The work culture in Indonesia is different and unique. Foreigners who are familiar with this work culture will have a better chance of succeeding in Indonesia. Within a company setting, business culture can be characterised as a collection of values, ethics, and attitudes. In business, culture is one of the most important factors that impacts the planned course of action. From secretarial to manufacturing to production, culture has an impact on administration, decisions, and all company functions. This article will provide insight into how the work culture in Indonesia is.
Work Environment in a Typical Indonesian Office
The following are some considerations for an Indonesian workplace’s working environment:
Addressing superiors
The Indonesians are aware of their superiors’ importance and are accustomed to addressing them with appropriate titles. In Indonesia, you must address them as “Bapak” or “Ibu,” which means “Sir” or “Miss or Ma’am,” respectively. Until and unless they are given permission, no one can address them by their first name.
Making the leaders happy
In an Indonesian company, there is a culture of pleasing their leaders. In general, assistant employees defer to their superiors or bosses and do not dispute their decisions. When their superiors offer orders for any form of job, the assistants or subordinate employees never object since they just want to please their leaders.
Avoiding clashes
Employers in Indonesia make every effort to avoid any conflicts. In an Indonesian workplace, there is a peaceful atmosphere.
Friendship between co-workers
In an Indonesian workplace, there is a sense of calm and friendly. Coworkers are not afraid to ask personal inquiries, and as a result, a friendly atmosphere develops.
Personal criticisms
There is a culture of private criticism in an Indonesian working environment. People there would rather keep their criticism to themselves than debate it in public. This culture helps to defend the employers’ pride in this way.
Greeting the most superior first
As a subordinate employer in Indonesia, it is critical to understand the company’s superiors. It is considered proper etiquette to greet the most senior person first.
Giving handshakes
Seniors in Indonesia are offered handshakes first, albeit the technique differs by company. Indonesians are accustomed to giving light handshakes.
Being professional at all times
Employees must maintain a professional demeanour during working hours, regardless of the situation. They must be helpful, friendly, and good team members, and they must refrain from gossiping to avoid any problems.
Be punctual
It is appreciated if you arrive at work on time or early.
Expressing gratitude
Employees in Indonesia strive to be helpful, pleasant, and understand one another, and saying “thank you” after receiving assistance from a coworker is considered acceptable etiquette because it expresses gratitude.
Typical Work Schedule in Indonesia
Working hours will be seven to eight hours long, any time worked beyond this will be deemed overtime, and the pay will be adjusted appropriately. The following are some samples of working hours:
Normal working hours
Working hours in Indonesia are typically from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. These hours apply to all employees, including the private and public sectors. Saturday and Sunday are traditionally free days, therefore the workweek is usually five days long, from Monday to Friday.
Working hours for 12 hours
When a corporation has a lot of work to do, the average working day is longer than eight hours. Long shifts are the term for this extra time. Working hours are needed to be 12 hours a day with one or two days off in many agreements between the company and the employees.
Adjusting to the work culture in Indonesia
Foreigners should consider the following factors when adjusting to work culture in Indonesia:
- Learn why learning and using the Indonesian language is so important.
- Recognise Indonesia’s hierarchical culture.
- Prepare to mingle with Indonesians. Planning a holiday trip together is also a good idea.
- Learn about the Indonesian cuisine.
- In front of employers and other citizens in Indonesia, demonstrate good values, morality, and ethics.
- Always be on time.
How Does Work Culture in Indonesia Differ From That of Other Nations?
Work culture in Indonesia is distinctive. It is easy to discern the variations between its work culture and that of other countries. When comparing the work cultures of Indonesia with the United States, for example, the biggest difference is in scheduling. In terms of timetables, the American work ethic is tighter than its Indonesian counterpart. On the other hand, in terms of deadlines and schedules, Pakistani work culture is more tolerant than the Indonesian work culture.
Workplace culture differs from country to country. Work cultures in certain countries differ from the personal and moral beliefs maintained by the majority of Indonesians. For example, the attitudes of Indonesian corporations toward personal criticism and making their bosses happy may differ from those of Western companies.
Employee working hours in most other nations, however, are similar to those in Indonesia. Workers labour for about eight hours, with double shifts arranged if the company has a lot of work.
Conclusion about Work Culture in Indonesia
If you are a foreigner who plans to work or incorporate a company in Indonesia, you must be aware of the work culture in the country. We hope this article will give you the big picture of whom you will work with. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us by filling out the form below or simply email at us anita@permitindo.com.
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