Cultural Intelligence: What’s Love Got to Do With It?

A few days ago I received a fresh copy of the first 2012 edition of one of my favorite journals – the Harvard Business Review (HBR).  I was immediately drawn to one of the articles highlighted on the cover – “Three Skills Every 21^st-Century Manager Needs.” Can you guess what the first skill identified was? You got it, cultural intelligence (CQ). Actually they used yet another new term called “cultural code-switching.” The basic argument was that it is not enough for managers to appreciate diversity but they need to be able to translate that appreciation and motivation into appropriate and meaningful action. The points in the article line up well with how colleague and friend David Livermore defines cultural intelligence: the capability to function and manage effectively in culturally diverse situations. And in his book, Leading with Cultural Intelligence: The Secret to Success,” he  outlines a framework and process for how to become culturally intelligent.

In a nutshell, he suggests that to be culturally intelligent we need to develop four capabilities:

• CQ Drive –our level of motivation for engaging with other cultures

• CQ Knowledge – our understanding of our own culture and the culture of others

• CQ Strategy – our plan for interacting with others

• CQ Action – our ability to adjust our behaviors and actions during our interaction with others (this is what the article describes as “cultural code-switching”)

The HBR article, Livermore’s work, and even our own daily observations and interactions (if we are really paying attention) remind us that the world is constantly changing, and that the world of work is becoming more culturally diverse than ever. I admit that I am sold out on this notion of cultural intelligence.  And I, both personally and professionally, have made the commitment to study the topic and be a positive voice in the conversation. But my passion is not just motivated by the desire to develop a 21^st century skill (although this is an imperative for us all). I’m passionate because I embrace the spirit behind CQ – the spirit that emanates from God’s commandment for us to love others (Matt 22:39).

In our interactions with other cultures I believe it is possible to make meaningful adjustments that are authentic and appropriate and still allow us to remain true our faith, values and convictions.  Whether we are in business or in the business of educating others, CQ matters. And it can have a powerful and life-changing impact as we seek to reach out to others with the compassion of Christ. And love has everything to do with it.

Dr. Sandra Upton

It is Never Too Late to Go to College

Approximately 20 years ago, my youngest child was just entering kindergarten. As I transitioned into this new stage of life, I felt a strong desire to go to college. Circumstances fell into place, and I was able to follow my dream.

At the age of 32, I stepped for the first time into a college classroom. I was fearful of the transition. I wondered what the professors would think. I wondered if I would be able to study, write papers, and do well on tests. I enrolled in a Christian college, and the professors put me at ease. Course work was challenging at times, but I worked hard and gained confidence in my abilities.
After I accumulated approximately 56 credits, a newly-designed program became available. It was an adult-accelerated program. If enrolled, I could complete my bachelor’s degree in less than 2 years. The newly designed program was a perfect fit for my family. I could still work, take care of my family, and attend classes only one night a week. I truly enjoyed taking classes with other working adults instead of with students who recently left high school. My learning was enhanced in the adult-accelerated program.
Today, I am blessed to be working in the adult accelerated higher education field, Professional and Graduate Studies (a division of Cornerstone University). I currently oversee programs related to ministry leadership, human services, TESOL, and education. I have such a passion for it because I realize the benefit this type of program offers the working adult.
Recently, I worked with a team to create a new program: Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

The program is perfect for those who want to learn how to…
• understand yourself better
• respond to those in trauma
• diffuse angry situations
• relate to and communicate well with people struggling with mental disorders.
• interact with others from different cultural backgrounds
• see that while all are tarnished by sin, all are children of God
• build a life that matters

Returning to or enrolling in college for the first time as a working adult can be scary. Take it from my experience; it is well worth the effort. You will be transformed.

Take the chance and see what Cornerstone can do for you.

Dr. Linda Haveman