Multicultural or Intercultural? Is there a difference?
Many workplaces today are already multicultural, with a beautiful mix of people from various backgrounds. This is fantastic! But have you considered the difference between simply acknowledging these differences and actively fostering interculturality within your team?
Multiculturalism is passive – it recognises the presence of diverse cultures. Interculturality, on the other hand, is active. It focuses on how these cultures interact, communicate, and build understanding.
As an anthropologist and inclusive leadership specialist, I've spent over a decade navigating the complexities of intercultural communication and competence. From leading humanitarian programmes in conflict zones to living with a Saharawi refugee family, I've witnessed first-hand the immense potential and challenges of diverse teams and backgrounds. In today's globalised world, fostering effective intercultural management isn't just a fancy term – it's a necessity for businesses of all sizes.
The challenges you face as a leader
Leading an intercultural team can feel like navigating a labyrinth. Here are some common roadblocks you might encounter:
Communication styles: Direct and assertive communication can clash with more indirect or relationship-oriented approaches. You (as the leader) need to be mindful of these differences and adapt your communication style to ensure clear understanding.
Non-verbal cues: A simple gesture or facial expression can have different meanings across cultures. Be aware of the diverse meanings behind body language to avoid sending unintended messages.
Decision-making: Hierarchical cultures might favour top-down decisions, while others value consensus building. Understand these variations and adjust your approach to encourage participation from all team members.
Building bridges: strategies for leading with empathy
The key to unlocking the true potential of your diverse team lies in empathic, inclusive and human leadership. Here's how you can achieve this:
Create a welcoming and inclusive environment that celebrates diversity: Cultivate a work environment that celebrates everyone's unique background and fosters a sense of belonging. Recognise and celebrate the different ways your colleagues approach holidays, cultural events, and traditions. This not only allows you to foster deeper connections and create a space where everyone feels valued, but it also helps you and your team broaden your knowledge and challenge unconscious biases.
Promote open communication: Encourage open communication and active listening to bridge cultural gaps. Regular team meetings, icebreaker activities, and opportunities for informal interaction can foster a sense of trust and understanding.
Celebrate differences and build team cohesion: Don't strive for assimilation. Instead, celebrate the unique strengths and contributions that each culture brings to the table. A diverse team is a powerful team! Compile and share information about different cultural celebrations within the organisation. Use this information to organise team events or celebrations that embrace the diversity of your team. By creating a space for shared understanding and appreciation, you'll strengthen your team spirit and build a more cohesive work environment.

How Eúnoia Leadership can help: consulting & training
With Eúnoia Leadership, I don't just talk the talk, I walk the walk. My experience allows me to offer a variety of services to help you achieve your intercultural management goals.
Consulting: I can evaluate your business or NGO on diversity, inclusion, and interculturality. I design personalised action plans, including Equality Plans, and provide ongoing support and monitoring.
Training: I design and deliver transformative training programmes, equipping professionals with skills in implicit bias, diversity, equality, inclusion, intercultural competencies and community engagement.
Ready to unlock the power of your diverse workforce? Contact me today to discuss how my consulting services or training programmes can help your organisation thrive in today's globalised world.
Comments