What does it mean for leaders to be culturally intelligent?
The world is shrinking and leaders from different cultures are finding that they need to work together. Communication technology means that ‘global’ business is no longer just the remit of a few large organizations, but is increasingly the ambition of small businesses and individuals. It is also happening with sectors; the boundaries are blurring between the public, private and NGO sectors and leaders are struggling to understand one another.
For this, leaders need Cultural Intelligence—the ability to cross divides and thrive in multiple cultures. Cultural Intelligence (CQ) is the natural evolution from the now well-established notions of Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and Emotional Intelligence (EQ). Good leaders need all three if they are to lead effectively.
Common Purpose knowledge hub, based on the book by Julia Middleton, explores what it means to be culturally intelligent and offers ways to develop your own Cultural Intelligence; through videos, quizzes and insightful stories from other leaders. Here's just one highlight you'll find on the site, Common Purpose Founder and Chief Executive, Julia Middleton, speaking on the subject of Cultural Intelligence at TEDxEastEnd:
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