Landing a job in the Philippines isn’t just about having the right skills on your resume. Companies here often look for qualities that go beyond technical abilities – things like being adaptable, showing initiative, and having a strong work ethic. These “soft skills,” as they’re often called, can make all the difference in whether you get hired and thrive in your career.
Why Are Soft Skills So Important in the Philippines?
Think about it: many jobs require you to work with a team, solve problems on the fly, or deal with customers patiently. These situations demand more than just your technical expertise. They require you to communicate effectively, be a team player, and show a positive attitude. In the Philippines, where strong relationships and a collaborative spirit are highly valued, these qualities are especially important. According to a recent study by LinkedIn, soft skills are increasingly important, with adaptability, collaboration, and communication consistently ranking high among the skills employers seek. This highlights the growing need for candidates to showcase these attributes alongside their technical skills.
Filipino culture often emphasizes things like “pakikipagkapwa-tao” (harmony and good relations with others) and “bayanihan” (working together as a community). These values translate into the workplace, where employers look for individuals who can fit in, contribute positively to the team, and uphold the company’s culture.
Adaptability: Rolling With the Punches
Life in the Philippines, and by extension, the workplace, can be unpredictable. From traffic jams causing delays to unexpected changes in project requirements, things don’t always go as planned. That’s why adaptability is a crucial quality. Can you handle change effectively? Are you willing to learn new things and adjust your approach when needed? For example, if a company is shifting to a new software system, they’ll want employees who are eager to learn the new system rather than resistant to change. Demonstrating your willingness to step outside of your comfort zone and embrace new challenges is key. Having flexibility is also important; are you able to quickly change between tools and processes, or pick up and run with unplanned assignments?
Example: Let’s say you’re working on a marketing campaign, and the client suddenly decides to change the target audience. Instead of getting frustrated, an adaptable person would quickly brainstorm new strategies and adjust the campaign accordingly. They’d see the change as an opportunity to learn and improve, not as a setback.
Initiative: Taking Charge
Employers in the Philippines appreciate employees who don’t just wait to be told what to do but actively seek out opportunities to contribute. This is called showing initiative. It means identifying problems and proposing solutions, taking on extra responsibilities when needed, and generally being proactive in helping the company succeed. Waiting for someone to tell you that the coffee supplies are low isn’t initiative; ordering more or informing the proper person that you have is.
Example: You notice a recurring problem in your department that’s causing delays. Instead of complaining, you research potential solutions and present them to your manager. This shows that you’re not just capable of doing your job but also invested in improving the overall efficiency of the team.
Work Ethic: Discipline and Dedication
A strong work ethic is a cornerstone of success in any field. In the Philippines, it’s often associated with “sipag at tiyaga” (diligence and perseverance). This means being reliable, responsible, and committed to your work. It encompasses things like punctuality, meeting deadlines, and consistently putting in your best effort, even when things get tough. A good work ethic is not just about raw output. Are you able to manage your time well, have a good attendance record, and maintain a consistent standard of quality?
Example: Even when you’re facing a challenging project with a tight deadline, you stay focused, work efficiently, and don’t give up until you’ve delivered your best work. You’re the kind of person colleagues can rely on to get things done, even under pressure.
Communication Skills: Being Clear and Confident
Effective communication is absolutely essential in any workplace. Can you clearly articulate your ideas, both verbally and in writing? Are you a good listener? Are you able to adapt your communication style to different audiences (e.g., colleagues, clients, managers)? In the Philippines, where English is often used in business, strong English communication skills are especially valuable, but this also includes Filipino communication skills. Are you aware and sensitive to cultural nuances in conversation? Are you able to communicate respectfully and warmly?
Example: You’re presenting a proposal to a client. You speak clearly, confidently, and persuasively, explaining the benefits of your solution and addressing any concerns they may have. You also actively listen to their feedback and adjust your approach accordingly.
Teamwork: Collaboration is Key
The Philippines, with its emphasis on community and “pakikipagkapwa-tao,” places a high value on teamwork. Employers want people who can work effectively with others, share ideas, and support their colleagues. This means being a good listener, contributing constructively to discussions, and being willing to compromise and collaborate to achieve common goals. Are you able to work in a team across different areas of expertise? Are you able to share your findings clearly and efficiently?
Example: You’re working on a group project, and there are disagreements among team members. Instead of getting defensive, you listen to everyone’s perspective, find common ground, and work together to find a solution that benefits the entire team through tactful communication.
Problem-Solving: Finding Solutions
Every job involves problem-solving to some extent. Employers look for candidates who can identify problems, analyze them critically, and come up with creative solutions. This requires a combination of analytical skills, critical thinking, and resourcefulness. Are you able to quickly understand the cause of a problem and how to best solve it?
Example: You’re working on a project, and you encounter a major obstacle. Instead of getting discouraged, you break the problem down into smaller parts, research potential solutions, and test different approaches until you find one that works. Thinking outside the box is valuable—are you able to devise new solutions that are not immediately apparent?
Customer Service Skills: The Customer is King (or Queen)
If your job involves interacting with customers, excellent customer service skills are essential. This means being patient, helpful, and understanding. It also means being able to handle complaints effectively and resolve issues to the customer’s satisfaction. Do you see things from the customer’s point of view and have empathy for their problems?
Example: A customer calls with a complaint about a product they purchased. You listen attentively to their concerns, apologize for the inconvenience, and offer a fair and timely resolution, even if it means going the extra mile.
How to Highlight These Qualities in Your Job Application
It’s not enough to simply list these qualities on your resume. You need to demonstrate them through concrete examples and accomplishments. Here’s how:
Quantify your achievements: Instead of saying “Improved customer satisfaction,” say “Increased customer satisfaction by 15% within three months by implementing a new customer feedback system.”
Use the STAR method: When answering interview questions that ask about your experiences, use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result. Describe the situation, the task you faced, the actions you took, and the results you achieved. This helps you provide specific and compelling examples.
Tailor your resume and cover letter: Customize your application materials to match the specific requirements of the job. Highlight the qualities and experiences that are most relevant to the position.
Prepare for behavioral interview questions: These questions are designed to assess your soft skills and personality. Practice answering common behavioral questions like “Tell me about a time you had to overcome a challenge” or “Describe a time you worked effectively as part of a team.”
Seek feedback: Ask friends, family, or career counselors to review your resume and cover letter and provide feedback on your interview skills.
Show, don’t tell: During an interview, avoid simply stating that you possess certain qualities. Instead, provide examples that demonstrate those qualities in action.
Network: Networking can help you learn about unadvertised job openings and gain insights into the company culture. Attend industry events, connect with people on LinkedIn, and reach out to people who work at companies you’re interested in. A Jobstreet profile can also help companies find you!
Use a Professional Email Address: Make sure your email address looks professional. Avoid using nicknames or unprofessional terms when applying for a job.
Culture Fit: Finding Your Place
“Culture fit” refers to how well your values, beliefs, and personality align with the company’s culture. Filipino employers often place a strong emphasis on culture fit, as they want to hire people who will integrate well into the team and contribute to a positive work environment. This also includes soft skills and other qualities that are not necessarily related to hard skills. This is not necessarily what you have to offer the company, but more on whether you will be happy, productive, and easy to work with.
To assess culture fit, employers may ask questions about your values, your work style, and your hobbies. They may also observe how you interact with other employees during the interview process.
To determine if a company is a good fit for you, research their values and culture online. Talk to current or former employees to get their insights. And during the interview, pay attention to the company’s atmosphere and the way employees interact with each other.
The Importance of Continuous Learning and Improvement
The job market is constantly evolving, so it’s important to be committed to continuous learning and improvement. This means staying up-to-date on the latest industry trends, developing new skills, and seeking out opportunities for professional growth. Being able to learn quickly is one thing, but showing your employer that you care about your craft shows loyalty and dedication.
This is especially relevant in the Philippines, where many industries are experiencing rapid growth and transformation. By demonstrating your willingness to learn and adapt, you can increase your value to employers and stay ahead of the competition. There are many ways to constantly learn. Try taking Coursera courses if you have more time, or try short EdX classes if you want to learn a specific technique.
Building Your Online Presence: A Professional Image
Your online presence can significantly impact your job search. Employers often check candidates’ social media profiles to get a better sense of their personality and values. Therefore, it’s important to maintain a professional online image. This means avoiding posting anything that could be considered offensive or inappropriate, and showcasing your skills and accomplishments in a positive light. Keeping your Facebook profile private while maintaining a professional LinkedIn profile is a safe bet. If you have certifications you can freely post them as a badge.
Consider creating a professional website or online portfolio to showcase your work. This can be a great way to demonstrate your skills and experience to potential employers. If you’re a writer, having a blog can boost your communication skills and passion for writing. If you’re a software developer, having a GitHub profile showing your projects is a great way to exhibit your skills.
Overcoming Challenges: Dealing with Rejection
Job hunting can be a challenging and sometimes discouraging process. It’s important to be prepared to face rejection and to learn from your mistakes. Don’t take rejection personally. Instead, analyze what went wrong and identify areas where you can improve. Reach out to the hiring manager for feedback, if possible. Network your way to another opportunity; perhaps that company isn’t a good fit for you, and it is wise to move on.
Maintain a positive attitude and stay persistent. Don’t give up on your job search, even if you face setbacks. Remember: persistence pays off and the right opportunity will eventually come along.
Negotiating Your Salary: Knowing Your Worth
Once you receive a job offer, it’s important to negotiate your salary. Research the average salary for similar positions in your industry and location. Be prepared to justify your salary expectations based on your skills, experience, and accomplishments.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate for a higher salary or better benefits. However, be polite and respectful throughout the negotiation process. Remember, salary negotiation is a two-way street. It is about getting a desirable salary or total compensation that matches your skills and dedication while not pricing yourself out of a job. While this is not always possible, a cordial negotiation is better than none at all. When figuring out what you’re worth, keep in mind that the cost of living in the Philippines is relatively more affordable than other parts of the world.
FAQ
Q: What if I lack some of the soft skills mentioned?
A: Don’t worry! Soft skills can be learned and developed over time. Focus on improving one or two skills at a time. Take online courses, attend workshops, or seek mentorship from experienced professionals. You can also practice your soft skills in your daily life, such as by actively listening to others and expressing your ideas clearly. It’s alright to be weak in some areas, so long as you can improve them.
Q: How can I showcase soft skills on my resume if I don’t have a lot of formal work experience?
A: Even if you don’t have a lot of formal work experience, you can still showcase your soft skills on your resume by highlighting your volunteer work, extracurricular activities, and personal projects. Focus on the skills that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for and provide concrete examples of how you’ve demonstrated those skills. A team project in school might be an example of team work. Tutoring underclassman in a subject is a way to show your communication abilities. Creating a club or group in school to help the community shows leadership.
Q: Are there specific industries in the Philippines where soft skills are more important than others?
A: While soft skills are important in virtually every industry, they are particularly crucial in industries that involve a lot of customer interaction, teamwork, or problem-solving. These include the customer service, hospitality, healthcare, and education sectors. A customer service representative must be able to de-escalate issues, while a healthcare worker must be empathetic to the patient.
Q: What’s the best way to handle the “Tell Me About Yourself” question in an interview?
A: Frame the “Tell Me About Yourself” question as an opportunity to pitch yourself. Briefly share your background, focusing on your relevant skills and experiences. Then, explain why you are interested in the position and how you can contribute to the company. Remember to highlight your soft skills and passion for the role. You want to show: (1) that you’ve done your homework by researching the company and the role, (2) that you’re a good fit for the company culture, and (3) that your skills are what the company needs. It’s best to have this well-rehearsed, and at the end, ask any questions you have prepared. This not only wraps things up nicely, but is a chance to show off your preparedness and enthusiasm.
Q: How can I research a company’s culture before an interview?
A: Start by visiting the company’s website and social media pages. Look for information about their values, mission, and culture. Read employee reviews on websites like Glassdoor to get insights into the employee experience. You can also try to connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn and ask them about the company’s culture. If possible, see if the company has been in any recent news. Doing so, you can impress your interviewer by showing you care, and you can start a normal conversation with them that shows you are likeable. Most companies aren’t looking just for skill, they’re looking for someone they want to work with every day.
Q: Is it appropriate to ask about salary expectations early in the interview process?
A: It’s generally best to avoid bringing up salary expectations too early in the interview process. Instead, focus on learning more about the job and the company. Wait until you have a better understanding of the role and your potential value to the company before discussing salary. If the interviewer asks about your salary expectations, you can provide a general range or say that you’re open to discussing salary after you’ve learned more about the position.
Q: How important is it to send a thank-you note after an interview?
A: Sending a thank-you note after an interview is considered good professional etiquette. It shows that you appreciate the interviewer’s time and that you’re genuinely interested in the position. A thank-you note can also be an opportunity to reiterate your interest in the job and highlight your key qualifications. Ideally, send it within 24 hours of your interview. If you do not have the email address of your interviewer, ask your recruiter.
Q: All other requirements being equal, do Filipino employers prefer Filipino or foreign applicants?
A: This can vary significantly depending on the company, the role, and the specific requirements. However, there is no broad, sweeping preference for either Filipino or foreign applicants. Some companies may actively seek Filipinos given their better understanding of the country, while other companies may prefer foreign applicants for their specialized skills and experiences that are in short supply locally. For some positions, foreign workers may even require a special labor permit. Focus on what you can control: ensuring you show that you have the skills and qualifications to do well in the role.
Remember, your job search is a journey comprised of many steps, setbacks, and learning opportunities. The more you prepare, the better your chances of succeeding.
Ready to put these tips into action and land your dream job in the Philippines? Don’t just read this article – implement the strategies! Start by updating your resume with specific examples of your soft skills. Practice answering behavioral interview questions using the STAR method. Network with people in your industry and research companies that align with your values. Embrace continuous learning and stay positive throughout your job search. Your dream job is waiting, and these underrated qualities are a part of your key to unlocking it!
References:
Jobstreet
Coursera
EdX
Glassdoor
