How to Develop Global Leaders
What does it mean when we say G L O B A L L E A D E R S H I P? 🌎 What exactly does a global leader look like, and what are the skills and capabilities needed to succeed?
Being a leader today is more complex than ever, and leaders working globally certainly have an extra layer of complexity to deal with. Global leaders are those working across timezones and borders, they are managing multicultural teams and organizations, they are entering new markets, and they are carefully balancing the needs of many individuals and stakeholders.
At NB Intercultural, we've developed a model based on 6 Global Leadership Capabilities that would make sense for leaders in any country, in any culture. Within each capability are recommended skills global leaders should possess. [See image below].
Here is a summary of those capabilities and skills:
#1 - Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
Emotional Intelligence refers to the ability to identify and manage your own emotions and the emotions of others. With high EQ comes effective communication and the ability to develop and maintain interpersonal relationships. Components of EQ include self-awareness and empathy. Leaders high in EQ tend to be good at solving problems under pressure and effectively managing conflicts.
#2 - Cultural Intelligence (CQ)
Cultural Intelligence is the ability to relate to and communicate effectively with people from other cultures. Traditionally, this has meant communication across borders (international); however, the term now encompasses cultures within a country. Leaders high in CQ are culturally competent, possess global mindsets, and are able to see things from multiple perspectives. They have the ability to build trust and relationships with people from all over the world. They can negotiate mergers in China, lead employees in Mexico City, and supervise a multicultural team with members from six continents - all at the same time.
#3 - Adaptability Quotient (AQ)
Adaptability Quotient measures how well people (and organizations) respond to uncertainty, new information, and changed circumstances. Leaders must be flexible in their ideas, behaviors, and with their own career. Not only do leaders need to be personally agile, but they also need to be successful change leaders, initiating change in others. They must lead for impact and continuously improve team and organizational performance over time.
#4 - Innovation Quotient (IQ)
Innovation Quotient measures one's capacity to generate, champion, and execute on innovative solutions. Today's leaders must challenge the status quo, ask tough questions, and inspire innovation in others. Leaders high in IQ are not just creative - they use their creativity and curiosity to create new products, services, and processes. Leaders must be comfortable with self-disruption and possess a growth mindset.
#5 - Diversity Quotient (DQ)
Diversity Quotient refers to how one manages inclusion and belonging. Leaders must practice conscious inclusion, creating inclusive environments where differences are recognized and appreciated. Leaders high in DQ understand their own biases and how these impact those around them. They understand that inclusive leadership is needed for people and organizations to thrive. They understand how to integrate social justice with the business and society as a whole. Inclusion is the responsibility of all employees, and leaders can show the way.
#6 - Business Acumen Quotient (BQ)
Business Acumen refers to a myriad of abilities and skills that one can possess. These include execution, collaboration, and financial literacy. Leaders must be able to influence stakeholders and team members and must understand how to build and develop their talent. Leaders with high BQ don't just understand their business; they are able to help others understand the business (and the role they play) as well. They can see the big picture without losing sight of the details. They can cut through complexity and deliver clear results.
Everyone can be a leader.
The word leader is used here to mean anyone in an organization, no matter their role, title, or responsibilities. We all have the ability to lead.
Acquiring and building these capabilities is not easy.
Leaders no doubt have their work cut out for them as the world continues to globalize. We hope this model can be used as a framework for building global leaders around the world.
The Future of Work is GLOBAL. Are you ready?
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Nicole Barile is Founder of NB Intercultural, a full-service intercultural training company preparing organizations for the future of global work. For more information on intercultural training for your leaders, teams, and international assignees, reach out to hello@nicolebarile.com.
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