Philippines: Conversation

From ExecutivePlanet.com

Conversation

English is the official business language, so Americans may not find it difficult to strike up a conversation. Most correspondences, contracts, and other documents are written in English. Body language and hand gestures (e.g., a raised eyebrow, a faint smile, a scratch on the head) are also integral to how Filipinos express themselves.

If you’re a good conversationalist, engage in light conversation with your Filipino business colleagues either before and/or after the meeting, since establishing a cordial personal relationship is very important in Philippine business culture. This may involve being asked rather personal questions regarding your marital status, income, religion, and other sensitive subjects.