Cultural Sensitivity

Introduction

Cultural sensitivity is the awareness and respect for cultural differences. In our globalized world, cultural intelligence is essential for effective leadership, teamwork, negotiation, and business expansion across borders.

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Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions

Dimension	Low Score	High Score
Power Distance	Equality, flat hierarchy	Accept hierarchy, authority
Individualism	Collectivist, group focus	Individual achievement
Masculinity	Cooperation, quality of life	Competition, achievement
Uncertainty Avoidance	Comfortable with ambiguity	Need for rules, structure
Long-Term Orientation	Short-term, tradition	Future, persistence
Indulgence	Restraint, strict norms	Gratification, enjoyment

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Cross-Cultural Communication

High vs. Low Context Cultures

• High context: Implicit communication, relationships matter (Japan, India, Middle East)
• Low context: Explicit, direct communication (USA, Germany, Scandinavia)

Communication Tips

• Be aware of nonverbal cues
• Avoid idioms and slang
• Listen actively, confirm understanding
• Respect different communication styles
• Be patient with silence (valued in some cultures)

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Cultural Intelligence (CQ)

CQ is the ability to function effectively across cultures. Four components:

• CQ Drive: Motivation to learn about cultures
• CQ Knowledge: Understanding cultural differences
• CQ Strategy: Planning for cross-cultural interactions
• CQ Action: Adapting behavior appropriately

Developing CQ

• Study other cultures
• Travel and immerse yourself
• Build diverse relationships
• Reflect on experiences
• Seek feedback from people of other cultures

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Business Implications

• Negotiations: Relationship-building vs. task-focus
• Management: Directive vs. participative leadership
• Marketing: Adapt messaging for local values
• HR: Compensation, feedback, motivation differ
• Teams: Meeting styles, decision-making processes

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Conclusion