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!

 

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The Philippine Business Playbook podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. 

 

 

Filipino food is more than just delicious; it’s a window into the heart of Filipino culture. Sharing a meal isn’t just about eating—it’s your secret weapon for building a stronger, happier Filipino team.

 

Filipinos have an undeniable love for food. They eat when they celebrate, they eat when they encounter a loss, and they eat when they spend time with friends and family. Because of how much Filipinos love food, it’s a foolproof way to bond and ease your way into a Filipino’s heart. 

 

In this episode, Bryan explores how this deep-rooted love for food translates into workplace dynamics and how it can be a powerful tool for building camaraderie and trust within your team.

 

The Significance of Eating Together in Filipino Culture

 

Sharing meals is a cornerstone of Filipino culture, symbolizing unity and connection. When Filipinos eat together, it’s more than just a routine; it’s a gesture of camaraderie. Offering food is an invitation to be part of one’s inner circle, and participating in this tradition can help build trust and respect within your team.

 

Meal times are when Filipinos tend to let their guard down, sharing stories that range from light-hearted banter to more serious discussions about family and life. By joining your Filipino employees during these moments, you gain insights into their lives, allowing you to better understand their needs and how to support them. This not only strengthens your relationship but also enhances the overall team dynamic.

 

Building Camaraderie Through Food

 

Filipino food is a delicious journey that goes far beyond adobo. Exploring different Filipino dishes can be a fun way to connect with your team and even spark casual conversations about their favorite meals. This shared experience can encourage open communication and create a positive, light-hearted atmosphere in the workplace.

 

Trying their food also shows your team that you’re interested in their culture. Filipinos take great pride in their cuisine, and they appreciate when others show curiosity about their dishes. 

 

At Tahche, food is an integral part of employee engagement activities. From celebratory dinners featuring traditional Filipino dishes to team lunches at local eateries, these gatherings have become a beloved tradition that fosters stronger bonds and a sense of belonging within the team.

 

Quick Tips for Eating with Your Team

 

When dining with your Filipino team, here are a few tips to enhance the experience:

 

1. Start with a prayer: Many Filipinos are Catholic, so don’t be surprised if meals begin with a blessing.
2. Be adventurous: Keep an open mind and try new Filipino dishes.
3. Ask questions: Show interest in the food and its cultural significance. It’s a great way to learn and connect.
4. Share your experiences: Talk about your favorite dishes or food traditions from your own culture.
5. Respect local table etiquette: Offering a taste of their food is a sign of hospitality, and sharing a shot glass for drinks can be a cultural norm.
6. Relax and enjoy: Most importantly, have fun and embrace the opportunity to connect with your team on a deeper level.

 

Sharing meals with your Filipino team goes beyond just eating—it’s a powerful way to build strong relationships rooted in trust and mutual respect. By embracing Filipino food and culture, you’ll create a work environment that fosters collaboration, open communication, and happiness.

 

If you’re looking for more ways to connect with your Filipino team, Tahche is here to help. We provide support and guidance in Filipino team management, offering real insights from Filipinos who know the culture inside out.

 

Watch the full episode for more information and personal insights from Bryan!

 

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The Philippine Business Playbook podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. 

Forget Silicon Valley—there’s a new offshoring hotspot that’s ready to surprise you. Nestled in the heart of the Philippines, Cebu City is not just a tropical paradise with sparkling beaches but also a thriving business hub filled with much potential.

 

If you’re looking for a strategic, cost-effective location to grow your business, Cebu City might just take your breath away.

 

Join Bryan in this episode of “The Philippine Business Playbook” podcast as he explores the advantages of building your offshore office in Cebu City. 

 

Welcome to Cebu City: The Perfect Blend of Beauty and Talent

 

Cebu City, located in the vibrant region of Southeast Asia, is home to stunning sights like the pristine beaches of Mactan Island, the historical Magellan’s Cross, and the picturesque mountain views from Tops Lookout. But beyond its natural beauty, Cebu City boasts a bustling central business district filled with a talented and skilled global workforce.

 

The Advantages of Doing Business in Cebu

 

1. Cost-Effectiveness

 

One of the most compelling reasons to consider Cebu for your offshoring needs is its cost-effectiveness. The operational costs in Cebu are significantly lower than in the U.S., covering everything from office space to salaries. This isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about taking advantage of the lower cost of living in the Philippines, especially in cities outside Metro Manila like Cebu.

 

Moreover, the Philippine government offers various incentives for businesses, particularly in the BPO sector. For example, employees working night shifts, often due to international business hours, receive a Night Shift Differential Pay. This means they earn 10% more for every hour worked between 10 PM and 6 AM, making it easier to attract and retain top talent.

 

2. A Skilled Workforce

 

Cebu is home to a large pool of highly qualified, English-speaking professionals. Thanks to a strong educational system, these professionals are not only well-versed in their respective fields but also easily integrate into international business environments. This makes employee training and onboarding a breeze compared to offshoring in other countries.

 

3. Infrastructure and Connectivity

 

Cebu City’s infrastructure is rapidly developing, with modern office spaces and reliable internet connectivity becoming the norm. The city even benefits from Starlink, alongside other internet providers, ensuring that your business stays connected. This robust infrastructure, combined with a growing business scene, makes Cebu a great investment for companies looking to expand.

 

4. Culture and Lifestyle

 

Beyond the office, Cebu offers a pleasant tropical climate and beautiful scenery. Employees enjoy the best of both worlds: air-conditioned offices during the day and summer-like weather with easy access to actual beaches after work.

 

Cebuano culture is another significant advantage. Known for their hospitality, Filipinos, including Cebuanos, are welcoming and well-versed in U.S. culture, making cultural integration seamless. The thriving social scene in Cebu is also a draw, with a variety of restaurants, bars, and parks that cater to all tastes. And let’s not forget the world-famous Cebuano lechon—a culinary experience you won’t want to miss.

 

Addressing Potential Concerns

 

Of course, operating in a new location can raise concerns, but Cebu City offers solutions.

 

• Time zone differences? No problem. Flexible work arrangements and shift adjustments can easily bridge the gap, as discussed in a previous episode of The Philippine Business Playbook podcast on “How to do business with a time difference.”
• Cultural adjustments? Not as challenging as you might think. If you’re tuned into this channel, you’re already on the right track. Filipinos are known for their adaptability and willingness to learn. It also helps that they have a highly westernized culture, which makes the cultural transition smooth and even enjoyable. Plus, working with Filipinos often means enjoying good food—so prepare to eat more with your team!
• Language barrier? The Philippines in general, including Cebu City, is known for its population’s high proficiency in English. You won’t be having any problem there. 
• Remote management? It can be challenging at first, but with the right guidance, you can easily jump through the hurdles. For example, having your remote team work in an office rather than at home will help a lot. 

 

Cebu City is more than just a tropical paradise; it’s a strategic, cost-effective, and culturally rich destination for offshoring. With a skilled workforce, modern infrastructure, and a vibrant lifestyle, Cebu offers everything you need to grow your business. If you’re considering offshoring, it’s time to take a closer look at what Cebu City has to offer.

 

Watch the full episode for more information and personal insights from Bryan!

 

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The Philippine Business Playbook podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. 

In this episode of “The Philippine Business Playbook” podcast, Bryan shares his journey as an entrepreneur who successfully grew his business in the Philippines. Through his story, he aims to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs, offering motivation and valuable insights for those navigating the challenges of growing a business overseas.

 

Becoming a Business Owner

 

From the very beginning, Bryan had an entrepreneurial spirit. His journey started in childhood, where he exhibited a natural inclination towards business, selling shoes and caring for neighbors’ lawns. 

 

Later on, he went to college, getting an engineering degree like most of his family. His light bulb moment came when, as a practicing engineer, he had a conversation with a cousin in the same industry and saw through him that engineering work in the Philippines is quite similar to what was being done in the U.S. Seeing the potential of Filipino professionals, he thought of connecting them with U.S. businesses, starting with his family members. Offering his cousin work led to the founding of Tahche. What started as a small business aimed at helping his own family soon grew into a company that connects hundreds of Filipino professionals with businesses in the U.S. and around the globe.

 

Bryan also shares how his small business rapidly outgrew its initial office spaces, enduring the challenges of small offices and even brownouts. However, his commitment to providing better service to clients led him to continually seek improvement. Today, Tahche operates out of a first-class building in Cebu, equipped with stable internet connections, generator backups, and everything clients could want in an offshore office.

 

Facing Business Challenges

 

As with any entrepreneurial journey, Bryan faced numerous challenges in growing Tahche. In the early 2010s, the world was still adjusting to technologies like Skype that made offshoring teams more accessible. Despite these technological hurdles and doubts about the budding offshoring industry, Tahche stood out by upholding honesty as a key value, which helped build trust with clients who were new to this way of working.

 

The challenges didn’t stop there. During the pandemic, many businesses faced setbacks due to lockdowns. But Tahche faced it strategically, caring for its employees well to keep the business going. Despite incurring additional costs to support employees with hazard pay, free food at the office, shuttles, and more, Tahche saw its biggest growth yet. 

 

Bryan’s commitment to innovation and his human-centric approach enabled Tahche to not only survive but thrive during these uncertain times.

 

Growing the Business

 

In the early days of Tahche, Bryan had to wear multiple hats to run the business. As the company expanded, he recognized the importance of filling his weak spots with the right experts, putting people in the right roles. Learning to delegate was crucial as the organization grew as well. 

 

Bryan emphasizes the importance of positioning oneself for growth and continuously improving teams to meet changing needs.

 

Looking into the Future

 

Tahche’s future is bright, with ongoing expansions happening at its offices in Cebu and Metro Manila. The company is adding an entire new floor to its Cebu location and more workspaces in Metro Manila. 

 

Bryan also shares an exciting development: Tahche is building an app that will offer users a familiar online recruitment experience, enhanced with improved quality of services. Unlike freelancer platforms, Tahche’s model focuses on full-time recruitment, allowing businesses to build real relationships with offshore and remote employees.

 

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Bryan’s journey from a small business owner to the CEO of a thriving company in the Philippines goes to show that resilience, innovation, and commitment can truly go a long way. 

 

Watch the full video for the full story of how Bryan started and grew his business in the Philippines! 

 

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The Philippine Business Playbook podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. 

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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If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The Philippine Business Playbook podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. 

Working with offshore employees on platforms like Upwork can present a myriad of challenges, particularly when dealing with time zone differences. There are frustrations about communication issues, the necessity of waking up at odd hours to communicate with offshore teams, and the occasional need to step in and complete tasks yourself. 

 

If you’re experiencing the same, you’re in the right place. This episode of “The Philippine Business Playbook Podcast” is dedicated to sharing tips on overcoming the hurdles of time differences when managing an offshore team.

 

The ideal scenario: 24/7 Operations

 

One of the most significant advantages of having offshore teams is the potential for 24/7 operations. Imagine having a team that works overnight while you’re asleep, ensuring that progress is made around the clock. This setup can lead to increased productivity and quicker turnaround times, providing a competitive edge in the market.

 

Strategies to overcome time zone-related challenges

 

To make the most of an offshore team, especially when dealing with time differences, consider implementing the following strategies:

 

1. Have a great communication plan

Effective communication is the backbone of successful offshore collaboration. Here are some key points to consider:

• Tools: Utilize reliable communication tools that suit your team’s needs to facilitate real-time communication and keep everyone connected.
• Set meeting times: Schedule regular meetings at mutually convenient times. This ensures that everyone stays on the same page and can address issues promptly.
• Summary emails: Have your team send detailed summary emails at the end of the day to document decisions, action items, and next steps. This practice helps in maintaining clarity and accountability.
• Set expectations: Clearly outline what is expected in terms of communication frequency and channels. Overcommunicate to avoid misunderstandings and ensure everyone is aligned.

 

2. Optimize schedules

Depending on the nature of the work and the level of interaction required, optimize the schedules of your remote team to ensure maximum efficiency:

• Partial overlap: If real-time collaboration is crucial, ensure there is a partial overlap of working hours between your team and their U.S./international counterparts.
• Full overlap: For tasks requiring constant interaction, consider having full overlap of working hours. This may involve adjusting work shifts to suit both teams.
• Day and night shifts: As your business grows, you can have dedicated day shift and night shift employees to fully cover bases and ensure timely deliverables effectively.

 

3. Foster a team culture and core values around communication

Building a strong team culture that emphasizes communication is essential, especially when working with a crew that operates independently:

• Core values: Instill core values that prioritize open and transparent communication.
• Regular check-ins: Conduct regular check-ins to ensure that team members feel connected and supported.
• Encourage feedback: Create an environment where team members are encouraged to provide feedback and share their concerns.

 

4. Set up processes for proper documentation
Proper documentation is critical for ensuring that everyone is on the same page:

• Standardized processes: Implement standardized processes and even wordings for documentation to ensure consistency and clarity.
• Accessible repositories: Use centralized repositories where all documents and project updates are stored and easily accessible.
• Regular updates: Ensure that documentation is regularly updated to reflect the latest information and developments.

 

5. Use appropriate communication tools

Leveraging the right tools can make a significant difference in managing an offshore team effectively:

• Project management software: Use tools like Trello, Asana, or Jira to track tasks and project progress.
• Collaboration platforms: Platforms like Google Workspace or Microsoft Office 365 facilitate collaboration on documents and spreadsheets.
• Status updates: Implement tools that provide real-time status updates on tasks, ensuring everyone knows what needs to be done and the current state of projects.

 

Overcoming the challenges of time differences when working with an offshore team requires strategic planning and effective communication. By following the strategies outlined above, businesses can optimize their operations and leverage the full potential of their offshore teams.

 

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

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If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The Philippine Business Playbook podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. 

In the latest episode of “The Philippine Business Playbook” podcast, Bryan dives into the unique intersection of business and pleasure available in the Philippines. This episode promises to reveal how life can be like for CEOs with an offshore team in the country. 

 

Flying to the Philippines

 

Frequent trips to the Philippines are a necessity for Bryan, who is known for his hands-on leadership approach. While acknowledging how the trip from New York to the Philippines can be quite long, he assures how it is sure to be worth it once one arrives in the beautiful tropical country. Meanwhile, he shares some of his go-to activities while flying such as watching movies and listening to podcasts.

 

Tahche’s strategic location

 

Bryan emphasizes Tahche’s strategic position for clients doing business in the Philippines. Located in Cebu City, Philippines, it is at the heart of a highly developed area. 1Nito Tower, it’s office building, is also geared with high-speed internet, generator backups, and complete modern amenities for offshore teams. 

 

Building strong connections

 

For Bryan, visiting the Philippines is crucial for maintaining strong connections with his offshore teams. Once in the country, Bryan takes the opportunity to connect directly with staff, team leaders and managers who oversee Tahche’s day-to-day operations. These face-to-face interactions allow him to share not only strategic directions, vision, and energy, but also develop personal connections and empathy, ultimately fostering stronger relationships and better teamwork. 

 

Quarterly meetings in the Philippines are another critical aspect of Bryan’s trips. These sessions are essential for addressing important business planning and tackling on-the-ground issues. The immediate feedback and free flowing conversation during these meetings ensures that Bryan and his management team are aligned and operating efficiently. The need for him to be on the same wavelength as his management team is crucial for running a tight ship.

 

Mixing business with pleasure

 

After all the hard work, Bryan emphasizes the importance of bonding with staff beyond the office setting. Transitioning to the fun side of the visit, he shares his experiences with the Tahche Cheetahs, Tahche’s basketball team with whom he played a game during a local basketball tournament. These types of activities provide a chance to get to know team members on a personal level, fostering a more human connection within the company.

 

Bryan’s trips also often include visiting new restaurants that seem to be opening every day in Cebu. One of the stops he made in his last trip is NUSTAR, a 5-star integrated resort where he brought clients. It’s his way of emphasizing that when they come to the Philippines, they get a first class experience.

 

On company culture and community engagement

 

Company culture developed through company events is another thing that Bryan highlights. Company events are something he looks forward to. Recently, he celebrated with employees  from all over the Philippines at the Tahchella Festival, a summer event hosted by Tahche.  It had everything from team-building activities to live band performances and a sumptuous dinner, giving employees a chance to bond during a night they won’t be forgetting any time soon. With activities like this, Tahche ensures that offshore teams are motivated to work excellently and cohesively with their teams.

 

Each of Bryan’s visits is packed with purposeful activities, including community-building and giving back through Tahche’s corporate social responsibility (CSR)  initiatives. During his last visit, he had the opportunity to join the CSR event at Banilad Elementary School where Tahche volunteers painted the school back to its former glory. The initiative is part of Tahche’s commitment to building up future Filipino professionals and contributing positively to the local community.

 

Personal trips and an anniversary

 

The episode concludes with Bryan sharing how he celebrated his wedding anniversary at Kandaya Resort in Cebu. An amazing place where they were able to enjoy the Philippines’ world-renowned beaches and hospitality, Bryan and his wife Delores made the most of their special day.

 

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All these in just one trip! Truly, business and pleasure in the Philippines is a must!

 

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

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If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The Philippine Business Playbook podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. 

Ever wondered why some employees shine while others fade into the background? The secret often lies in the questions asked during the interview.

 

In this episode, Bryan shares his top five interview questions for hiring top employees. These questions go beyond the resume to uncover the true ability and potential of each candidate.

 

Question 1:Can you tell us about a time when you faced a significant challenge at work and how you overcame it?

 

This question gives you insights on a job candidate’s problem-solving skills and resilience. It also gives them the chance to brag about their achievements, which you might want to consider, especially when you want to replicate those successes within your company. 

 

Question 2: How do you prioritize your tasks when you have multiple deadlines to meet?

 

This question evaluates a job candidate’s time management and organizational skills. When they are asked this question and they are able to provide examples of past experiences and strategies used for prioritization, you will know how they act under pressure and how mature they are as a professional.

 

Question 3: Can you tell us about a time when you worked in a team, what your role was, and how you contributed to the team’s success?

 

This question determines teamwork, collaboration, and leadership abilities. It also reveals a job candidate’s specific contributions and explores how they handle different personalities at work. 

Plus, their answer gives you an idea of what the employee is comfortable with, how they prefer to be led, and if they jive with the company culture. 

 

Question 4: What motivates you to perform at your best?

 

This question reveals the candidate’s intrinsic and extrinsic motivators. It lets you identify how to pull the most out of an employee, whether it’s through money, promotion, leadership, or others. With this information, you can properly design compensation, benefits, and employee engagement activities so they can perform at a 100% and you can keep them as your rockstar employee. It makes it easier to be a leader to your potential employee. 

 

Question 5: If you were part of a bank heist, would you be the planner, the getaway guy, or the gunman? 

 

This fun question breaks the ice and reveals the type of role the job candidate prefers and what attitude you can expect from them. For example, someone who chooses to be a getaway guy may prefer to play it safe while someone who chooses to be the gunman may prefer to be the leader at front. Furthermore, it allows the job candidate to provide additional feedback via their explanations for their choices and actions.

 

Watch the full video for personal insights and anecdotes from Bryan!

 

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If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The Philippine Business Playbook podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. 

There’s no question that work-from-home has gained a lot of popularity, especially among the younger generation of workers. But from one CEO to another, Bryan maintains that a work-in-office setup remains preferable. And this episode of “The Philippine Business Playbook” delves into the reasons why.

 

Enhanced collaboration 

 

Face-to-face interaction fosters effective collaboration and builds strong team dynamics. After all, personal connections built within an in-office team are founded on hours spent together, jokes shared by the water cooler, and shared experiences within the office. They often surpass relationships developed within remote teams, which get to interact via video calls and only during meetings. 

 

Employees in an in-office team are more open and comfortable in sharing ideas with one another, with feedback coming faster and in a more fun and effective manner. 

 

Real-time communication efficiency

 

Direct, in-person communication offers unparalleled efficiency and immediacy. Urgent needs can be addressed promptly in an office setting, without the delays experienced with remote communication. No accidental muting of mics, slow internet lag, and distracting background noise during meetings. 

 

In turn, immediate responses lead to higher productivity and effective problem-solving within the team.

 

Supervision and performance monitoring

 

In-office supervision ensures accountability and quality of work. While online tools for remote monitoring exist, employees can find ways to bypass them, leading to trust issues and reduced efficiency. In an office setting, employees can work, brainstorm, and take necessary breaks while being monitored for productivity by HR, not just software. 

 

In-office presence also allows for timely coaching, feedback, and a better understanding of employees’ soft skills, such as leadership and empathy. Evaluating remote employees fairly is challenging without observing their work in action.

 

Nurturing company culture and engagement

 

Physical presence is crucial for fostering company culture, with many remote employees feeling disconnected due to distance and absence during fun office events.

 

A culture should be experienced, not just read about. At Tahche, our company culture thrives onsite, with multiple engagement and team building activities. Battle of the Bands, Trashion Extravaganza, and entrepreneurship expos are just a few. These activities encourage employees to bond beyond office tasks and look forward to shared experiences.

 

Security and confidentiality measures

 

In-office work minimizes security risks for sensitive information. Office settings allow control over computers and IP addresses. Access to questionable websites can easily be blocked. Moreover, there won’t be unauthorized persons walking behind employees’ backs, seeing sensitive information, as employees browse through work documents. 

 

WIO Offshore workers at Tahche

 

For those wondering whether work-in-office offshore employees are a viable option, the answer is a resounding “YES!” 

 

When you hire an offshore team with Tahche, you can avail of our offices located in Cebu City and Pasig City, Philippines. Not only that but within Tahche’s offices are support teams that will ensure your offshore team is working at their best at all times. HR personnel, accountants, a company nurse, and facility and maintenance workers are always available. 

 

Watch the full video to learn more personal experiences and applications of the points discussed in this article. 

 

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If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The Philippine Business Playbook podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. 

The relationship between employee and employer is a two-way street. Like partners, both parties should prioritize the happiness of the other to stay in a fruitful relationship.

 

This episode takes a closer look into why employee happiness is crucial in the smooth running of a business, and helps employers determine if they are doing enough for their employees’ well-being.

 

Quiet quitting: Product of dissatisfaction

 

Let’s start with quiet quitting. Quiet quitting is a modern trend where employees do the bare minimum due to dissatisfaction. This phenomenon often occurs when employees are unhappy but unwilling or unable to resign. 

 

But even if an employer identifies this problem, there is the challenge of firing quiet quitters, especially in countries like the Philippines with strong employee protections. It could take weeks or months just to fire an employee with proper documentation and within the law. Even in the U.S., it’s hard to make a case when employees are technically still doing their jobs. 

 

And once they’re fired, hiring replacements just takes more time and money. 

 

This underscores the need to keep employees happy and the importance of maintaining employee satisfaction.

 

Happy Employees are Productive and Effective

 

Happy employees tend to be more productive and effective. 

 

Why?

 

Happy employees have a strong desire to keep their jobs, leading to greater effort and quality output. A positive and inclusive workspace also fosters excitement and motivation to come to work. Additionally, happy employees are more willing to interact, mentor, and learn from colleagues, enhancing teamwork and collaboration. As an added bonus, gratitude from happy employees make them more likely to go the extra mile for their organization

 

This positive ripple effect from happy employees contributes to overall workplace happiness, productivity, and efficiency.

 

Quick List on How to Keep Employees Happy

 

Practical tips for keeping employees happy include:

 

1. Competitive salary and benefits
2. Flexible work arrangements and understanding management
3. Inclusive and welcoming workplace, especially for LGBTQ and differently-abled individuals, with appropriate amenities and tools
4. Good and open communication with peers and higher-ups
5. Fun employee engagement activities to avoid monotony and encourage creativity, interaction, and teamwork
6. Training and development opportunities to prevent stagnation
7. Career development opportunities, such as promotions

How Tahche Does It

 

Ensuring employee happiness when they’re based offshore can be a little more complicated. But one thing that’s sure to help is having a local support team, where the employees are based, dedicated to employee management and happiness. 

 

For Tahche’s clients, local and dedicated support teams in the Philippines are always available to ensure that offshore employees are happy and well taken care of. 

 

A Chief of Happiness officer is a key figure, who, with the help of the other support teams, organizes regular employee engagement activities from small gatherings like pizza parties to large-scale events like the summer outing wherein employees from all over the Philippines are flown to Cebu for a big get-together.

 

Tahche also has a full HR team for quick issue resolutions and who are knowledgeable about salary requirements and benefits mandated by the government to ensure quality of life in the Philippines for employees.

 

So if you’re looking to hire and keep happy, productive, and efficient employees in the Philippines, consider hiring with Tahche!

 

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If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The Philippine Business Playbook podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.