Working with McDonald’s: More than a job, it’s a journey
Behind the golden arches and heartwarming aesthetics of McDonald’s branches are their dedicated employees who work tirelessly to ensure that every customer receives their favorite meal with exceptional service. From the smiling faces who take your order to the skilled kitchen staff who prepare your food, the McDonald’s crew remain true to their commitment to transforming a simple meal into a happy meal.
Before stepping through the doors of a branch and embarking on their professional careers, the journey of a McDonald’s employee, whether service crew or manager, begins with world-class training programs designed to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles. These programs serve as launchpads for service crew members before they work in the counter or the kitchen, as well as for aspiring managers before they take the lead at their respective branches.
After completing their training, McDonald’s employees are ready to step into their roles with excellence and a day-to-day drive to deliver the best results. Armed with knowledge from its training programs, its customer-driven employees strive to exceed the needs and requirements of customers dining in and taking out.
With compassion and integrity instilled in them, McDonald’s employees demonstrate their concern and care in their interactions with customers, colleagues, and community members alike while upholding the highest standards of honesty, responsibility, and professionalism.
These world-class employees are supported by an inclusive culture that makes employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work and bring out their best service. Through recognition programs and engaging activities, McDonald’s also fosters a positive employee experience that keeps its workforce motivated and connected.
Breaking fast-food work stereotypes, McDonald’s Philippines employees are given different opportunities to advance their careers and different options for growth. Precy M. Tongol, a former manager trainee who is now a restaurant general manager at McDonald’s, went through the company’s development programs and is a living testament to the career pathways available in fast-food service.
“I have built my identity as a career woman here at McDonald’s Philippines.” Mrs. Tongol proudly shared in an article shared by McDonald’s Philippines last International Women’s Month. “Running a restaurant of a million-dollar business is not that easy, but McDonald’s has equipped me with enough knowledge and skills to perform at my best. I am empowered to decide what is best for my restaurant.”
McDonald’s Philippines also takes pride in being an equal-opportunity employer. The company has provided career opportunities to working students, part-timers, and, recently, even senior citizens (SC) and persons with disabilities (PWD) regardless of background, religion, gender, or sexual orientation.
The quick service restaurant giant (QSR) has also given access to training development and advancement opportunities to more members of the community with programs like the Workforce Immersion Program (WIP) and the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES). Through these projects, McDonald’s Philippines has employed over 16,000 Filipino youths and close to 100 SCs and PWDs nationwide.
One of these senior citizens is 63-year-old Larina Castro who is working as a crew member at McDonald’s Bluebay in Pasay City. A retired seamstress, Ms. Castro joined McDonald’s as her son lost his job and her husband didn’t have work.
“Enjoy po ako kasi lahat ng tao dito mabait sa akin. Masarap magtrabaho na welcome ka ng lahat — simula sa mga managers hanggang sa mga crew. Lahat sila mababait (I enjoy working here because everybody is nice. It’s great to be working in a place where everyone is welcoming — from the managers to the crew. They are all very nice),” Ms. Castro was quoted as saying.
As a result of this harmonious workplace culture, McDonald’s Philippines has been recognized as one of the Philippines’ best employers in the inaugural list of The Philippines’ Best Employers for 2023 and 2024 via international market research firm Statista.
One of the country’s biggest employers with more than 60,000 employees in over 740 stores nationwide, the QSR was awarded by Statsita a commendable rating of 8.31 out of 10, based on respondents’ likelihood to recommend the company to friends or family, with 0 indicating the least likelihood and 10 signifying the direct recommendation.
Recognized as a top employer, the company continues to set the standard for excellence in the fast-food industry. Through rigorous training, recognition programs, and opportunities for advancement, McDonald’s empowers its workforce to thrive and excel. With their dedication, employees deliver exceptional service, leaving a positive impact on customers, colleagues, and communities.
At McDonald’s Philippines, it’s more than just taking orders and assembling them. It’s a journey made possible by a supportive and fulfilling environment for its employees.
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