Random Things

Some random things I have learned/observed in the workplace for the past two weeks:

1. While doing some computations during training, I asked the facilitator for a scratch paper and she thought I was referring to some form of "art paper". Turns out I should have said "scrap paper."

2. I have learned in my first month in Oz (mostly while watching TV) that locals pronounce the letter Z and H differently. I should have been used to it by now but sometimes I still get confused when my office mates say "Zed" or "Heytch."

3. A thirty-minute lunch break really is a thirty-minute lunch break. I used to give my husband a hard time when he brings home left-overs of his packed lunch. He keeps saying he has to go up to the cafeteria where the line in using the microwave is too long and by the time he's done heating his food, he only has 10 or so minutes to go before his half an hour lunch break is over. Now I understand so we stick to sandwiches and fruits for lunch (and it's healthier).

4. Weekends are really a big thing for Aussies. When they ask you how your weekend was, they are genuinely interested to know and answering with a banal "great" or "good" is not enough. Expound even if you just stayed home and watch DVDs or just did the laundry. Likewise, it's polite to ask them back and listen as attentively as they did to you. In Manila, unless you're really good friends with someone, a standard "hi" for greeting is enough. Sometimes tango na nga lang. Here, Aussies are big on socialization whether with acquaintances or even strangers.

5. Sports is another huge deal---correction, a GARGANTUAN deal, and  it's your ticket to a free-flowing conversation with anyone. I should start getting myself a team. *pressure*

6. They make you leave work at four... how cool is that? By 5 pm, there's hardly anybody left on the floor. Work is work but family time is big priority for Aussies so no one goes over time unless it's official. For them, be productive for seven/eight hours in the office and then go home... that's the key to keeping your working life sane.

7. While we Filipinos think that the Philippines is mainly known for government corruption, calamities and crime rates, I was surprised to learn that Aussies have very nice things to say about our country and people:

• When we speak in English, they like the "Manila accent" as it sounds very clear, polite, proper and even relaxing (huh? hehe).
• Every one seems to have heard of Boracay, Cebu and Camarines Sur and how one should go on a holiday in these places at some point in their lives (Aussies just love the beach, surfing and wake boarding).
• Filipinos are hardworking, respectful and honest people that's why they're an asset in the workplace.

8. It's such a amazing experience working in a multicultural state. You meet different types of people every day and learn something new about their culture. Every one is also accepting and respectful of each other's backgrounds and you don't feel so different or foreign. People are generally helpful, supportive and friendly, it's impossible not to feel welcome in such a harmonious environment. Just when you think you're done growing up, you learn so much more.