Working With the Thais: A Guide to Managing in Thailand

by Henry Holmes, Suchada Tangtongtavy

Synopsis : This book captures the very essence of the Thai value system and provides a relevant guide to successful, workable relationships with the Thais.

Genres: Asia

158 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1997

Reviews

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an important book to read if you're an expat in Thailand; or going to spend a significant amount of time in that role.

Some aspects of the book seem condescending, but, the longer you are here the more they start to make sense.
Other aspects of it still just seem so, so foreign I can't wrap my head around them, or cannot really understand how they could be considered cultural - as to my own cultural sensibilities and sense of humanity, they seem rude. But then again, in so saying, I feel I sound racist?

One thing I know - understanding Thai culture is not an easy thing for a Western expat, from the book it sounds like it's not easy for people from several other Asian cultures as well, and in the end we've just got to do our best to get along.

If you can't stomach or process all of it, don't worry, there are sections that aren't so difficult to grasp that are very helpful later on in the book as well.

I got my copy for 495 baht at the Kinokuniya in Siam Paragon; ignore the US Amazon.com $80 used copies and just buy it in Bangkok if you're interested.

[Sally Flint · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book, that a colleague let me borrow, was an interesting read and had I read it four years ago, when my work role changed to involve working mainly with a Thai team, I could have probably prevented a few 'flare ups' from occurring. Its purpose is to look at the cultural expectations, values and beliefs of both Thais and Westerners and to point out how these differences may create conflict and to consider how they may be avoided. Inevitably it stereotypes a fair bit, and I think it is quite dated now, as some of the Thai traditions may be changing amongst young people in the modern workplace. Nevertheless, at times, it is both insightful and useful. Understanding Thai concepts such as Kreng Jai and Hai Kiad helps understand how different groups of people work. Also, being aware of social structure and where you belong within it is valuable knowledge to have. Whilst the content, must be taken with a pinch of salt, people are people after all, it is well worth a read (it is only short) if you are in a situation of feeling somewhat isolated or misunderstood being a 'farang' working with a Thai team or visa versa.

[Amandeep Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Book. Although dated, I find almost all principles to be true specially working as only non thai in my office in Bangkok. The new generation currently though is very different and modern, a new edition by may be a new age author is due.
Meanwhile, buy this and read it if you plan to work in Thailand - you will either change your decision to work here or take it as an amazing experience to learn about new culture.

[Luke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Essential reading for expats in Thailand if you interact with Thais in an office setting.

[Catherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent read if you are working in Thailand. Written 1995 and still very applicable & relevant in 2016. As I was reading, I was thinking that in real life things are more complex than indicated, especially in an international conglomerate, and then the authors addressed such challenges in the last chapter. I will definitely be able to understand my clients' challenges (as a leadership coach in Thailand) much better thanks to this book.

[Jonathan Phelps · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has quite a lot of euro-centric viewpoints, however, it does provide a bit of good insight into how Thai culture affects what happens in the workplace. Though many views are outdated, and many of the situations apply to managing people in any country, I think if you plan on managing in Thailand, this is a must read.