In today’s global and diverse workplaces, professionals regularly interact with people from many cultural backgrounds. Culture influences how we communicate, solve problems, make decisions, and build relationships. Misunderstandings can occur when we assume others share the same beliefs, values, or communication styles.
Developing the ability to recognize and adapt to cultural differences is an essential skill for effective leadership and communication.
In this chapter, you will explore:
- What intercultural communication is—and why it matters
- The concept of intercultural competence
- Key cultural value dimensions, such as individualism vs. collectivism
- How identity, power, gender, time, and communication style affect workplace interactions
- Practical models and tools, including Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions and the Intercultural Development Continuum (IDC)
These tools will help you better understand your own cultural perspective and improve your ability to communicate across cultural boundaries in a respectful, effective way.
