Are Filipino VAs Right for Your Business? Addressing the Accent Question.
While some Filipino VAs might have a slight accent (as we all do, right?), many of them have been specifically trained to speak in a neutral or American English accent, especially if they’ve worked in customer service before.
Let’s be honest…
When it comes to hiring virtual assistants from the Philippines, there’s a question that occasionally pops up.
It’s usually said in a hushed tone like it’s some big secret: “But what about their accents?”
We get it!
Talking to people on the phone is already tough enough — throw an accent into the mix, and suddenly, it feels like it could be a recipe for confusion.
Communication is everything. Whether you’re talking to a customer about a product or helping someone resolve an issue, you want them to understand every word clearly. It’s natural to wonder if an accent might make things a little harder for your team and your customers.
But here’s the thing: this concern? Totally overrated.
Let’s explain. Filipino Virtual Assistants are not just amazing at what they do because they’re hard workers dedicated to their jobs. VAs from the Philippines also tend to be highly educated, with many pursuing post-secondary school qualifications. Filipino VAs are, in fact, some of the best English speakers you’ll find. English is an official language in the Philippines, and many Filipinos speak it fluently.
And with one of the highest literacy rates in the world and high English proficiency levels, you can bet your VA would be highly skilled to tackle your business tasks.
But of course, if you’re worried about accents, you’re likely not just looking for someone who can write and operate in English. You’re likely looking for someone you’ll feel comfortable getting on the phone with your clients.
Accents are such an interesting topic in the Philippines (probably like everywhere else in the world).
With over 100 million people, Filipinos speak with multiple accents, depending on region, background, and education.
And while some Filipino VAs might have a slight accent (as we all do, right?), many of them have been specifically trained to speak in a neutral or American English accent, especially if they’ve worked in customer service before.
Meaning you get to choose the accent that would work for your business!
→ Want a ‘neutral-sounding’ accent? You can find a VA with one.
→ Would you prefer someone sounding more American? Yep! Possible.
You can even hear it in the video.
So, if you’ve been holding off on hiring a Filipino VA because you’re worried about their accent, it’s time to let that concern go. Filipino VAs are not only skilled, but they can also provide top-notch phone support that’ll make your customers feel right at home.
Hiring a Virtual Assistant from the Philippines can be a game-changer for your business. Don’t let your worries about accents prevent you from scaling your business.