The primary language that business is conducted in the Philippines is English. This is a result of the American influenced era which began in 1898. One should not assume that just because English is the most commonly used language that both verbal and nonverbal forms of communication are conducted the same way that they are in America. The Philippines business environment is known to be highly personalized. The communication style of the Philippines has also been perceived as difficult to comprehend due to its diplomatic and complex language which is derived from its Asian roots. (http://www.worldbusinessculture.com/Filipino-Business-Communication-Style.html)
It is common in the Philippines, as well as most Asian countries, for people to have an extremely difficult time saying ‘no’ because they tend to try to avoid hurting others feelings. Saying ‘no’ to someone can also be viewed by others as confrontational and unfriendly. Because of this Filipino 's would rather say 'yes ' even if they mean 'no. ' (http://www.worldbusinessculture.com/Filipino-Business-Communication-Style.html)
Filipinos’ dialogue-oriented, rather emotional communication somewhat resembles Spanish, but is less forceful and exuberant. As a show of respect, Filipinos usually address people by their titles (e.g., Architect Cruz, Attorney Jose, Dr. Romero). Over time, and after a relationship is established, they may address business associate by their informal title or nickname. (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/4205562/National-Cultural-Profiles-Philippines.html)
In the Filipino culture a pervasive smile can easily be interpreted as agreement or affirmation in what has just been discussed. That same smile can easily be used to hide embarrassment, aggravation on disagreement. Nonverbal signs of affirmation include the raising of an eyebrow and the jerking of the head upward. A common sign for “no” include the jerk of the head down. For example, if an
References: http://www.intercultures.ca/cil-cai/ci-ic-eng.asp?iso=ph#cn-2 Joy Heinrich (April 2008) Gender Roles Within the Philippines http://voicelab9.wordpress.com/non-western-cultural-norms/gender-roles-within-the-philippines/ Kitano (2007) Community Health Needs and Resource Assessment http://www.kalusugancoalition.org/pdf/fil_chna.pdf GOIliolo (September 2011) Healthcare in the Philippines