language Skills: The widespread use of English in the Philippines has made Filipino employees highly valued in international industries like business process outsourcing (BPO). The ability to communicate effectively in English and other languages has opened doors to global opportunities and positioned the Filipino workforce as an asset in the global marketplace.
The cultural complexity of the Filipino employee, marked by a unique blend of Asian and Western values, has shaped the modern workforce in the Philippines. The influence of Asian values, such as respect for authority and a sense of harmony, is balanced by the influence of Western values, such as individualism and an entrepreneurial spirit. The ability to navigate this cultural complexity is essential for effective cross-cultural collaboration and communication in the workplace. By understanding and embracing the unique blend of values that the Filipino employee brings to the workplace, employers can foster a positive and inclusive work environment that values diversity and promotes effective communication and collaboration among employees.