In this week’s final post about leading with cultural intelligence (CQ), we look at steps 3 and 4 in the process of developing more cross-cultural effectiveness:

Step 3: CQ Strategy (Interpretive)

CQ Strategy is your ability to effectively strategize when crossing cultures. Can you draw upon your CQ Knowledge to plan an appropriate strategy? Your usual ministry strategy wont have the same effect in every culture so CQ Strategy is needed to develop a plan of action, revise the plan as needed and assess the effectiveness of the strategy in the particular cultural setting.

Step 4: CQ Action

Finally, CQ Action is your ability to adapt appropriately in a range of cross-cultural situations. Can you effectively accomplish your goals in different cultural situations? When working in a different culture, it may seem like a good idea to mimic what you see; however, locals often perceive this as humorous or worse yet, insulting. On the flip side, not adhering to any cultural norms or behaviors may come across as disrespectful and impede your success. Developing CQ Action will help you decide when to adjust your behavior to fit a cross-cultural setting and by how much.

Enhancing CQ is proven to enhance your effectiveness in serving the people inside and outside your mnistry. It contributes to your personal development as a leader and best of all, it allows you to treat people with a greater degree of dignity and respect, whatever their cultural background and thereby make the world a better place.

To learn more about CQ and take a free assessment, check out resources at cq-portal.com and davidlivermore.com/cq.