RESPECT-find out what it means to me, and to you! What are the cultural differences? Simply saying “we want a culture of respect” or listing it as a value is not enough! That can mean different things to different people based on their culture. Without understanding those different cultural expectations of respect, it will be challenging to foster the relationships you want, successfully attracting and retaining business and talent.
You may say to your coaching client, “let me know if I were to say or do anything that unintentionally offends you.” Within some cultures, they would not tell you. It would be considered rude and offensive to do so. How would you know if you unintentionally offend them? How do you explore “Cultural context and identity”, part of the ICF updated coaching competencies (part of our program since 2014)? Coaches, develop this crucial competency for your and your clients’ success in our upcoming Culturally Intelligent Mentor Coaching +Certificate Program, with the opportunity to earn your ICF credential (99% Success since 2005) plus the Culturally Intelligent Coaching™ Certificate and up to 24.5 hours of coach education: all in a 3 month time frame, wow!
“More clients, expanded business, taken me to the next level with my coaching and credentialing”, Liz Dobbins, PCC. “My clients feel fully seen and heard as all their cultural identities are recognized and embraced, moving more confidently toward their goals and dreams. Pausing for a bias or assumption check allows them new ways to move forward.” Tami Hollingsworth-Dowd, M.Ed, MC, PCC “The Question That Changes Everything”, Forbes, Antonia Bowring, PCC; all alumni.
Frequently in team meetings people are viewed as speaking up too little or too much and this is brought to our leadership and team coaching. This can also be culturally based. In some cultures, to speak before the elders speak and you are called on would be considered rude. In other cultures, not speaking up enough could label you as a non-contributor. If your cultural expectation is everyone speaks up and you notice someone not speaking up, how do you handle that? Or vice versa? Women walk an especially fine line, receiving more critical feedback including both: speaking up too much (sometimes labeled the “b” word for this) or not enough, according to research.
Without understanding and communicating effectively regarding the different cultural mindsets and expectations, misunderstandings which can lead to costly conflict and talent loss can occur.
Do not just say “we want respect”! Find out what it means culturally to unlock all potential and success!
It is impossible to not work interculturally, even in your own community, organization. Do not let cultural misunderstandings block you and your organization’s potential and success.
Apply for an Unlock Potential strategy session today.
To our Culturally Intelligent success, we are in this together!
My 2 minute ICF 2021 Circle of Distinction Award Acceptance speech, mentioning Respect as one of ICF’s values I embrace:
Marilyn O’Hearne, MSW, MCC, LLC
CQ, Master Certified Coach, International Coach Federation: Unlocking Potential, Prosperity and Peace through Leadership, Team and Mentor Coaching; Coaching Supervision
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