For aspiring leaders who want to become global citizens and
increase their global fluency, here are some suggestions to get started:
1. Target at least one fundamentally different culture.
While it may be tempting to live in a culture similar to your own — for
example, Britons working in America — the most compelling learning experiences
come from living in cultures that are sharply differently from your own.
Chinese professionals working in South Africa, for example, will find their
existing cultural assumptions challenged as they gain increased humility by learning
local languages and coping with different norms.
2. Spend time studying overseas. Studying in different
cultures enables young leaders to understand cultural nuances and become actively
engaged with global organisations. Global organisations prefer candidates who
have studied abroad because these early experiences will broaden your
perspective about seeking fascinating global opportunities throughout your
life. Look for opportunities, and if you're already out of university, ask if
your organisation offers programmes to give you experience abroad.
3. Learn the local language. As English becomes the language
of business, it is tempting to get by with limited knowledge of local
languages. That's a mistake. Learning local languages enables you to appreciate
cultural nuances and develop more personal relationships. Being fluent in
multiple languages makes it easier to learn new ones and opens up career
opportunities.
4. Don't judge cultural differences or local people. When
your new environment is sharply different from prior experiences, it's tempting
to make snap judgments about your experiences and stay attached to your own
culture. Resist that temptation by observing, listening, learning, and
understanding rather than judging. Use your insights to improve local ways of
operating, but don't rush to criticise.
5. Share international experiences with your family. Living
in new countries brings your family much closer together and will be a time for
growth, bonding and learning as a family. Hold parties for your local neighbours
join a local church and get involved in your children's school. Host regular
visits from parents and close friends. Balance breadth and depth in your
travels to explore many different areas and countries, and spend time talking
with local people. But don't travel so much that you fail to get deeply
involved in your new community and explore its richness.
