What does cultural intelligence (CQ) refer to?

Cultural intelligence (CQ) is defined as the capability to work effectively in culturally diverse situations. This concept encompasses a range of skills, including the ability to adapt to new cultural environments, interpret and respond appropriately to cultural cues, and navigate interpersonal interactions with people from different backgrounds.

Having high CQ means that an individual can engage effectively with people from various cultures, recognizing and respecting their differences while also finding common ground to facilitate communication and collaboration. It is not merely about having factual knowledge about different cultures, as would be implied by memorizing cultural facts, nor is it solely focused on understanding hierarchies or just practicing customs. Instead, it involves a dynamic integration of knowledge, skills, and awareness that allows a person to function effectively across diverse cultural contexts, making it crucial for success in our globally interconnected world.