Expats’ Guide: How Not to Offend a Local Workmate

Working in a foreign country like the Philippines means that there is a chance you will also be working with a local colleague. There are times that you will have to converse with them and talk about things outside work. Just like any other countries, there are things that can offend people, so you really need to be careful if you don’t want to leave a bad impression in your workplace. To help you out, here are some of the things you should know so as not to offend a local colleague:

1. Do not ask about Gender, Race, or Insecurity

If you really don’t need to ask about these things, don’t do it. Sometimes, locals are sensitive with talks that can become too personal in nature. Especially if you’re not too close with that colleague, better just ask interesting questions that can help build a great working relationship which can eventually lead to friendship in the long run.

2. Never point fingers

Even outside the Philippines, you should be very careful when using non-verbal gestures. Here in this country, pointing fingers is usually offensive. It is somehow a rude and impolite manner of emphasizing things. The best way to do that is to use the palm of your hand when explaining things.

3. Do not make general derogatory comments

Oh no, you didn’t just insult Pia Wurtzbach and Manny Pacquiao, or basically just any personality with Filipino blood! If you really want to build a rapport with your colleague, don’t mess with Filipino pride. If you have unnecessary comments, keep it to yourself. Filipinos are generally sensitive so one big mistake; you might just get bashed by the whole workforce.

4. Do not compare cultures

“In [insert name of country here], we don’t do it like that!” But the thing is, you’re not in your country and it’s done here this way. Do not expect people to conform to your rules just because you do it that way in another place. That’s rude, and also annoying if you mention it all the time.

5. Do not reject straightaway anything that your workmate gives you for free

If Workmate A gives you free cookies and you don’t like cookies, refuse politely. If you reject it right away, your workmate might think you strongly don’t want anything from him/her. Appreciate the thought and who doesn’t love free, anyway?

6. When in a conversation, speak a language understood by everybody

When in a conversation, be polite to use a language understood by many. For example, if you’re working with a Filipino even if majority of you are Korean, you should speak English so as not to let the other person feel left out. Especially in meetings, wherein everybody is involved, it can also be a form of respect.

Have you thought of other things than can help not to offend colleagues? Share it with us!

Comics from Dilbert.com