Analysis of Cross-Cultural Leadership Practices

Analysis of Cross-Cultural Leadership Practices

Introduction

What are the most important aspects of being a leader?

Knowing your staff and building your leadership style around them.

Thesis: There are many different cultures in the United States, and understanding the people you lead is essential to being a great leader.

First main point: What are best practices regarding communication, problem-solving, employee motivation, goal and team orientation, etc., across cultural contexts?

A. Communication

Understanding that slang and idioms are not the best way to communicate in a global business setting.

Use familiar language domestically and literal language globally

Understanding Culture Values

B. Problem-Solving

1. Employing culturally agile leadership

Recruiting intercultural competent staff

Employee Motivation

1. Motivating employees by setting goals

Team orientation and how it contributes to the motivation and success of the overall plan.

The challenge of motivating a culturally diverse team (due to lack of understanding)

Second Main point: What challenges do leaders face in addressing cultural issues? How can those challenges be overcome?

A. Styles of communication

1. Aggressive communication

Passive communication

How each type resonates in different cultures

B. Language barriers

1. Different accents can be hard to understand ( Misunderstanding)

2. Body Language, Gestures, and Symbols

C. Cultural differences

1. Religious differences

Generational differences

Ethnicity differences

Third main point: What are the ramifications to an organization that does not respond well to cultural issues?

A. Employees may feel alienated

1. Employee doesn't feel empowered to speak their mind

Employees can not express individuality only when they are producing work

B. Damaging workplace relationships

1. Cultural stereotyping and prejudice lead to discriminatory practices and behaviors.

Misjudge people from other cultures

C. Creating a hostile environment and contributing to higher turnover.

1. Leader fails to take appropriate action when culture is disrespected

Hostile work environments cause employees to abandon their jobs or move to a more diverse company.

Conclusion

A. Aspects of a good leader

B. Being a culturally competent leader is essential today. Talented employees come from all over the world, and a great leader should understand and be patient when employing an employee of a different culture, ethnicity, or generation. It is essential to know your employee's backgrounds and how to adjust to their cultures in various settings to produce quality work and work ethic.