Working for an Australian company, whether remotely or in-country, can be a rewarding, career-defining move. The pay is often competitive, the work-life balance is real (not just a buzzword), and the culture is refreshingly down-to-earth. But before you say “yes” to the next Aussie job offer, it’s worth pausing to ask: Is this the right fit for me?
Here’s a guide to help Filipino professionals navigate the interview process, understand what makes a great Australian employer, and spot the signs that this could be your ideal workplace.
1. Understand the Company – Not Just the Job Title
Before the interview, take time to research the company:
- How big is it?
- What industry is it in?
- What kind of products or services do they offer?
- Do they have offices in Australia only, or do they operate globally?
- Do they already work with Filipino staff or remote teams?
Why this matters: A small startup with 5 people will have a very different pace and culture compared to a mature company with 500 employees. Understanding the size, structure, and growth stage will help you anticipate expectations and work style.
2. Ask About Team Dynamics
During the interview, try to understand:
- Who will you be reporting to?
- How big is the team?
- Are there other Filipinos or offshore staff on the team?
- How does the team communicate, Slack, email, daily check-ins?
Look for companies that have experience working with virtual teams or offshore staff. It usually means better processes, clearer communication, and more respect for your time zone and culture.
3. Observe the Interviewers Carefully
Here’s where it gets interesting. Watch how they interview, not just what they ask.
- Are they curious about you as a person?
- Do they ask thoughtful questions, or just list tasks?
- Do they explain what success in the role looks like?
- Do they listen well, or talk over you?
- Are they respectful about your time and experience?
Red flag alert: If they focus only on deadlines and deliverables without talking about the team, growth, or collaboration, it might be a one-way relationship. You want a company that sees you as a partner, not just a productivity tool.
4. Clarify the Basics Upfront
Before accepting any offer, ask about:
- Working hours (Is it fixed? Flexible? Do they expect you to be online during their business hours?)
- Workdays (Australian companies typically work Monday–Friday, but some industries differ)
- Equipment and tools provided
- Holidays (Will you follow PH holidays, AU holidays, or both?)
Being clear on these points avoids future misunderstandings, and helps you determine if the job fits your lifestyle.
5. Get a Sense of the Work Culture
Australian work culture is often praised for its:
- Direct communication (They value honesty, no sugarcoating)
- Casual professionalism (They’re friendly, but expect accountability)
- Outcome focus (They care more about results than clocking in hours)
- Work-life balance (Most Australians really do unplug after work)
What Filipino workers should be aware of:
- Australians are usually less hierarchical than Filipino workplaces. You’re expected to speak up and contribute ideas, even to senior managers.
- You might not get frequent, formal feedback. It doesn’t mean you’re doing badly, it just means you’re trusted to get on with it.
- Joking and casual conversation are part of the culture, but always stay professional.
6. Look for Cultural Indicators
You can spot a good Australian employer by how they talk about:
- Inclusion and diversity
- Their current offshore or Filipino team
- Long-term staff retention and support
- Training and development opportunities
- Values beyond just “making money”
Bonus tip: Ask what the team does for fun, social events, online trivia nights, or casual Friday catchups? These small things say a lot about the company vibe.
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Your Own Questions
Remember, interviews go both ways. Asking smart, respectful questions shows confidence, and helps you make an informed choice.
Try questions like:
- “What does success in this role look like after 6 months?”
- “How do you onboard new remote team members?”
- “Can you tell me more about the team I’ll be working with?”
- “Do you have any other team members based overseas?”
If they welcome these questions warmly, it’s a good sign they value openness and trust.
8. Opportunities Beyond the Screen
Many Australian companies offer perks or incentives beyond the pay check, some of which can be life-changing:
- Short-term visits to Australia for team training or bonding
- Skills development or certifications paid by the company
- Long-term opportunities for career progression
Australians generally appreciate loyalty and reward it well. If you deliver great work, they often give you room to grow, not just tasks to do.
Choosing the right Australian employer isn’t just about the pay or the job title. It’s about fit, cultural fit, team fit, and values alignment. If you ask the right questions, stay curious, and listen carefully, you’ll find the kind of employer that sees your value and invests in your success.
For Filipino professionals with the right mindset, working with an Australian company can offer not just a pay check but a pathway to purpose, pride, and professional growth.