Cultural Differences and Their Impact in International Business

Cultural Differences and Their Impact on International Business

As the world of business becomes more and more connected than ever before, people from across the world over are becoming more consolidated in the same working space. However, while diversity in the workplace is as colorful as the flag which each represents, cultural differences among people of various civilizations remain an issue even in a supposedly more open-minded world, that is the present.

Sure, there may be a good reason why multinational and cross-cultural teams exist in the workplace—that is, because people of diverse cultural orientations provide unique views and approach to different problems and, thereby, an eclectic of solutions. However, even this perceived benefit may not always outweigh the weight of the issues which could arise from it.

After all, when you speak of “culture,” you talk about what the dictionary describes as “a set of common and accepted norms that are shared by the society.” Put in the world context, it means that culture is merely an umbrella term for each civilization’s unique way of living that, more often than not, has friction with another.

To put together people from the assortment of cultures is to inevitably create misunderstandings which often underly cultural differences and subsequently affect international business. What better way to resolve issues coming from cultural differences and its affectation to international business than to see the point in its three major facets: organizational hierarchy, etiquette, and communication.

1.Communication

Many companies which exercise power to employ people from different parts of the world frequently have one common denominator to them all—they speak a common, unified language.

However, communication is not only always conducted with speech. With the English language being the world’s de facto language, people are not only differentiated by their unique accent and diction about the word, they are also separated from their different way of expressing it.

One significant challenge therefore in keeping solidarity between people of a different culture but speak a similar language is in finding common ground among them which might entail knowingness in each culture’s differences. However, when the body language is ambiguous, the best logical step is to ask.

2.Etiquette

Workplace ethics is another major issue in the corporate world which highlights diversity in its constitution which, more or less, affect someone’s view of what makes right or wrong in the work setting.

Two of the most common differences between work ethics from the Tiger Economy countries and those from Canada and the US are the formality of address to someone and the idea of what is being “on-time.”

For instance, employees from Singapore, South Korea, and China refer to other people with either the honorific “Mr.” or “Ms.” Plus the Surname whereas their Canadian and US counterparts prefer the first name. Another noteworthy example is the US worker’s notion of being “on-time” by arriving at the workplace a few minutes early vis-à-vis his Italian and Mexican counterpart which sees arriving 7 minutes after the scheduled time is “on-time.”

3.Organizational Hierarchy

Some companies pay little regard to organizational hierarchy in that every member of the workplace is equal to another which creates a flat organizational hierarchy, such as in the Scandinavian country of Norway.

However, for Asian countries like South Korea or Japan which pay strict adherence to organizational hierarchy, junior members are typically placed in a lower position than their senior counterparts. Often, the divergence of the stature is ostensive in how junior members pay regards to those who are in the higher ranks.

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83 Comments

  1. Arjay Solitario

    There are different cultural differences a business manager needs to understand when opening a business in an international market.

    For example, in Russia, shaking hands with everyone when meeting with a business associate is standard. One should maintain eye contact, though, to show confidence. As part of showing respect and appreciation for the Russian culture, it is recommended that business cards include a Russian translation. Doing so increases the chances of having positive business discussions and negotiations.

    While for Spain, the atmosphere and etiquette of business engagements in this country is less formal. To begin building a relationship, it is recommended to have face-to-face communication.
    Other examples include, in France a handshake may be necessary. You must also call someone by their title (Monsieur or Madam) until such time that they invited you to call them by their first name. And in Germany, they are blunt and on point and that must not be perceived as rude.

    To put it another way, successful and profitable business transactions can only be achieved with contact contacts from around the world.

  2. Iche Calates

    As the world is now evolving and getting all things in the digital world. International businesses are getting bigger and wider also. That is why businessmen and businesswomen should also study the different cultures of each country. Putting a business worldwide is not easy. There are things that need to be considered and one of those is the culture. It is good to know that this blog mentioned how to resolve cultural differences somehow in the world of business.

    Truly, communication is the best solution to all differences or misunderstandings. Even in one small business, using the same language and gesture is a strength. But, take note, communication without respect is a waste. This is why we still need to study the culture or attitude of each country or person.

    This blog also mentioned etiquette and the organizational hierarchy. Yes, in the business world knowing the etiquette and the organizational chart is very important. This helps us to know what gesture or movement we should portray inside the company. Also, this helps in decision making.

  3. Bea Berio

    International business transactions not only cross nations, but also cultures. Culture has a significant impact on how consumers think, interact, and behave. Using these three major facets mentioned above, in international business transactions will help you better understand your counterpart and anticipate any misunderstandings.

    In addition, these are 2 factors that we can also consider:

    Values determine what is accepted and unaccepted in society. It is not only shaped by culture but also influenced by family, education, moral, and religious views. In the United States, they highly value individualism and personal responsibility. They value self-sufficiency and the promotion of their capabilities. While in other countries, such as Japan, demonstrates many of the traits of a collective society, like prioritizing group harmony above the expression of individual views.
    Understanding different business norms can help you in understanding their customs and behaviors, allowing you to avoid ignorance and stereotyping. For instance, Western and Eastern signals have quite distinct meanings in business meetings. During discussion with an Eastern business partner, a duration of quietness may indicate dissatisfaction with your proposal. While direct transparency is valued in Western cultures, protecting face and avoiding disrespectful reactions are typically more important in Eastern cultures.

  4. Apollo Jose Ocillada

    To summarize this article, this will help to recognize and comprehend how culture affects international business in three key areas: communication, etiquette, and organizational hierarchy can assist you in avoiding misunderstandings with colleagues and clients from other countries and excel in a globalized business environment.

    Communication: Effective communication is critical in any business venture, but it is especially vital when your message may be “lost in translation.” In many multinational corporations, English is the world language, regardless of the language you use. Furthermore, while fluency in English can help you in international business, understanding subtle non-verbal communication between cultures is equally important.

    Etiquette: In many cultures, punctuality can be different. For example, people from Italy or Mexico arrive several minutes or more late for a meeting, but they will still be considered “on time.”

    Organizational hierarchy: Culture can influence whether junior and middle managers feel comfortable speaking up in meetings, questioning senior decisions, or expressing dissent. Culture also influences organizational hierarchy and management attitudes. In Japan, for example, social order, relative status, and seniority are valued in the workplace.

  5. Engage in International business must be knowledgeable enough, in their different cultures and norms with respective countries. Remember you are dealing business with them avoid error, communication most essential in the closing business deal. Differences in work etiquette or attitude must be learned. Some races honored punctuality in a business meeting especially Americans it’s a big deal for them an on-time policy or punctuality attitude. Another is the organizational hierarchy. We need to know and emphasize this area. A lot of races are very particular with details because this is the structure and backbone of the businesses. Be keen on dealing in the International market.

  6. Engage in international business must be knowledgeable enough, in their different cultures and norms with respective countries. Remember you are dealing business with them avoid error, communication most essential in the closing business deal. Differences in work etiquette or attitude must be learned. Some races honored punctuality in a business meeting especially Americans it’s a big deal for them an on-time policy or punctuality attitude. Another is the organizational hierarchy. We need to know and emphasize this area. A lot of races in particular, because this is the structure and backbone of the businesses. Be keen on dealing in the International market.

  7. Apollo Jose Ocillada

    The Importance of Cultural Diversity in Business

    Understanding cultures is an act of respect. Effective communication fosters business success. It is never difficult to appreciate another culture. Consider the following:

    Every culture’s hidden ideas have been discovered. Many countries may view frugality, trust, and endurance in a different light. Expectations vary in business partnerships and negotiations due to underlying themes.

    In many cultures, nonverbal communication is indirect and subtle. Observing the way people in your new market express themselves will help you better understand their meanings. Forewarn a new business partner about acceptable nonverbal gestures in the US. Other communication strategies can be used, such as using visual references as much as possible and allowing for silence or pauses during presentations.

    Who decides? Or in groups? In some countries, group decisions can take a long time. Other times, unilateral decision-making is acceptable.

    How do your potential overseas partners view time and deadlines? While punctuality is expected in some countries, it is not in others. Some cultures prioritize long-term strategic planning and company health over quarterly financial reports.

  8. The best qualities of our culture that we can employ to do business worldwide as Filipinos are our adaptability and resiliency. We Filipinos may be found doing almost any job, almost everywhere in the world. I’d even go so far as to say that Filipinos can be found anywhere there are possible revenue streams. Some people work in jobs that have nothing to do with what they have learned. We might work our major occupations in another country while also working on a variety of side projects. We Filipinos don’t have superpowers, but we do have a sense of resolve to see that our families, who are completely reliant on us and remain in our country, survive poverty through our good fortune.

  9. Gracelyn Mae G. Nico

    Our world today is constituted with a wide-range of interaction between companies, localized or international, in every part of the world and by enormous movement of merchandise, services and as well as manpower.
    In these circumstances, the cultural dimension is represented in the international businesses. Culture is, something invisible abroad, being spread in individual and group behavior. It is not sufficient for the businessman to be aware of the cultural differences. They must understand the cultural differences and adjust to them. It is a requirement for the success of any business who acts in a globalized economy.
    Deeper understanding of the Philippines’ history will help us relate with filipino culture and how it greatly help in Filipinos when doing business. Some of these values are putting your family first, showing respect to people with authority as well as elders, and prioritizing group harmony are some of the FIlipino traits we showcase in every business. Through these values, we are able to attract prospect partners and investors to our business. We build rapport with them which I believe strengthens our bond with other people even if they are of different race or environment. These cultural values influence the Filipino culture and moreover, our business practices.

  10. Jen Benoman

    Understanding our culture differences plays an important role in conducting business internationally. Being able to adapt to different cultures makes it easier for us to cope with and deal with every situation. There has to be underlying reasons why such a person behaves and even reacts that way. Respect for one’s unique culture is all we need to understand each other and to maintain a good relationship in doing business internationally.

  11. Kevene Anthony M. Ting

    The Philippines is a country of diverse cultures. This is what makes us Filipinos more flexible compared to other nationalities. Being able to speak English is such an advantage to us Filipinos since the majority of the people around the world can speak the said language. Because we are a hospitable nation, we always get familiar with the cultures of other countries and can easily adjust when dealing with them. To be honest, some of us already adapted to foreign cultures on how they do business and even follow their lifestyles. The good thing about is that we get to listen and learn from them and we do not limit ourselves inside the box. We, Filipinos may not be classy, but we continue to explore new things that may be helpful to us and have a passion for discoveries.
    Because of inter-connectedness, different people around the world are also mixed up in the same workplace. We cannot deny the fact the differences among these people can lead to some issues. The good thing about this is that the workplace becomes more open to new learnings and different points of view. In order not to worsen issues, we have to see the differences in their points of view on different sides and these are the communication, etiquette and organizational hierarchy according to the blog.
    In terms of communication, having a common language is good, but it can also cause miscommunication. There are times that the accent and diction of the word are expressed differently. One way to solve this problem is to find a common ground among them which might lead to something or a topic that everybody can relate to. For example, if all employees in a company have different nationalities and it so happened that all of them love basketball and by talking about the said sport or any topic that interests them can help them to be more unified in a single goal, because they are familiar with the mechanics of the game. In this way, these cultural differences will not be much of a factor and open-mindedness would then take place because they understand one another due to their similarities. However, in cases that there is still confusion or something is not clear from one employee to another, the best thing the management should do is to re-orient all employees and make sure that every single rule is clear to all.
    In terms of etiquette, the people in the workplace are also in confusion as to what is right and wrong. Just like in the case of Asian countries where use “Mr.” and “Ms.” in calling their fellow employees. However, in the western side of the world, they use a first-name basis. If the employees are not knowledgeable about this, the Asians in that office may feel that they are being disrespected by those who came from the western side of the world. Another example of this is the meaning of the word “on-time”. In the US, it means arriving before the said time, while in countries like Mexico and Italy, it means arriving a few minutes after the said time. The best way to deal with a group of diverse employees is to make things clear and make them understand the company policies to limit this issue to a negative factor.
    In terms of organizational hierarchy, there are countries that their citizens believe that all employees are of equal rank and title and there are countries that believe that organizational hierarchy is a very big thing for them. As I mentioned in the earlier paragraphs, let us be clear enough with the rules inside the workplace to avoid anyone from getting offended by anybody.
    The blog focuses on the cultural differences in the global business. Due to differences in culture, the most important thing to do is to respect and learn from each other. There should be a common denominator in the office and the management should see to it that the rules and regulations of the company are specific and clear to every member of the team to avoid confusion. In global business, listening is as important as speaking. That is why we must learn to listen to every point of view and learn from the experiences of others for us to succeed in the global business environment.

  12. Izza Nicole Arcenas

    Understanding cultural differences is really important in working in an industry the good thing about our culture is we accept negative criticism and take it to the positive side. Also, the culture of filipinos unlike americans are some of us are never on time, for example there is a meeting at 12noon most often the person will arrive at 1215 or 1230 max. Understanding cultural differences of different countries is a must because we should learn and adapt to their norms. Because for me, the key to success is being able to adapt to change.

  13. Rachelle Beth M. Balansag

    Different places and countries have different cultures and norms. As an avid fan of a US youtuber, who worked in the Philippines for quiet some time as celebrity, he was shocked that class A artists belong to one group only while others have different group. He said that in the US no matter what or where you are, everyone is the same and you could talk to anyone casually, which is slightly different here in the Philippines where seniority and class matters. Nevertheless, no culture is better than the other. Everyone has a different way of doing things. Respect for the culture should be highly observed all the time whether it is calling the person in his or her first name if he or she should prefer no matter how awkward or uncomfortable it might be.

  14. Leddielyn C. Tomayao

    In today’s modern world, diversity is a common word. It is by diversifying that we find solutions to some problems. Where we equate one’s shortcomings to one’s strength because the uniqueness of each individual contributes to the success of an organization. The company has a lot to gain from this diverse workforce. The company got to have different views and opinions about everything, which means wider resources for decision making. Yes, cultural differences are an issue, but a company with a strong set of rules, policies, and principles can mitigate the impact of these differences. A company with a firm vision can mold workers to be diversifiable themselves. To be flexible or adapt to every environment they are put in. Most Filipinos are resilient, especially if they need to be. It is a trait that gave us a name in many diverse organizations. Filipinos are flexible, they adapt to every environment they are put in, and we must be proud of it.

  15. Ene Bauden

    The best part of our culture that we can capitalize in doing
    business globally would be, being a hardworking and
    being competitive. Filipino known to be hard working as influence
    during the Japanese colonization for a long decade. We’re
    known to do multitasking, without compromising the quality
    of work. Also competitive in the sense, in the field of
    communication Filipino can competitively communicate
    particularly in English and in some other language which is
    the standard of communication in business. Filipino also, has
    its culture that even how hard life struck, still can manage to
    smile and said “ I can do it no matter what”.

  16. Zandra I. Garagara

    Hardworking, resilient and hospitable are the traits Filipinos. In times of calamities and catastrophes, Filipinos manage to stand up and accept positively with a smile as is challenges nothing happen. Instead of wallowing, they manage to pick themselves up , rise and smile for new beginning and challenges.Some Filipinos is not that well educated or a degree holder but with their hard works and resiliency, they manage to succeed in their business, if not, they get up again and look for another one.

  17. Shernie Gelera

    What is the best part of our culture that we can capitalize on doing business globally? Explain.

    I think the best part of our culture that we could capitalize in doing business globally is being competitive with a heart. We Filipinos a really admired by our personalities that even in our hardest time we still manage to smile as wide as we can. In business, we can relate it to our personality that making money is worthless if you are not happy with what you’re doing. For our products to be well-known globally, what’s within us is what are consumer’s guide to prefer their choice. Our competitiveness with a heart will bring our country, Philippines, to the top of choice because we are not only competing for own growth but also we are thinking about the satisfaction and curiosity of all nations. The Filipinos are wide thinkers, loves to please everyone, educated enough to deal with people, loves introducing themselves as well as having the strategy to market what they have.
    I believe that our personality will bring our culture to be known, our good people will bring our names to other countries and our competitiveness will endure risks and hindrances that are ahead of us.

  18. Jerald Maglantay

    Filipinos have a rich and diverse set of cultures that can enable us to propel our companies to the international stage. One of these is our culture which is widely known as we are one of the most hospitable races in the world. Being hospitable is an important trait in the business industry because it builds trust with your clients, and that enables the customers to patronize your business.

  19. Vanessa Joy Arcenas

    Owning a culture rich in diversity makes it easier for us to adjust to others. Being able to speak and understand English is already an advantage if we were to conduct business in English speaking countries. More than that, the skill of being able to adjust communication style between high and low context because of Spanish (high context) and American (low context) influences, can be considered a trick up our sleeve. We can be straightforward or sophisticated when communicating – whichever the situation warrants. Being a mix of different cultures has given us the edge understanding others.

    • Kris Laica M. Artos

      As a Filipino we are naturally born with strong personality and beliefs that help us to look for the brighter side on any situation. Filipino’s are also well-oriented when it comes to family. We have also traits that are industrious, hospitable and friendly. These characteristics and traits can build trust from investors and can also can attract customers and they will patronize the business.

  20. Mark Jayson Torres

    Filipino cultures are influenced by different races. Aside from being known as hospitable people, family oriented and often religious with an appreciation for art, fashion, food and music. The best part of our rich culture is that we are recognized for being innovative which can be used as our asset to do in making business globally. Innovative in a way that we do not only settle for less, but instead we love to create and formulate more effective and improved dynamic output for better product and services. Innovation plays a vital role in business for the reason that it brings something new for the product and this will leads to increase its efficiency and most importantly, improve its profitability.

  21. Louie Canlas

    The best part of our culture is our smile or optimism, that regardless of the challenges and calamities we always rise and remain happy and we always look at things on the brighter side. In this world full of negativities we can be a beacon of hope that can influence others to become positive despite of the difficulties. We can use it in doing business globally because for someone to be successful in the business world, they need to be optimistic and determined even if things don’t go their way. If people see a smile it can actually capture attention and you can use that to have a good public relation.

  22. Rebecca Sales-Cabigo

    The culture of the Philippines comprises blend of traditional Filipino and Spanish Catholic traditions because of the colonization of the Spaniards for a very long time and it was influences from America and other parts of Asia. The best part of our culture that we can capitalize on doing business globally is being hospitable. From Merriam Webster, Hospitable is “generous and friendly to guests or visitors,” “ready or willing to accept or consider something.”
    Filipinos are very hospitable whom others really appreciate them. In any working area around the world, Filipinos can easily adjust themselves with the other people, they can adapt the system easily and work harmoniously with other people even with different races. Seldom, they find difficulty but almost they can work well with their bosses.
    In doing business and bringing business globally, surely Filipinos can do it better because that is the most important in dealing business to other people in other countries. Being friendly to others can ease the feeling of the other business partners and being considerate can give equal chances to everyone.

  23. Shanelle Anne Machan

    one of the best culture is the belief in ‘Pakikisama’ which is a concept of a smooth relationship or commonly defined as getting along well with each other or being united in a group. The road to success is being ‘pagpapakumbaba’ or humility it is a journey that requires you to look back and learn from your past. Lastly is ‘pagkamausisa’ or curiosity filipinos are eager to learn more especially in solving problems and decision making by that curiosity this will lead to their creative thing to innovate products and services to offer the market.

  24. Roland Feb Penas

    Filipinos are known to be fun, passionate and hospitable people. Most businesses in the Philippines is built on personal relationship. It is common as well to do business in a warm and pleasant environment. By having these, we can easily establish good relationship with our target market. It is said that, in order to be successful capitalize in building good relationship with the people we are working with.

  25. Dhevie Salazar

    Filipinos are well-known for our hospitable traits. Hospitality is a long part of our culture. Providing our customers a pleasant experience with our products and services increases customer retention rate. It also encourages higher positive reviews that could attract future customers.

  26. Ryeo Venn Abellanida

    What is the best part of our culture that we can capitalize on doing business globally? It’s the positive ones!

    We Filipinos are multi-cultured based on our history. This makes us very hospitable. Being hospital to business partners/clients makes them comfortable but too much of this eats up our income and makes it difficult for the Filipino to separate business with pleasure.

    The worst negative one I want to share is the “Crab-mentality”. I would consider it the worst because it destroys the business of one doing good by a person close to him or from another Filipino. This is one of the reason why we Filipinos cannot improve, be better or move-on from the past.

    On a positive note, we Filipinos are very resilient, can adapt in any situation, and are very proud of our heritage. We are a survivor. Anywhere you go around the world, you see a Filipino working hard for others or has a business of his own. We can operate in tough times and in different places. Being proud of our heritage are now seen abroad especially in the Filipino cuisine. Filipino food restaurants are starting to make its mark abroad though its taste is mostly misunderstood.

  27. April Rose J. Balongo

    We Filipinos value our family like no other. Everything we do, we do it for the love of our family. We even consider our friends as our extended family. Just like in a business, Filipinos takes pride of their employees and consider them as a family. I believe that every Filipino possess this kind of value whenever they go. It is one of the values that differs us from other nationalities. The feeling of belonging that we radiate even in a diverse workplace. Another one is resiliency. Filipinos are famous for being resilient. We are able to put a smile on our face even though we are experiencing a difficult time. We have the power to raise up every time we fall and continue with our daily lives. We sees light even in the darkest time of our lives. And I believe that being resilient and the love for our family are the best part of our culture that can contribute in capitalizing the Filipino business globally.

  28. Angel Mae Carlson

    Filipino’s are known globally for being resilient and hard working. At the same time, our educational structure has prepared us to understand and communicate in English. This is one of the reasons why other countries prefer hiring people from the Philippines. Since we can communicate the universal language which is English, it makes it easier for us to engage and communicate with other nationalities. An example of this is the growing Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Industry here in the Philippines. BPO companies prefer branching out in the Philippines because we have an available pool of talents who can speak and converse in English. Another common example would be our OFW’s that re hired to be caregivers. Many foreign nationalities entrust their family and household needs to us because of our culture wherein we are very caring to our family and hard working as well. This type of culture has enabled our manpower to be able to compete almost anywhere around the globe.

  29. Rennie T. Craus

    Having been influenced over centuries by diverse cultures in the past, one thing has remained that is being hospitable.
    This trait is useful for us as we venture out for business globally. It teaches as to make our customers be delighted in terms on how we deal with them and also our business partners. It enables us to make them feel valued as we transact to them thus, they will keep on engaging with us and our business will be patronized. We are also undeniably hardworking that may help us sustain in business, that no matter how many times we fall still our perseverance to succeed will not wither. These mentioned part of our culture can be utilized and capitalized on our future business endeavors.

  30. Vem Lorraine Fernandez

    As a Filipino, the best part of our culture that we can capitalize in doing business globally is our flexibility and resiliency. We Filipinos could be found almost in every part of the world and in no specific jobs. I could even say that where there could be sources of income, there are Filipinos. There are those working on jobs even it is not what they had studied or practiced. We could have our primary jobs abroad with a lot of sidelines. It is not super powers that we Filipinos could be placed anywhere but the spirit of determination to let our family, who is fully dependent to us that are in left in our country, survive poverty through our providence. No hardship could break our relationship (another strong culture we have-strong family ties).
    When we hear talks about our country, the Philippines, the world is more likely reminded of the people than the land. We, ourselves are the best capital our country must be proud of. From international celebrities to talents, to service workers, we could be heard and seen anywhere in the world.
    Today, we could see significant growth of BPO companies in our country and even here in Negros province. This shows that our service talents even with international customers is recognized globally.

  31. Alvin Ivar Bandiola

    Filipinos are known to be family oriented and because of that we are also known to be hard-working. we tend to do anything just to provide everything for our families. Manpower, our expertise, these is one thing that we can compete with globally. We can excel in whatever task given to us. We do our best in our work and adopt easily in any situation or changes in the work place. Having these in our culture, i believe we can present ourselves and compete globally.

  32. Genie Mae D. Panzo

    Filipino culture is made up or history and the unforgettable experience it has brought and combined challenges of current realities. The Best part of Filipino Culture is being resilient despite all the problems life throws at us, we never fail to look on the brighter side of everything and staying positive, currently we are having problems like natural calamities that challenge especially in Western Visayas and as a nation. Indeed the culture of being a resilient filipino is that we can easily adjust to challenges on whatever problem in the business could throw us moreover the creativity that we put in out work that other culture would be very proud of. Competing Business globally is very demanding and could be stressful because you need to compete with new arising business but with the Filipino Character Resilience and Creativity we can easily adopt to changes in the foreign market with creativity we can produce what suits and right in the market despite challenges like language barrier, etiquette and organizational hierarchy.

  33. Renato T. Vingno

    The Filipino Culture were melted with western and Eastern Culture. We influence by Spanish, American, Japanese, Indonesian and Indian and other cultures. Part of the Filipino Culture that i consider the best to support and maintain to compete in business globally is artistic and creative. We Filipinos were very proud for being creative people. The unique design and artwork we have are known internationally. By maintaining this culture in producing quality and artistic products will be more globally competitive.

  34. Nineth D. Cuadernal

    Filipinos are known to be one of the sought-after workers all over the world. We have a lot to showcase especially in the global perspective. Culture often comes with attitude/trait and for me one of the best culture we have is being innovative. I believe in this fast and competing era, innovation is the key to succeed. Innovation is associated with being skillful. Filipinos never runs-out of new and brilliant ideas that is useful in making the business prosper. Infact, in the fasion industry Filipinos are making names just like Michael Cinco who has taken the middle east and was named as of the best designers. And in many forms, Filipinos are innovative. We need not to be told to make something better as we would always strive for excellence. In the business sense if you are innovative you can always think of new strategies in expanding and making your market grow. With the aid of advance technology plus the innovative sense of Filipinos we can always compete in the global economy.

  35. ASHER G. CRISTALES

    I am proud to be a Filipino, there’s a lot of countries around the world believes that Filipino is talented, skilled, intelligent, courageous, risk-takers, brave, hospitable, and can easily get along with other people either domestic or foreigners. Other country high regarded Filipino workers because of values oriented and hard working individuals. When you say values-oriented individual it means attitude toward their job and toward co-workers. The presence of element of respect understanding and patience which is necessary in the global business especially dealing with diverse personalities. Hard working individual is something that possess stamina in working that cannot easily gives up, focused on the target, commitment. Filipino is very strong, yes even the strongest typhoon in the history can stop Filipino to smile and laugh, that’s one attribute other countries admires us. We have an edge to compete other nationalities because of our character that is very well-known in the whole wide world. I think there’s a lot more to talk about Filipino culture if you want. All we need is to push further in order to achieve what we want to achieve. To do extra effort to reach our dreams. The material is already there, the challenge is on how to make it to the course that directs to success. There’s no doubt that Filipino is always an asset in every company in the global business, the world needs us, let us give them our best shot.

  36. Hazel Love Y. Baya

    Filipinos possess a lot of good traits and one of them is being hardworking. Our nurses are in demand abroad because of their skills and hardworking attitude. This attitude is a must in any business both local and international. Hardworking means you are doing your work with energy and commitment. Displaying this trait can attract customers and business partners because they know they’re doing business with a person whom they can trust that is doing the job right.

  37. Marie Bernadette F. Maquiling

    For me, it would be flexibility and creativity in our products. I found this prevailing in the culture of our food. I had the privilege of visiting South Africa and we are very fortunate to be hosted by a Filipino family for a dinner. I was much delighted to see salmon sinigang on the table that evening. They hosted for a mixed-culture group. We had South-Africans, Venezuelans, Korean and Americans with us and they tried out the sinigang and they liked it. Our menu is flexible to adapt to the available ingredients in different countries while retaining the Filipino taste we know. Another prevailing mark of success in our food taste is Jollibee food chain which established 80 stores outside Philippines with ongoing plans of expansion in the global market. It has proven the capability of Filipino innovation to stand side by side the Western fast food chains and in the worldwide stage.

  38. Rowena Saylon

    The Philippines is known as the melting pot of eastern and western cultures due to their influences. We have different cultures that we can capitalize on doing business globally. It just depends on how creative and adventurous we are to develop our marketing strategy that would captivate the interest of our target market. One example is our cuisine. It is mixed of different cultures, so it is unique. The advantage of Filipinos is the abundance of different variety of crops and sea foods. With the influence of other cultures, ability, creative skills, and resourcefulness using our own fresh ingredients, we can definitely make a name in the global market.

  39. Ricky Jocson

    What’s best in us Filipino is, we are blended of unique culture, influnced by Americans, some parts of Asia and even Europians. Our mixed traditions with good habits makes us great Filipinos. Great! Excellently competitive in different pillars of Business, Sports and even music.

  40. Henry L. Umadhay

    What is the best part of our culture that we can capitalize on doing business globally? Explain
    Negrenses or Filipinos generally are casual,fun loving,sensitive and most of all hospitable .
    Moving business along we need to capitalize our strength as a people in doing business globally. As Filipino we value friendship not only in the personal note but also in business. We can expand business through the following cultural traits:
    1. Cultivating friendship- In any business or partnership a healthy relationship always contributed success in any endeavor. If respect,trust ,honesty and mutual understanding is present , we can guarantee attainment or profit.
    2. Establishing a valuable contact- This Filipino culture can address a very vital factors before establishing business globally. Through your contacts you can
    a.) Develop a game plan
    b.) Identify the product to export
    c. Develop an export plan
    d.)Conduct market analysis
    e.) Segment potential expand markets
    f.) Assess competition
    g.) Packaging ,labeling and requirements
    h.)Trade shows
    So, it is necessary to established contacts to have a fruitful business transaction.
    3. Developing personal rapport- This is through paying attention to your business partners way of communicating.Keeping your commitments,you do what you say. And the last one practice reciprocity,treating other people the way you want to be treated.
    Keeping the best of Filipino culture will brings us successful globally.

  41. Joey L. Yane

    Q: What is the best part of our culture that we can capitalize on doing business globally? Explain.

    A: Filipinos can be seen in the different part of the world, why is that so? Because we are flexible businessman, we have diverse personality willing to take risk, accept challenges and offers success to our business partners. Filipinos are hard working people and we value business partners as well as people around us. No wonder why Filipinos can be in a global market.

  42. Jijie B. Torrion

    Sports in the Philippines are a valuable part of the country’s culture. We Filipinos recognize as competitive and excelled in regards to sports. Furthermore, we are known to be lovers of sports local and international. Example, Manny Pacquiao renowned world’s greatest boxer, Chess Grandmaster Wesley So, and the Magician, Efren Bata Reyes, famous worldwide for his ungodly skills in pool. Being competitive, we’re noted as well as perseverance and hardworking persons. Thus, with this character and inspiring culture in sports, we can compete globally.

    • Nice comment, but can you relate boxing to business please?

      • Jijie B. Torrion

        Strong athletes and successful entrepreneurs have a lot something in common. When great boxers’ step into the ring and excellent entrepreneurs start a new venture, they’re continually determined, focused and most of all fearless.
        Business owners have to boost their strategic plan and stick to it. They must ought to have the self-discipline to stay true to their strategic plan and not deviate. People abandon strategic plans and lose faith in skills too quickly. That’s why they fail.
        Just like other sports, boxing is one of the entertainments of most of all people. Since, Philippines is known as one of the largest boxing hubs in the world, and it houses many talented fighters. With this, our name as Filipino is already been known by other country and it is not hard for us to introduce our business globally. Furthermore, we can use this as our advantage to promote our culture, products and etc.
        In the business world it is a battle just like boxing. It’s a marathon. The entrepreneurs who can stand up to competition like boxers who can remain standing thru 12 rounds are the ones who are left standing.

      • Joseph C. Gubat

        Filipinos are known to be family oriented and religious. These traits speak of our relationship with family and God. In doing business globally, it is important to treat people around us as family – this will create an impression that we are not just doing business to address our need but also to address the need of others (customers, shareholders, employees etc.)
        Successful businesses value its people and put God on top of everything.

  43. Justin Myko G. Agpangan

    With regards to the Filipino culture, I think the part of our culture that could help us compete globally is our creativity. Filipinos are known to be creative workers and inventors. This creativity could be used to make products that are unique. Furthermore, I think the uniqueness of products in Negros Island in particular could bring an edge for business that have these products. As we all know, Philippines is an agricultural country and there are countries that don’t have the crops that we harvest. This kind of opportunity will make us products globally known and could create a permanent market for these products.

  44. Rhea T. Prado

    Question: What is the best part of our culture that can be capitalized on doing business globally? Explain

    Understanding own culture is the ability to know much of your identity so to mention your strengths and weaknesses. This is a great challenge for every business entering the international business. What could be the best to offer the market could it be products or services. This must be done in order to properly position the product in the market and able to compete in the immense players. As Filipinos, we are known for being versatile. For over a decade we Filipino is very well known as the great laborer compare to other nations in which we can easily adapt any kind of culture especially when it comes to language, etiquette and especially could do anything even in at the lower class of work. We as worker or laborers had the ability to maneuver any obstacle or task given by our superiors or any kind of business that we are dealing with, in this sense we Filipino are known to be competitive, as we all known that we had the ability to surpass everything given challenges at work. Given so much commendation by other countries with the kind of people we have, why hire talents from other countries? If only given the chance to showcase the talent of our local we could be at our best. Education, training and workshops if properly supported and funded by our government this may bring a very long way and may enhance more of our workforce. As of our culture is the tool and can be capitalized in every business and could compete anywhere globally.

  45. Geiczar Ross D. Real

    When it comes to culture, Filipino has been diverse due to the fact that we are colonized by different countries like America and Japan and also adding the influence of other Asian countries. When penetrating the global market, Filipino businessmen should consider cultural sensitivity to avoid conflicts and as a Filipino we should be careful on our attributes like:
    1. Too friendly – Some leaders are advantageous and might take those friendly attributes to dominate your share;
    2. Too hospitable – Some leaders might take the opportunity that you will tend to consider their feelings before your own and that might break your business;
    3. Being idealistic and creative – this can make or break your business due to the fact that if you don’t have the resources but you have the capacity, they will fund you and grab your credits;

  46. Florencia Sumcio

    4. What do you think are other factors (cultural) which we Filipino posses that can make or break the goal when penetrating the global market?
    -Globalization is the process of international integration through an exchange of goods and services.
    In cultural differences, communication is vital to the success of any business endeavor. Overcoming this cultural challenges is very important to embrace with the people who will become your customers, awareness and cultural values can bring success in a business. Effective communication is essential in global business and Filipino have great communication skills, that is why Filipino can explore can compete in the global market because of a customer service oriented and because of the cultural values that we are proud of.

    • The best part of our culture that can be used for doing business globally is our perseverance, why? Because us Filipinos are very keen into details because we want to deliver the best results we could offer to our consumers. We are very persevering in terms of workload we want to meet a certain deadline and we want to deliver the results more than what the clients expected us to do. For me, it is something we can use in having business globally because perseverance always results to big success to name some people with their perseverance to their own unique product such as the “BayongCiaga” by Sir Javi Villaruel who made these wonderful creations come globally and other countries patronize these bags as well.

  47. Mellany Ann F. de Asis

    The other factor which i believe would hinder Filipino to succeed in the arena of global trading is the culture of “incorrect” Authoritarianism or the seniority complex wherein the person who stays longer in the field of work has to be listened and followed by all means by everybody. This should change. It is just like telling the new ones or say people who are younger, that they are no good at all and this is disastrous to any businesses that needed teamwork and cooperation from everybody in order to succeed.

  48. Louie C. Pagdato

    4. We Filipinos are rich in cultures and traditions, a combination of eastern and western. Our attitude towards work and the nature of hard work is always present to us Filipinos. But why is it that we always have these challenges in surviving or competing globally?
    Our cultural difference is considered as hindrance in the global world of business. But I believe that we can do more than other countries. We should be more creative and always deliver a good attitude on what we are doing. Let us accept the fact that we Filipinos have also a the other side, the bad side, which, admit it or not, some of us possess and apply which can hinder us ineffectively competing globally. Crab mentality, where the main goal is stepping and pushing each other down for personal gain. Competition is good but we should always take in consideration our principles in life and that is to be fair and doing things in a right manner. . Doing everything to get even with others to get to the top, a true mark of a selfish individual. Procrastination or the Mañana habit. The endless belief that we always have tomorrow. What we can do now should be done today, we Filipinos have this traits which I think can affect in competing globally. Every day is a market day for business, so we don’t wait for tomorrow to come. Lastly, Fatalism. The belief in no-matter-what-happens, come what may. We should not wait for the results to come but we should always have a plan “B” in the event that plan “A” won’t work. By this, we are always prepared for whatever circumstances that may occur in our business.

  49. Riza Mae H. Villanueva

    There are some factors which Filipinos possess that can easily break the goal when penetrating the global market. These are: 1) Always late for an appointment. Usually, Filipinos are late for an appointment. We are known for that. Let say if the appointment is 9:00 am, we are there at 10:00 am. I guess it’s a culture–bad culture for the Filipinos. I hope it will diminished. We should be on time for the meeting! Always; 2) Husband is the one who usually work than a wife. There are more housewives in the Philippines nowadays. There shouldn’t be because they should help their husbands in generating income for the family. The fact of the matter is, it’s inflation in the Philippines. Everything is expensive! Therefore, husbands and wives should work together to provide foods at the table; 3) Wife usually handles the money in the household. It’s a norm that wives are the ones who handle the money in the family; 4) More companies prefer male over female in top management. I think it’s so unfair. It should be equal rights for both male and female. They must know the qualities of male and female first before hiring him/ her. It should be the qualities and not the gender advantage; 5) When the boss is not around, the mice are playing. They are not serious about their jobs. I think that’s why there is a high ratio of Filipinos being a frog at work (jumping from one job to another); and 6) When it is not deadline, people don’t work or pay the dues. They always wait for the due date to arrive. I think more or less it’s not very good attitudes to adapt. It has to change!

  50. Vivien Elaine A. Gavieta

    As evident in the successful companies in the global business realm, penetrating in the global market isn’t only about your resources, but is also all about what you do with your resources. Culture, which can be translated into country’s set of attitudes, beliefs, and competencies, is a huge factor that can either make or break a country’s chance into going international.

    When we speak of make or break, it is allowing no middle ground between success and failure. In the business realm, Filipinos possess a few cultural factors that can either spell great success or failure in the country’s international venture.

    One is the “hiya” or “shyness”. Filipinos can be preoccupied with or the urge to please other people just to avoid hiya (shame or embarrassment). When a certain business proponent takes time to present, filipinos are unlikely to DIRECTLY REJECT a proposal, even when they do not agree with it. Though this culture can open opportunities for establishment of good relationships and to have wider scope of connection, but in maintaining a good standing in the Global market, this culture is a no-no. To get ahead in the market, the most useful tool is the power to say “No” to things that are taking up time but are not taking much productivity.

    Second is our tendency to mistake benchmarking into fault-finding. While it can be good to use western standards as our benchmark and having openness to the business ideas or practices from outside sources, sometimes the game breaker, is while doing such, we at the same time, stress our own minus points, find fault in our behavior, underscore our weaknesses and fail to be proud of who we are.

    Lastly, it’s the hospitality. While it may seem that this is our strongest point, but there can an underlying element that can break us, and that is Filipino’s feeling of inferiority to other races. Filipinos look at foreigners with high regard, to the extent that we give priority to foreigners than their own countrymen. It’s as if we Filipinos are still under colonization. Sometimes, the higher the status of the person visiting, the better our preparations would be, to the extent of spending hard-earned money just to offer visitors with a great service.

    Indeed, these Filipino culture can make us or break us. At some point, we are guilty with at least one or two of these traits. it’s our own Filipino habits that are lagging us behind more successful Asian neighbors. Therefore, we need to ged rid of these habits, to fit in the global market.

  51. ROSALIA BATERNA

    The factors which filipino posses that can make or break the goal when penetrating the global market through multinational and across-cultural teams. And cultural orientations provide unique views and approach to different problems.And of course communication is very important in the business, because without communication the business cannot be effective. Then good etiquette in the business, we need to adapt the atittude of the U.S.worker that they come on time or before time, so that you can penetrate your business into global market.

  52. Ma. Carmela Joy D. Alegada

    We filipinos have a great tie with our religion and that many country as well always put into consideration. We are divided by seas and borders but in all we are connected with the religion and the belief that we follow and believe in and by doing so we can create a better association and bond to countries that shares the same belief. that is a good thing but how bout those countries that contradicts with the religious norms and practices that we have? This puts a challenge in organizing connection with this countries. Although we are in the process of having greater connection with other countries we can’t deny he fact that there are still countries that are not open to do trade and want to keep to themselves. This also pose a risk reaching out globally. And I guess it all comes down to acceptance and be more diverse in our ways and means.

    • The best part of our culture that we can capitalize on doing business globally are being hospitable ,hardwork and dedication on our endeavors and business, turns with this attitude and culture business has the chance to compete globally.

  53. Geiczar Ross D. Real

    Filipinos are known to be friendly. These qualities can make or break when competing globally in the market. Why? Aggresive leaders will take advantage of your friendliness that might hinder your success or participative leader might consider you as an ally in doing business.

  54. Jocelyn D. Palomo

    We Filipinos have cultural differences with other countries that make us distinguished as Filipinos. Our way of life were greatly influenced by the Spanish, Americans, Japanese, Chinese and Malay which is why it is an advantage that Filipinos can deal with all types of people due to this influence brought about long time ago.

    With this, we adapt fast and well with other race and since English is the language of world business and we Filipinos can converse very well using English, and foreign businessmen will not have difficulty in starting a conversation.

    We Filipinos are very creative and resourceful. We are very innovative and always come up with the smartest and brightest ideas for our business. We are very brave to take the risks always and do not give up easily. We always try to squeeze everything in our end to make things happen.

    We are family-oriented. We always have a soft heart for the family. We try to do our best to give a good life to our family and we do whatever it takes to give them a brighter future. This gives us the sense of responsibility and that we will do our best to make our international business venture be successful because we do it for the sake of our family.

  55. According to the article, Cultural Differences can make or break the goal of multinational companies. It may help in the success of the business by having diverse ideas and solutions to problems arising in the company, however, it may also create a loophole when misunderstandings also rise together. The article also discussed three factors of Cultural Differences which are Communication, Etiquette and Organizational Hierarchy. For us Filipinos, I think the cultural factors that we possess that can make or break the goal when penetrating the global market are Filipino values in treating family and friends in doing business transactions because it is commonly known in the Philippines that in doing business such shall be given consideration and discounts due to debt of gratitude and social status in which there is an idea arising that goods from abroad are better than those good produced locally.

  56. Ma. Lourdes B. Navarosa

    It is necessary that every Filipino will have this so called paradigm shift in every aspect of life and this will help them to be more confident and become competitive in the global market. Filipinos had cultural strengths and traits that are beneficial.
    As follows are the Filipino traits that we should be proud of:
    1. Caring ways
    2. Hospitality even abroad (warmth)
    3. Pinoy creativity
    4. Adaptability – Filipinos when being mainstreamed with different people, cultures, situations that makes us well rounded being. Filipinos adjust easily to different cultures, learn the language easily, and even get along well diverse people.

  57. Cybel Valaquio

    We Filipinos, also possess these cultural factors that makes us different from others and these cultures of us will lead us to our goals in penetrating the global market. We value relationships, whether in family, community or in business. Filipinos give importance in every relationships. To us, business relationships are considered as personal relationship because we do the best that we can to serve customers and produce quality work and products. Also, we cooperate well and please our business partners to build a long-term relationship with them. Another is, we have this patience and endurance that even when the going gets tough, we keep on moving and pushing our goals. Though we fail, we stand again and we do not easily give up. Filipinos are also flexible and can do multi-tasking; able to do other functions related to business. Also, Filipino business people are responsible, hardworking, creative and has initiative. These factors can give success to every filipinos who will enter the global market.

  58. Gekka Kaye Eusebio

    Filipinos are known to be hospitable, strong, religious and family-oriented. We also manage to smile despite any unwanted calamities in life that we look on the positive side of things. On the other hand we have this ability to adapt things instantly like a chameleon. These factors will now make the Goal of penetrating the Global market but it will not be easy. A Filipino entrepreneur needs to experiment. They may fail once or twice or they may be successful right away but we do not know unless we try. On the other hand, For whatever things will going to do, either you can make or you can break in a business we have this sense of humor and resiliency that we can make it through whatever it takes., That makes us different from other nation that’s our own TATAK as Filipinos our SMILE despite the downside, our JOY on our success and ONE Filipino nation on both ways.

  59. betsy mariz demontano natavio

    Wherever you go in the globe, you will always see Filipinos working who are willing to sacrifice just to provide good future to their families. Filipinos are globally competitive. Most of the people in the Philippines know how to speak the universal language, English, which we consider an advantage. We can easily communicate and speak our minds wherever we go. We can easily express our thoughts and ideas to other race. We, Filipinos are very adaptive and can easily adjust to other culture. We know how to respect their beliefs and their way of living. We are empathetic and always care for others. Conquering the global scale is never easy, but Filipinos are positive in every endeavor and that what makes a dream to penetrate global market a reality. We are very passionate and resilient. Whenever every plan fails, we always make sure to rise in every downfall especially in the business.

  60. Joshua Japitana

    I believe that each person is different from each other as well as the nations. Each nation is different and unique but we had survived for we try to accept each other’s differences. Below is one of the factors i think that can affect our goal of penetrating globally.

    *Filipino’s Pride- We always wanted to feel special and valued. We wanted to be praised and adored which i think would be a problem when we try to hit global. Other races are not that vocal or showy of their appreciation to us and it can create a drama or commotion. If only filipinos can manage this innate attitude we have, we will be able to attain a much more healthy and peaceful place for trading both locally and globally.

  61. Mirriam Dickinson

    Flexibility and being Sociable people should possess by each Filipinos in order to break the gosl when penetrating the global market. Flexible talks about your capabilities and able in whatever you are doing no matter what the circumstances are. It also defines you of being tolerant and willing to compromise in different circumstances. Sociable brings you to success, it takes you to a higher level when you socialize your target market. Be an out-going person and knows how to level himself/herself kn different cultures/nationalities. In this way you can build relationship as well as gain knowledge in interacting with them.

  62. Jholina B. Indac

    As we go on global markets, we can face different possible challenges to possess. It should be made by fully understanding and ready for any instances that may occur. Entering global business can’t be scary anymore, but the best thing to do is following the rules and guidelines. To be fully ready before taking new step and being aware of a new culture.

    Here are some tips that may i suggest to be done before entering a global business
    1. Getting to know how much would company spend to invest global business.
    2. Plan ahead of time
    3. Employees to be will trained
    4. Prepare the product or services to be offered
    5. Further research about the environment , culture, and society.

  63. Joe Salvador Mercado

    4. What do you think are other factors (cultural) which we Filipino possess that can make or break the goal when penetrating the global market?
    We Filipinos are one of the most flexible people in the world when it comes to blending with another people’s culture.
    Communication, etiquette and organizational hierarchy, out of three, what can make Filipinos or break us is communication. We are sensitive when it comes to etiquette and organizational hierarchy but when it comes it communication this is where I think we are having issues with.
    We are good speakers, we can speak English, almost everyone, we learned the language since pre-school though communication is not just speaking but knowing culture behind the word or phrase, gestures, body language and a lot more. We should be aware of the unspoken language, we have our own as well but when it comes to exporting or putting up business globally, we should be the ones who are likely to adjust and not them adjusting to us. In business, we should know what to say and what not to say at the right time. Thus, for me, communication can make us or break us out of the three.

  64. Pearl Joy Ortiz

    Business is an emotional thing, according to motivational speaker and business expert Lloyd Luna. If you prepare to succeed, then prepare to fail. Mostly, others are just prepared to succeed. Many businesses fail because of global competition plus the risks and challenges. But Filipinos are resilient. Filipinos have the ability to recover or adjust easily to change. Most likely we are risk takers (in a positive way). Filipinos are intelligent and skilled people. We possess good work ethics that foreign employers like among other nationalities. We treat authorities/persons in an organization with high respect. Being the 3rd English speaking people worldwide enabled us to have good communication skills. We are hardworking, patient and determined. These to me are distinctly inherent factors that could make a Filipino penetrate the global market.
    I think one factor that can break a goal of a Filipino to penetrate a global market is arrogance. He tends to be bossy and put high regard of himself. He only believes in his own judgment. He refuses to listen to his workers and decide on his own. Interaction is important to maintain good rapport with your customers, business partners, and workers. Good communication skills play a vital role in global business for planning and strategizing to adapt and be accepted by your target market.

  65. Nadia Diana S. Casas

    The other cultural factor that can make or break Filipinos goal in penetrating in the global market are the language/communication and values of other people, some understands your intentions, provides you assistance, and be of good help in the industry. While there were people in other countries belittling you, betrays you. Backfighters and gaining informations of techniques for their own benefit. One best example is that I have known this particular company having a conference with foreign partners speaking in different language and spoken negatively and filtered by a translator into positive statements, while without knowing on their part someone in the Filipino group of traders has this officer who understands their language, there been caught that everything he told are being filtered. So basically this only means that values is also a pride that a particular natives of that country possesses. Filipinos should be very keen and careful when choosing who to interact,trust and invest with.

  66. Claudine Faith Ignacio

    Many of the entrepreneurs has a huge plan when in comes to there products and services. Some of them creates different styles and marketing strategies in order to generate profit and to increase their sales. Business people does not only thinking inside the box. They have a broad thinking to where or how can they improve their products and services and on how they can expand their businesses. Going global is one of the things to be considered. But expanding or entering the global business is not as easy as we think because of the challenges that we may face. There are lots of factors also to be considered in order to make your business successful in global setting. One factor is that the cultural differences. Different countries have different cultures and laws that we have to apply and to know for the business to operate effectively. Cultural factors sometimes affect the negotiations. Different places have also different approaches when it comes to negotiation, some are direct and straight to the point when in comes to confrontation and some are opposite, like we Filipinos are more concern on how we can deliver our statements on a nice way without offending the other people. Organisational culture, wherein business can be done in different approaches. Some may go in offices in business attire and some may wear casual attire. It is important to know the cultures or norms of different companies or organization. And body language, understanding the manners, behavior and gestures is necessary to become aware especially in different countries. To become more observant to avoid being misinterpreted by people who you are dealing with. Knowing this things can help businesses and individuals achieve and penetrate the global market.

  67. Jackie Lou A. Lasola

    Filipinos are hardworking and perseverant. We will not easily give up when the things goes around doesn’t favored to the things what we exactly planned. Instead, we keep struggling and working so hard until things changed. Going into the global market is not easy, aside of language barrier and cultural differences which we encountered normally, a tough criticism and competition will of course Filipinos will be facing. But this would not stop Filipinos instead, we always find ways to make things possible.

  68. Jackie Lou A. Lasola

    Filipinos are hardworking and perseverant. We will not easily give up when the things goes around doesn’t favoured to the things what we exactly planned. Instead, we keep struggling and working so hardly until it changed. Going into the global market is not easy, aside of language barrier and cultural differences which we encountered normally, a tough criticism and competition will of course Filipinos will be facing. But this would not stop Filipinos instead, we always find ways to make things happen.

  69. Jonathan Reeve B. Miranda

    Filipinos have less discipline than other nationalities even though we take pride in our country. We will do whatever we want to do without thinking about the result. Laziness is a big problem when you are doing business globally, where every seconds count. There is no time to be lazy for every business because it might be the reason for your business to lose in the global market. Most Filipinos settle in their comfort zone that is why there will be no more room for improvement. When they are done expanding some few things in their business and it is doing great then they just want to be like that for the rest of time. Improvement of the business from time to time is essential to maintain the face of the business on top and not be left out by other competitor. Filipinos are also full of their selves that they believe they won’t need opinions and judging of anyone. They are not open for more learnings especially when they know that they are superior from others. This attitude can cause their business goals ruined and soon the business will shut down.

  70. Nelly Jean D. Tiburcio

    The cultural difference is one of the major factors to consider in International Business. Anyone who is considering doing business across the border line of the country or in International Business must understand first the culture of the other country they are planning to have business with. And if ever they don’t have this, they can hire somebody to become their adviser. But learning the culture and most specially the language of the host country is an advantage, for you can win their trust easily. Every country has its own rules and regulation to be followed in order to have a good partnership with them. And as Filipino traders we possess some cultural factors that can make it to penetrate in global market. That we Filipinos are very respectful, for the moment we can understand we are taught to be respectful in our elders and not just in our family members but for the other people. Being respectful can help us penetrate the global market for foreign culture is different from what we used in our very own country. What we assume or think is different from them so we need to respect individual country differences. Respecting their culture and norms is a big help in starting up a new foreign operation. For mistakes can hard to correct and disrespecting other countries culture can destroy the whole operation. Respect can and will matter in International and Global Market.

  71. ANTONIO CUENCA JR.

    Q1. What do you think are other factors (cultural) which we Filipino posses that can make or break the goal when penetrating the global market?
    A1. One factor (cultural) to consider is that Filipinos are superior in building a good relationship. According to the Social Media Marketing firm (February 21, 2017), Filipino spent more time of about 4.17 hours a day (2016) in social media using smart phones. By this, using smart phones can connect worldwide wherein you can build a good relationship with foreign countries; you can buy, sell and offer anything through social media (FB, Tweeter, Youtube, and other online platforms such as Zalora, Lazada, shoppe, OLX, etc.). We are now living in a convenient world, where everything come and goes easily. Because of these online platforms, building a good relationship with foreign countries can easily penetrate global market by following, liking, and advertising using social media. We cannot deny the fact that technology changed rapidly. According to Mr. Mamacus, business is just like swimming; either you swim or you sink.

  72. Jezamie Nicolas

    What can make a Filipino unique in a global market?
    We all know that our country is struggling with the poverty, corruption, inflation, low labor cost and other problems that our company is facing. But despite of this struggling problems, we Filipinos always have this kind of attitude of being optimistic in all aspect of our lives and in our business.
    Being hospitable is one of the many qualities of a Filipino. A lot of foreign investors like the hospitality we shown to them that’s why they keep on going back here in our country.
    We respect the norms and cultures of our business partners in the other countries.
    Eagerness of bringing the pride to our country is also the best traits of Filipinos. Like Hidilyn Diaz in weightlifting competition, Manny Pacquiao in boxing, Monique Lhuillier in fashion industry and many more. Like them, we are eager to do our job in order for us to compete in the global market.
    We Filipinos, know how to speak in English for us to successfully communicate with the other businessman or exporter.
    Lastly, we are the hardworking people, we are willing to extend our hours just to finish our work and to comply all our customers/consumers needs or wants.

  73. Ira May Macadagdag

    4. Cultural Differences and Their Impact in International Business
    Question: What do you think are other factors (cultural) which we Filipino posses that can make or break the goal when penetrating the global market?
    Ans. What can make Filipinos stand out? Despite of the negative comments there are many things that we can be proud of as a Filipino. Filipinos are known all over the world for remarkable qualities that brings pride to our country. We are highly relational and hospitable in nature. We are compassionate and creative. Being creative is not an exclusive trait that we do possessed as a Filipino but what makes us stand out is our spontaneity, artistry and humor that would altogether define Filipino creativity. Aside from being creative, we Filipinos can also be proud of our adaptability. We adapt well in any difficult situations that highlights our resilience as a nation. We tend to make do with what little we have and find pleasure in simple things. Aside from that Filipinos are highly educated and 70%-90% of us are fluent in English that makes us communicate and do business successfully in any countries all over the world.

  74. Florencia Sumcio

    In cultural differences, communication is vital to the success of any business endeavor, and Filipino have great communication skills, that is why Filipino can explore can compete in the global market because of a customer service oriented and because of the culture values that we are proud of.

  75. Rustom Padios

    Filipino culture is very rich, we have Spanish, American and Japanese culture in us. This diverse culture has both positive and negative impact on our individual behavior, may it be in our personal lives or in managing business. This unique culture that gives us our own identity, play am important role in doing business in the global market. Here are some of the cultural factors and behaviors that I believe will either make or break business success in the global market.
    One of the specific cultural factor I consider to help business success in the global market is the Filipino attitude of creativeness and innovativeness. We Filipinos are very created and innovative; used plastic bottled water made into beautiful vase designs, old clothes made into rags, and even broken crystal and other recyclable materials into amazing home decors. This Filipino values as part of our culture will surely help us in penetrating the global market. Another part of our culture which I believe is also crucial in making it big in the global market is the value of resiliency. Yes, we are very resilient. Very common example are the Filipinos still smiling despite the calamities they are experiencing. So what is the relation of this value to being globally competent? Well, this value is important knowing that global market is very challenging and tough. Being resilient especially in a very competitive arena is an edge.
    On the contrary some of the cultural factor I believe will break the Filipino dream in penetrating the global market are also the values that is part of our culture. One of these is the value of bahala na. I guess it’s safe to say that we are risk taker, risk taker that we didn’t have any plans before deciding on something. In doing business globally, strategizing is very crucial and important. We cannot just simply say “bahala na” or come what may. Every step must be well prepared and well planned.
    To sum it up, Filipino culture, values and identity can either make or break a Filipino dream of making it big globally. It requires faith, courage, hardwork, and determination if one dreams to become a global business.

  76. Agnes Catherine M. Jose

    Part of Filipino culture is the love for family. Filipinos work hard to take care of their families. This is a value very helpful in business since, due to the commitment to provide for family, hiring Filipino employees means that they are diligent and dedicated at work. A firm venturing internationally mainly composed of Filipino employees can be an advantage since aside from the work skills and English language proficiency, Filipino’s love for their Filipinos make them hardworking. Furthermore, also common in the Philippines are families working together in a corporation. This is beneficial since loyalty will not be in question. But on the other hand, this may pose also an issue in decision making, since most of the decisions will be based on the hierarchy of family members and not on the value of the idea presented.

  77. Riza Mae H. Villanueva

    There are some factors which Filipinos possess that can easily break the goal when penetrating the global market and these are: 1) Always late for an appointment; 2) Husband is the one who usually work than a wife; 3) Wife usually handles the money in the household; 4) More companies prefer male over female in top management; 5) When the boss is not around, the mice are playing; and 6) When it not deadline, people don’t work or pay the dues. They always wait for the due date to arrive. I think more or less it’s not very good attitudes to adapt. It has to change!

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