Cultural Illuminations

MELA 5, DAY TWO: 7 MARCH 2014

Yesterday the spotlight was on interpersonal behavior. This morning's sessions aim to illuminate intercultural behavior, and why leaders must broaden their perspectives in an increasingly globalized work world. 

Inter-Cultural Intelligence is the watchword of Marco Blankenburgh (International Director, KnowledgeWorkx) – the ability to interpret and react appropriately to the culturally defined behavior of others. Like the seen and hidden portions of an iceberg, the drivers behind people's actions can range from attitudes that may be easily observable, to values and beliefs that may be hiding deep beneath the surface.

What is interesting about Rafal and Farid out for a stroll? The fact that each is observing and mimicking the other's characteristic way of walking. 

Oooh look, it's Hamid! (Correction: It's Salim Al Mawali imitating Hamid.)

As surely as leaders need to be self-conscious in their interpersonal relations, it is incumbent on us to appreciate our own cultural underpinnings. Is ours an "honor society" or a "shame society"? Are we motivated by power or fear? Facilitator Riyadh Moosa moderates the conversation.

Mansoor Al-Shamri demonstrates his Italian side by speaking with his hands. Facilitators Susan Sutterfield, Sami Ammous and Ernst Bruderer listen in.

Majd, apparently, also has Italian genes. Facilitator Dan Ciprari can relate to that.

That's not Italian. That's just Lebanese.

John King returns ("Return of the King") to talk about listening. And to listen about talking. Effective communication begins with listening and ends with speaking, not vice versa. People listen when they hear value that they can connect with. 

Does anyone hear any value in what John is saying? Thank you, Omar and Elham!

People also jot things down, when they hear value in what is said. Mounib and Noor demonstrate.

Practical application of Inter-Cultural Intelligence from this morning's lesson: Salah Albilali, Ghareb and Mohammed are exhibiting culturally defined behavior common to the Gulf countries. Observe the relaxed body language and prominently revealed dentition. Conclusion: John has said something funny.

Samer with Jassim Sharshani. No scientific commentary required. See above for answer.

Asim Alsaawi exhibits precisely the intense listening skills that make for a great leader. Meanwhile Samira Fadhlani wins herself a place on today's list of MELA's expert gesticulators.