Getting Lost In The Journey Of Cultural Competency

Building inclusive leadership strategies requires a commitment to unlearning, understanding, relearning and innovation. As leaders working toward a more equitable and just world, it is helpful to look at diverse ways those who have come before us have built the foundation we are leading from. This article focuses on building cultural competency and its connection to being an inclusive leader.

I love to travel. There’s something about being on a plane, heading to somewhere new, passport and hope in hand, looking for a new adventure. Perhaps the best part of travel is getting lost in a city I have never been in. For some, this could cause anxiety and potential stress. Not for me. Getting lost gives me the opportunity to live like a local. To stumble into a cafe and have a coffee. It allows me to slow down and be intentional about the next stop on my adventure.

Cultural immersion provides space where I can foster a better sense of societal norms. It grows me individually by expanding my perspective of my individual place in the world.

For some, this may cause uneasiness, however building cultural competency in a global community is extremely important. Cultural competency involves navigating and cultivating an environment that embraces differences. It is the ability to understand, appreciate, and effectively interact with individuals from various cultural backgrounds. Building cultural competency requires a keen awareness of one’s own worldview, a positive attitude toward cultural differences, and the development of skills to navigate and respond to these differences appropriately. In this dynamic setting, cultural competency is a foundation for creating workplaces where individuals with diverse values, beliefs, and mores can thrive.

While we are not all privileged to have time where we can travel abroad and get lost with those that live locally, here are some ways to become a more culturally competent leader:

1. Build an awareness of yourself and personal biases

Cultural competency begins with self-reflection. As an equity and inclusion strategist, it's imperative to be conscious of your own worldview and the potential biases that may shape your perspectives. Understanding how firsthand experiences influence your thoughts and actions allows you to approach situations with a heightened awareness and openness.

2. Develop positive attitudes toward differences

Fostering a positive attitude toward cultural differences is at the core of cultural competency. Embracing diversity goes beyond mere tolerance; it involves celebrating the unique perspectives that individuals from various backgrounds bring to the table. Encourage a workplace culture that values differences as strengths, fostering innovation and creativity.

3. Understand and respect varied values and beliefs

In the dynamic tech industry, teams often comprise individuals with diverse values, attitudes, beliefs, and mores. Cultivate an environment where these differences are not just acknowledged but respected. This involves creating policies and practices that accommodate various cultural norms while ensuring fairness and equality for all employees.

4. Respond appropriately to cultural differences

Cultural competency extends to the ability to respond appropriately to diverse perspectives. Equip yourself with the skills to navigate cross-cultural communication effectively. This includes adapting your communication style, being mindful of non-verbal cues, and demonstrating empathy in understanding the nuances of unfamiliar cultural contexts.

5. Learn and honor different cultures

Stay informed about the diverse cultures represented in your workplace. Actively seek opportunities to learn about the backgrounds of your colleagues. This knowledge not only enriches your own cultural competency but also signals a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.

6. Build meaningful relationships across cultures

True cultural competency is demonstrated through the establishment of meaningful relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Encourage cross-cultural collaborations and mentorship programs within your organization. By fostering genuine connections, you contribute to a workplace culture that values diversity at its core.

Remember, cultures are ever-evolving and changing – therefore, cultural competency is an ongoing journey rather than a destination. And chances are you’re going to get lost along the way. And that’s OK. Just remember that you play a pivotal role in shaping inclusive environments where all of us can thrive. By embracing these principles, you contribute not only to the success of your organization but also to the broader goal of creating a tech landscape that is diverse, innovative, and welcoming to all.

So go ahead and get lost. You’ll probably learn something new along the way.

Photo by Richard Bagan on Unsplash