Reference no: EM133646997
Question: Analyze and respond to the conversation below about intercultural communication:
"Intercultural communication and cultural intelligence play a vital role in facilitating how one understands and bridges a gap among diverse cultures. As we reflect on the Great Commission as a global mission, we must implement practices such as intercultural communication and cultural intelligence as we strive make disciples of all nations.[1] As revealed by a scholar, global missions have the following qualities: 1) the creation of new and multiplication of existing social networks and activities that increasingly overcome traditional political, economic, cultural and geographical boundaries; 2) the expansion and stretching of social relations, activities and interdependence; 3) the intensification and acceleration of social exchanges and activities; and 4) subjective plane of human consciousness.[2]
Livermore stated, "cultural intelligence is the capability to function effectively across national, ethnic, and organizational cultures."[3] Being culturally intelligent gives an individual a better perspective of the different cultures. A survey was conducted of 40,000 people that revealed the following four capabilities found among the participants that were culturally intelligent: CQ Drive (Motivation); CQ Knowledge (Cognition); CQ Strategy (Metacognition); and CQ Action (Behavioral).[4]
Cultural intelligence has its challenge as cultural communication. Cultural communication is about "the study of communication that involves, at least in part, cultural group membership differences. It is about acquiring the necessary knowledge and dynamic skills to manage such differences appropriately and effectively. It is also about developing a creative mindset to see things from different angles without rigid pre- judgment." [5]
According to Toomey et. al, there are several benefits from exercising intercultural communication. For example, "increased global workplace heterogeneity, increased domestic workforce diversity, engaging in creative problem solving, comprehending the role of technology in global communication, facilitating better multicultural health care communication, enhancing intercultural relationship satisfaction, fostering global and intrapersonal peace, and deepening cultural self-awareness and other awareness." [6]
In closing, Livermore provided great advice about how to continue leading with cultural intelligence. He suggested getting rid of one-size-fits-all leadership mantras, consciously adapt your leadership style according to the situation and followers, do not be a chameleon to suit every individual and situation encountered, and lastly, just be yourself.