Respect is a nice reason to be interested in our cultural intelligence. However, it is not what motivates us to gain such type of intelligence. Why is it not enough, noble though it may be? Because our intentions can't always be understood through our behavior. Your best intentions may be misunderstood, and even upset and hurt people when your behavior is rude in their culture. Customer service representatives have to accurately interpret and respond to interactions and negotiators have to be aware of culture differences because otherwise they cannot build trust and negotiate effectively, claims David Livermore, thought leader in cultural intelligence, in an article on management-issues.com.
Your default social skills are not always enough
In some cultures, being respectful means that you tell your partner things as they are, rather than walking on eggshells around people and softening possible disagreement. In another culture, an honest and direct statement may be perceived as very rude and lacking kindness. You could end up being seen as the direct opposite of a considerate person. Some cultures prefer saving face and indirect complaints and criticism.
Adapting to different cultures
Another example: when you want to buy a snack in New York, the staff will bark a curt question asking you what you want. People from outside New York might feel they had just been mistreated, but in New York, that is just the way they express their respect for the customers' valuable time. There is simply a willingness to serve customers as fast as possible – no time for chitchat.
Respect has many faces and forms
Traditionally, showing respect for your guests at a formal dinner means attention to detail, such as large, extravagant flower arrangements on every table. This is a well-intentioned gesture, but it may be inappropriate at an event dedicated to raising awareness about environmental responsibility. Giving the guests a potted plant as a present to take home is unconventional, but a better idea.
What is your experience with cultural differences? Feel free to share your comments below.
-jk-