I've been back in the USA for 5 months and thinking about cultural re-entry issues lately. A lot has been written on this over the years, but most companies and non-profits don't implement it. They offer less support for re-entry than they did preparing you for your overseas work. Our organization was much better than the average! I also enjoyed a great book, "The Art of Coming Home". But here are some quick thoughts.
1) You do weird things for a while even though you try not to. I cognitively know that most bathrooms in the USA have toilet paper, but I still carried a roll with me the first few weeks. A colleague also pointed out that I still re-confirm appointments 24 hours before the appointed time (probably out of a fear the 'monsoon' rains or an unnounced strike will come up?!).
2) You slowly remember who's who. Living overseas is all about understanding a new network and who are the influencers versus the followers. You listen or filter advice based on who it comes from. Upon return, I'm reassessing (especially in the professional sphere) which organizations or people are still on the forward edge and speak with credibility.
3) You notice odd, small changes in your home culture. The explosion of gift cards for sale immediately caught my attention upon return. The amount of postal junk mail people receive. And more.
3.5) You enjoy the small pleasures. Like snow falling this morning and the windows that seal completely. And sinking my teeth into a brownie...or a beef hotdog.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Friday, December 23, 2011
For deep experiences, is salad bowl or melting pot best?
I was priviledged to have an informational interview with Janet Bennett, a pioneer and thought leader in the intercultural communications world, a few days ago. Among her many insights, I was struck by a comment on recent findings about study abroad students. The ones who do the best in learning about culture, thriving during the program, etc. do NOT spend all their time with hosts.
They do best when they spend the majority of the day immersed in the new culture and then return to live with people from their own culture who can help them process their experience. (Obvously, it is a problem if they spend too little time in the host culture as well. The ideal numbers are 25-75% of their waking hours in the host culture, I believe.)
In a similar vein, we had a short discussion about faith communities and their efforts to be multi-ethnic. Many churches -- and other religious organizations -- try to draw in all the ethnicities represented in their community to a "united" service or program. The leaders (often white Western males) are usually convinced that everyone should move toward each other, adjust, and eventually become completely united in our diversity. But is this the best?
When I lived in South Africa during a turbulent time (my family left Cape Town three days before Mandela was elected), I began to understand unity wasn't the ultimate goal. From universities to the churches to media, separate language and culture specific programs with irregular opportunities for cross-cultural unity were emerging as the best model.
People certainly should come together at times to express their unity. Certainly we should learn to understand each other and cooperate on specific projects/issues/programs to build a better world. Definitely we must move past tolerance towards respect. But for deep experiences -- whether a learning experience like study abroad or a religious worship experience -- they are best done in your mother-tongue and with people like you.
Of course, this assumes the people from your culture are good at processing cross-cultural experiences, helping you focus on principles not minor differences, and don't reinforce stereotypes. Also, keeping "separate but equal" programs is virtually impossible for a government like South Africa -- or India which has thousands of sub-cultures -- to administer fairly. But that is fodder for another blog entry.
If my kids study abroad someday, I might not fight to the death for them to live with a host family. Then again, cross-cultural success is an art (as well as science) and perhaps if the goal is language learning, it would be good.
But the bottom line is that we shouldn't assume complete immersion or integration is always possible or best. Perhaps a salad bowl instead of a melting pot is a healthy model.
They do best when they spend the majority of the day immersed in the new culture and then return to live with people from their own culture who can help them process their experience. (Obvously, it is a problem if they spend too little time in the host culture as well. The ideal numbers are 25-75% of their waking hours in the host culture, I believe.)
In a similar vein, we had a short discussion about faith communities and their efforts to be multi-ethnic. Many churches -- and other religious organizations -- try to draw in all the ethnicities represented in their community to a "united" service or program. The leaders (often white Western males) are usually convinced that everyone should move toward each other, adjust, and eventually become completely united in our diversity. But is this the best?
When I lived in South Africa during a turbulent time (my family left Cape Town three days before Mandela was elected), I began to understand unity wasn't the ultimate goal. From universities to the churches to media, separate language and culture specific programs with irregular opportunities for cross-cultural unity were emerging as the best model.
People certainly should come together at times to express their unity. Certainly we should learn to understand each other and cooperate on specific projects/issues/programs to build a better world. Definitely we must move past tolerance towards respect. But for deep experiences -- whether a learning experience like study abroad or a religious worship experience -- they are best done in your mother-tongue and with people like you.
Of course, this assumes the people from your culture are good at processing cross-cultural experiences, helping you focus on principles not minor differences, and don't reinforce stereotypes. Also, keeping "separate but equal" programs is virtually impossible for a government like South Africa -- or India which has thousands of sub-cultures -- to administer fairly. But that is fodder for another blog entry.
If my kids study abroad someday, I might not fight to the death for them to live with a host family. Then again, cross-cultural success is an art (as well as science) and perhaps if the goal is language learning, it would be good.
But the bottom line is that we shouldn't assume complete immersion or integration is always possible or best. Perhaps a salad bowl instead of a melting pot is a healthy model.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
How India changed me…for good
Yes, living in another culture can change you both permanently and, if processed fully, for the better. After being back for three months and having a little time to reflect, here’s an incomplete list of how six years in India changed me.
Using the rear view mirror less. (Carpe moment!) When driving in India, you generally ignore what’s behind you and focus fully on what is throwing itself across your path. There’s plenty to watch out for (camels, cows, carts). It helps that top speed was about 35 mph, but still. When I’m meeting with you, I’m now better at seizing the moment (not just the day) and focusing on the conversation instead of living in the past or future. Also, if you want to meet and give me two options, I’ll take the soonest appointment possible because I suspect that a strike, civil unrest, flood, power outage, etc. could affect the later appointment. Sooner is more likely to happen…and if not, we can try again later. Similarly, if I see root beer in the store (or anything I’ve been searching for), I’ll buy extras right now. Perhaps your whole stock. You may not have more for a while.
There’s more than one way. When my internet was down at home, I knew a tall passing truck had probably torn down my cable (again). But there was always a USB modem. Or walking to a cyber café. Or parking beside a nearby office with wi-fi and my laptop in hand. There are many ways to get things done, and in India you’re forced to explore and exploit those. Good for people like me who can find routine becoming a rut.
Limited options aren’t bad. The cereal aisle had 8-10 types. There were four kinds of pop (soda). If you could buy cheese, it was normally either mozzarella or cheddar. Limited options can streamline and speed up life. You survive just fine. You save time and energy by not obsessing over the infinite choices.
Pondering the network of relationships. In my culture where the end generally justifies the means and independence is valued, I never learned to forecast the relationship domino effect. I now think more about how an action might help or harm a relationship and – more than that – other associated relationships. Since the majority of the world’s cultures and businesses operate on caste/class/circles of influence, this is a great skill to enhance.
Never too close for comfort. I’m now aware of the huge amount of inhabited but empty buildings sitting around the USA. Most homes are empty during the day. Churches, synagogues, and mosques are only full during periodic meetings. In India, we had friends live with us at times, plenty of visitors, helpers coming and going, and more. Most families have relatives living with them or live-in servants or guards, so the house is always occupied. Places of worship are used for community meetings and more. You could say it feels more crowded, but it now appears to me to be a better use of space and wise stewardship.
I’m sure there are more ways I’ve changed. Give me a few more months or a lifetime to think about it.
Using the rear view mirror less. (Carpe moment!) When driving in India, you generally ignore what’s behind you and focus fully on what is throwing itself across your path. There’s plenty to watch out for (camels, cows, carts). It helps that top speed was about 35 mph, but still. When I’m meeting with you, I’m now better at seizing the moment (not just the day) and focusing on the conversation instead of living in the past or future. Also, if you want to meet and give me two options, I’ll take the soonest appointment possible because I suspect that a strike, civil unrest, flood, power outage, etc. could affect the later appointment. Sooner is more likely to happen…and if not, we can try again later. Similarly, if I see root beer in the store (or anything I’ve been searching for), I’ll buy extras right now. Perhaps your whole stock. You may not have more for a while.
There’s more than one way. When my internet was down at home, I knew a tall passing truck had probably torn down my cable (again). But there was always a USB modem. Or walking to a cyber café. Or parking beside a nearby office with wi-fi and my laptop in hand. There are many ways to get things done, and in India you’re forced to explore and exploit those. Good for people like me who can find routine becoming a rut.
Limited options aren’t bad. The cereal aisle had 8-10 types. There were four kinds of pop (soda). If you could buy cheese, it was normally either mozzarella or cheddar. Limited options can streamline and speed up life. You survive just fine. You save time and energy by not obsessing over the infinite choices.
Pondering the network of relationships. In my culture where the end generally justifies the means and independence is valued, I never learned to forecast the relationship domino effect. I now think more about how an action might help or harm a relationship and – more than that – other associated relationships. Since the majority of the world’s cultures and businesses operate on caste/class/circles of influence, this is a great skill to enhance.
Never too close for comfort. I’m now aware of the huge amount of inhabited but empty buildings sitting around the USA. Most homes are empty during the day. Churches, synagogues, and mosques are only full during periodic meetings. In India, we had friends live with us at times, plenty of visitors, helpers coming and going, and more. Most families have relatives living with them or live-in servants or guards, so the house is always occupied. Places of worship are used for community meetings and more. You could say it feels more crowded, but it now appears to me to be a better use of space and wise stewardship.
I’m sure there are more ways I’ve changed. Give me a few more months or a lifetime to think about it.
Friday, November 11, 2011
On my Reading List: Fall 2011
I enjoyed a similar list by Seth Godin which you should check out as well. I'm still reading about a 50-50 mix of books on Kindle and physical copies, by the way. Wonder if that will shift for me in 2012?! A quick summary of books that I'm reading these days.
Unbroken, by Hillenbrand. I know this historical non-fiction book has been out for a year, but finally read it and it was worth every minute. Incredible story of Olympian, castaway survivor, Japanese World War II camps, forgiveness, and resilience. Great writing, but the story reveals the best and worst of humans, cultural differences, and the ability to transcend suffering.
Transforming Worldviews, by Hiebert. I'm a third of the way through a book that takes a lot of concentration but addresses the critical issue of how people change. Written near the end of the celebrated anthropologist's life, Hiebert is at his best with helpful diagrams and insights. Reminds me of similar insights from Influencer and other books.
The Cultural Intelligence Difference, by Livermore. Enjoyed this book by an academic who makes CQ very practical. Lots of good suggestions for improving CQ as well as an overview of the importance/cost of CQ. Probably the easiest read and most applied of Livermore's four books on the topic.
The 4-Hour Workweek, by Ferriss. Another older book, but I'm always amazed at how uncommon common sense is. But Ferriss has lots of it. He provides practical hints on everything from controlling your email inbox to establishing a small business. Fun reading and gets my brainstorm going. I'm almost done but might re-read parts!
Treasure Island, by Stevenson. This book is only 125 years old, but a great fiction adventure which took my mind off everything stressful. Read it on my Kindle and enjoyed every minute of this classic.
Another Lousy Day in Paradise, by Gierach. When I really need to escape, Gierach's books keep me laughing and inspired by the outdoors and the world of fly fishing. Almost done with this one, and now I just need to get my rods out of storage and wet a line.
Unbroken, by Hillenbrand. I know this historical non-fiction book has been out for a year, but finally read it and it was worth every minute. Incredible story of Olympian, castaway survivor, Japanese World War II camps, forgiveness, and resilience. Great writing, but the story reveals the best and worst of humans, cultural differences, and the ability to transcend suffering.
Transforming Worldviews, by Hiebert. I'm a third of the way through a book that takes a lot of concentration but addresses the critical issue of how people change. Written near the end of the celebrated anthropologist's life, Hiebert is at his best with helpful diagrams and insights. Reminds me of similar insights from Influencer and other books.
The Cultural Intelligence Difference, by Livermore. Enjoyed this book by an academic who makes CQ very practical. Lots of good suggestions for improving CQ as well as an overview of the importance/cost of CQ. Probably the easiest read and most applied of Livermore's four books on the topic.
The 4-Hour Workweek, by Ferriss. Another older book, but I'm always amazed at how uncommon common sense is. But Ferriss has lots of it. He provides practical hints on everything from controlling your email inbox to establishing a small business. Fun reading and gets my brainstorm going. I'm almost done but might re-read parts!
Treasure Island, by Stevenson. This book is only 125 years old, but a great fiction adventure which took my mind off everything stressful. Read it on my Kindle and enjoyed every minute of this classic.
Another Lousy Day in Paradise, by Gierach. When I really need to escape, Gierach's books keep me laughing and inspired by the outdoors and the world of fly fishing. Almost done with this one, and now I just need to get my rods out of storage and wet a line.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
CQ and Money in Higher Education
The month has flown by mainly due to almost a dozen opportunities to speak to groups about my recent work in India. I really enjoyed giving a lecture last night at my alma mater, George Fox University, for a class that I wish they had when I was there! "The Majority World and the West" focuses on the complexities of development, aid, diplomacy, justice, and much more. I spoke on partnerships and associated issues like dependency and accountability. Yes, I did give the 100+ seniors (from across all the undergrad programs) an overview of CQ!
A brief conversation as I was leaving caught my attention. A professor mentioned that the international student population has changed. When I was there, my freshman year roomate was part of a large contingent of Japanese students. However, apparently, the sister schools eventually lost interest in GF due to some miscommunication (i.e. CQ!) issues.
Now there is an agreement with a Chinese organization or institution which has resulted in about 125 Chinese students each semester. What if CQ had been applied by university representatives? The result could have been increased respect, reputation, and certainly more students -- which means more income -- with both Japanese and Chinese students contributing to the great learning environment at GF.
Although it may seem like a "soft skill", CQ clearly has fiscal payoffs.
A brief conversation as I was leaving caught my attention. A professor mentioned that the international student population has changed. When I was there, my freshman year roomate was part of a large contingent of Japanese students. However, apparently, the sister schools eventually lost interest in GF due to some miscommunication (i.e. CQ!) issues.
Now there is an agreement with a Chinese organization or institution which has resulted in about 125 Chinese students each semester. What if CQ had been applied by university representatives? The result could have been increased respect, reputation, and certainly more students -- which means more income -- with both Japanese and Chinese students contributing to the great learning environment at GF.
Although it may seem like a "soft skill", CQ clearly has fiscal payoffs.
Monday, October 03, 2011
CQ more important than IQ?
Is CQ, your cultural quotient or "cultural intelligence", more important than IQ? What about EQ (your emotional intelligence -- which businesses often assess when hiring)? Of course, the answer is, "It depends."
First of all, the field of CQ is only about 12 years old. It started with the Y2K crisis when a Singaporian scientist noticed that IT experts were given identical instructions along with culturally sensitive team building activities...yet they returned home and solved the issue using their own methods. Since the field is new, there are a limited number of studies on what "success" CQ can bring. But it looks promising with consistent results from research in 35 countries and testing of about 25,000 people so far.
It also depends on your type of work. In many careers, with the exception of some highly technical fields where high IQ usually translates into success, CQ along with EQ seems to increase effectiveness.
Besides the type of career, CQ is especially helpful for those with certain responsibilities. It is proven to explain the success -- or failure -- of people who travel "widely but not deeply" across cultures (i.e. business executives, diplomats, relief workers). But it can also help anyone whose job includes virtual teams, outsourcing, global partnerships, or even dealing with diverse sub-cultures within a company.
Unlike IQ which remains mostly the same throughout your life, it's encouraging that CQ can be changed. Which also, in a sense, makes it more important than IQ. Time spent assessing and improving your CQ is not wasted time!
Personally, having studied cross-cultural interactions from a sociological and anthropological viewpoint during my M.A., I enjoy the statistical, factual, measurable aspects of CQ. It is based on scientific understandings of intelligence, has been validated by numerous "refereed" papers in top tier academic journals, and has been rigorously tested in the real world. It's not quite as squishy as other approaches -- to use a non-technical word.
Last week I became a "CQ Certified Facilitator" after some training with the Cultural Intelligence Center, based in the US. This organization is impressive -- they contribute to research and applying CQ to both for- and non-profit contexts. Very interesting and I'm looking forward to learning more.
First of all, the field of CQ is only about 12 years old. It started with the Y2K crisis when a Singaporian scientist noticed that IT experts were given identical instructions along with culturally sensitive team building activities...yet they returned home and solved the issue using their own methods. Since the field is new, there are a limited number of studies on what "success" CQ can bring. But it looks promising with consistent results from research in 35 countries and testing of about 25,000 people so far.
It also depends on your type of work. In many careers, with the exception of some highly technical fields where high IQ usually translates into success, CQ along with EQ seems to increase effectiveness.
Besides the type of career, CQ is especially helpful for those with certain responsibilities. It is proven to explain the success -- or failure -- of people who travel "widely but not deeply" across cultures (i.e. business executives, diplomats, relief workers). But it can also help anyone whose job includes virtual teams, outsourcing, global partnerships, or even dealing with diverse sub-cultures within a company.
Unlike IQ which remains mostly the same throughout your life, it's encouraging that CQ can be changed. Which also, in a sense, makes it more important than IQ. Time spent assessing and improving your CQ is not wasted time!
Personally, having studied cross-cultural interactions from a sociological and anthropological viewpoint during my M.A., I enjoy the statistical, factual, measurable aspects of CQ. It is based on scientific understandings of intelligence, has been validated by numerous "refereed" papers in top tier academic journals, and has been rigorously tested in the real world. It's not quite as squishy as other approaches -- to use a non-technical word.
Last week I became a "CQ Certified Facilitator" after some training with the Cultural Intelligence Center, based in the US. This organization is impressive -- they contribute to research and applying CQ to both for- and non-profit contexts. Very interesting and I'm looking forward to learning more.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Cultural comparisons by a 4 year old
Our oldest son has been making some good observations since we returned to the USA in mid-August. Although most are about behavioral stuff -- and very funny -- I love the insights!
"We haven't bumped into anybody yet." Said while driving with grandma to the mall. Um, yes, personal space and driving are a bit different in India.
"Everything is so shiny here."
"Did you know that you can drink the water from the taps in America?" Instructions given to his younger brother.
"Be careful. There are cockroaches living in there." Said while pointing to the bathtub drain. I assume/hope it isn't true!
"What are the lines on the road for?"
Of course, this is great stuff for a little guy to notice. The challenge for me is that I tend to talk about the same things, but there are so many other levels of culture that deserve consideration and dialogue like beliefs, values, or worldview. Not easy to articulate, but there are hints provided by the behavoral stuff.
"We haven't bumped into anybody yet." Said while driving with grandma to the mall. Um, yes, personal space and driving are a bit different in India.
"Everything is so shiny here."
"Did you know that you can drink the water from the taps in America?" Instructions given to his younger brother.
"Be careful. There are cockroaches living in there." Said while pointing to the bathtub drain. I assume/hope it isn't true!
"What are the lines on the road for?"
Of course, this is great stuff for a little guy to notice. The challenge for me is that I tend to talk about the same things, but there are so many other levels of culture that deserve consideration and dialogue like beliefs, values, or worldview. Not easy to articulate, but there are hints provided by the behavoral stuff.
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