More and more US, European, and even Canadian businesses are opting to outsource parts of their operation to other countries. Aside from being cost-effective, it will help business owners concentrate more on what they do best. In addition, if done properly outsourcing will give a business a big boost in productivity, improved quality, and ultimately an increase in profits. Probably the most outsourced jobs or positions are those that are related to customer service or support. Information Technology comes in a close second.

Asia plays a big part in outsourcing, particularly the Republic of the Philippines. Filipinos are as skilled, if not more, as their American or European counterparts but labor costs are significantly less. As proof, the call center industry in the country is constantly growing, and it is growing fast. The number of call center companies in Manila alone has reached over a hundred, with many more in line.

Here are a couple of reasons why Philippines is the country of choice for global companies looking to outsource.

1. Filipinos are friendly and service-oriented by nature. Hospitable is a word commonly attributed to Filipinos. They treat visitors the way visitors are meant to be treated: with utmost respect and care for their well-being. This trait is carried over to their work, that is why Filipinos are perfect for jobs requiring customer interaction.

2. English is Philippines second language. Filipinos are taught English at a very young age. In fact, it is part of every primary, secondary, and college curriculum. Almost all Filipinos understand basic English. It is widely used in television, radio, and print mediums, making Filipinos adept at conversing with Americans and other English-speaking nationalities. A common problem with call centers is customers and clients that are not at ease with outsourced service. They believe that a person living far can not possibly understand or help them with their current situation. Filipinos eliminate this problem because they do not have an easily recognizable accent, unlike Indians and Chinese.

3. Filipinos are knowledgeable in American culture. American TV shows and movies are big in the Philippines. Younger Filipinos love listening to American artists, and they are up to date with the latest trends in technology and fashion around the world. In short, Filipinos are adopting American culture as their own. This knowledge helps bring down communication and culture barriers between them and the western world, making Filipinos easier and much pleasurable to work with.

4. State-of-the-art facilities. The Philippines is home to some of Asias best business and technology hubs. Eastwoods City Cyberpark, Fort Bonifacios E-Square IT Park, and Alabangs Northgate Cyberzone are just some business center of note. More are underway as the demand is gaining on the countrys supply.

5. The Philippine economy is rapidly growing. There is not a better time to outsource to the Philippines than now. The government is actively encouraging companies to invest in the Philippines, thus The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) was born. PEZA established special economic zones and grants fiscal and non-fiscal incentives to promote economic growth.