At GLS 2016, Erin Meyer challenged us to gain a deeper understanding of cultural differences. Diverse preferences in cross-cultural communication can negatively impact our ability to lead and cause us to misunderstand each other. To become effective leaders in a globalized reality, we need to understand and make adjustments for our cultural preferences.

Do you know how you would score on the eight scales on Erin’s culture map?

Take Erin’s quick 25-question culture assessment here.

After you have taken the assessment, reflect on what you’ve learned.

• Did your personal culture map seem accurate?

• How might your cultural preferences impact your cross-cultural relationships?

• What inaccurate perceptions might a co-worker or friend from another culture have of you?

• What inaccurate perceptions might you have had of a co-worker or friend from another culture?

• How can you counteract those perceptions and improve your leadership with people from other cultures?

In an increasingly globalized world, cross-cultural understanding is becoming an essential skill. Most leaders will, at some time in their careers, interact and lead people from different cultures or countries. Blind spots in this arena can lead to confusion and distrust.

Self-awareness is your first next step. Take the assessment today!