Knowledge Zone

Integrating into the Taiwanese workplace starts with understanding the culture.

Every country's workplace has its own unspoken rules. Understanding Taiwanese workplace culture can not only prevent misunderstandings but also help you build good interpersonal relationships, making your work smoother. Here are 10 things foreign professionals need to know in the Taiwanese workplace.

1. LINE is the primary tool for work communication.

In Taiwan, LINE is not only a personal messaging app, but also an important channel for work communication . Many companies create LINE work groups, and managers may also assign tasks through LINE.

Recommendation: After starting work, proactively join the company's LINE group and ensure timely responses to messages. It is recommended to reply to work-related messages during working hours.

2. Indirect expressions of refusal are more common than direct rejection.

Taiwanese people tend to express themselves tactfully in the workplace. When a colleague says "Let me think about it" or "This might be a bit difficult," it often means that they disagree or have concerns.

Recommendation: Pay attention to tone and the implied meaning of your words. If you are unsure of the other person's meaning, you can politely confirm, "So you mean...?"

3. Punctuality is basic courtesy.

Punctuality is highly valued in Taiwanese workplaces. It is recommended to arrive 5-10 minutes early for meetings, work, and appointments. Being late is considered disrespectful to the other party's time.

If you will be late: be sure to notify us in advance, explaining the reason and your expected arrival time.

4. The way you address someone is very important.

Recommendation: When you first start working, observe how your colleagues address each other and then use their names. If unsure, using job titles is the safest option.

5. Exchanging business cards is a formal etiquette.

Exchanging business cards is a common courtesy during business meetings or initial visits to clients.

• Present your business card with both hands, text side facing the recipient.
• Take a close look at the business card after receiving it; don't put it away immediately.
• During the meeting, place the other party's business card on the table for easy reference.

6. Lunch break culture: Everyone is sleeping.

In Taiwan, most offices have a lunch break from 12:00 to 13:00. You'll see many colleagues napping at their desks , and the office lights may be off. This is normal!

Recommendation: Keep quiet during your lunch break and avoid talking loudly on the phone. You can also use this time to rest or go for a walk.

7. Company dinners are a great opportunity to build relationships.

Taiwanese companies often hold departmental dinners, year-end parties, and spring banquets. These are not just meals, but also important occasions for building interpersonal relationships .

suggestion:

• Try to participate as much as possible and demonstrate team spirit.
• It's perfectly fine not to drink alcohol; you can substitute it with tea or other beverages.
• If there are any religious dietary restrictions, please inform the organizer in advance.

8. When you encounter problems, ask questions proactively; don't keep doing it in your head.

Taiwanese managers typically appreciate subordinates who proactively ask questions . When faced with uncertainty, it's better to ask directly than to guess and make a mistake.

Suggested ways to ask: "Excuse me, I'd like to confirm something..." "Should this part be...?" Politely confirming won't be seen as a lack of ability, but rather as demonstrating a serious attitude.

9. Basic formats for email and written communication

There are basic etiquette rules for workplace emails in Taiwan:

• Begin with : "Hello, Manager X," or "Dear X,"
• Body text : concise and clear, highlighting key points.
• Ending with : "Thank you" or "Thank you for your assistance."
• Signature : Please include your full name, title, and contact information.

Note: CC (copy) culture is very common in Taiwan. Remember to CC relevant personnel and supervisors for important matters.

10. Learn about Taiwan's important festivals

Understanding Taiwan's festivals can help you participate in conversations and activities with your colleagues.

A friendly reminder: The period before the Lunar New Year is the busiest time in Taiwan and also the peak season for job changes. After the Lunar New Year (after the 15th day of the first lunar month), it's a good time to look for a job.

Final advice

Cultural adaptation takes time; there's no need to rush into perfect integration. Taiwanese people are generally friendly and helpful. If you encounter something you don't understand, feel free to ask, and most colleagues will be willing to assist. Maintain an open mind and respect the local culture, and you will definitely find your place in the Taiwanese workplace.

This article provides general observations on workplace culture; however, company cultures may vary.