Developing Inclusive Leadership through Coaching Cultural Intelligence
Coaching can be an effective way to develop the self-leadership required by inclusive leadership. The influence of coaching on organizational capability has only recently been discovered, but it is becoming a vital part of leadership programs. Read further and download my research findings regarding how developing inclusive leadership through coaching of cultural intelligence can improve organizational performance.
Efficient coaching requires integration into the overall strategy. To influence behavioral and performance patterns, leaders must have the opportunity to align coaching goals with their leadership strategy.
When cultural intelligence is combined with coaching, leaders will be able to motivate and engage multicultural teams. When a leader has an understanding of how different cultural dimensions and communication influence work performance, the organization can reduce frustration, misunderstandings and conflicts.
Learning styles are influenced by culture
The influence of culture on learning styles can be attributed to the varying emphasis on different aspects of personal development. This results in differences in thinking and learning patterns across cultures. The definition of rewards and punishments in a culture also reinforces its learning experiences.
Analytical thinking is given importance in certain cultures while others prioritize beginning with the big picture. In some cultures, the emphasis is on maintaining integrity in relationships, while others prioritize individual learning and adherence to deadlines and schedules.
The universal factor is that each culture has its own reasoning behind what is the best way to learn and work, yet how to implement it, is different. Culture influences how people complete tasks. Hence, culture is linked directly to an employee’s performance.
Understanding one’s culture and developing self-leadership skills are essential for leaders. Decision-making is a significant aspect of an individual’s life, and especially in a leadership role, leaders should be mindful of their decision-making process.
The preferred way of working is often the result of the culture where the leader has grown and worked. Thus, working styles are both biological and learned. Sometimes the culture suppresses biological needs, leading to frustration. The leader can accommodate each team member’s needs more easily if they are aware of their biases, attitudes and ways of working, and harness diversity into strength.
Why Inclusive Leadership is Important?
The benefits will be significant when cultural diversity is used as a resource instead of an obstacle. Cultures have always had unique characteristics, but especially during the past thirty years, cultures have become more interconnected with each other.
To foster positive behavior and culture within a company, a leader should prioritize helping their employees recognize the significance and worth of their work. While it may not be feasible or essential to grasp every culture around the world, it’s crucial for a leader to cultivate cultural intelligence, acknowledge their own biases, and grasp their behavioral patterns within a broader global context.
Is your company ready to start encouraging curiosity and expanding horizons? Read more about my research and the benefits of coaching here.
