To Joke or Not to Joke? A Qualitative Exploration of Expatriates’ Views on the Use of Filipino Workplace Humor

Abstract

Filipinos are known to use humor extensively. Although workplace humor is generally accepted by Filipinos, humor and humor appreciation varies across cultures. The purpose of this study is to explore the different views of expatriate employees on Filipino workplace humor. The study is designed to explain and understand the use of Filipino workplace humor from an etic perspective. Following the philosophy of interpretivism and using a phenomenological approach, this research aims to answer the question: What are the expatriate employees’ views on Filipino workplace humor? Five expatriate employees working in Makati City were personally interviewed using a combination of standardized, open-ended interview format and an informal, conversational interview style. Interview data were then transcribed and analyzed in verbal and paralinguistic terms. Participant responses were first compared and contrasted. Then, an open-coding procedure was conducted to facilitate the development of themes. Four themes emerged—(1) hierarchy, (2) human bonding, (3) balance, and (4) sensibility—and were discussed. The researcher concludes that the expatriates’ perceptions of Filipino workplace humor are hierarchy- and situation-based. Suggestions were made regarding the use of Filipino humor in the workplace and in general. Based on the findings, the study recommends that further investigation of Filipino workplace humor could be conducted using an emic perspective. A study on the use of Filipino workplace humor as a means to manage communication in the organization could also be investigated. The idea of an organizational joker could also be studied to assess its impact and on the organization.