Intercultural Communication - Intercultural Communication Competence

Intercultural Communication Competence

Intercultural communication is competent when it accomplishes the objectives in a manner that is appropriate to the context and relationship. Intercultural communication thus needs to bridge the dichotomy between appropriateness and effectiveness:

• Appropriateness. Valued rules, norms, and expectations of the relationship are not violated significantly.
• Effectiveness. Valued goals or rewards (relative to costs and alternatives) are accomplished.

Various publications list necessary competencies for intercultural communication. Twelve affective, behavioural and cognitive competencies have been identified:

• Self-awareness. Is conscious about one’s self (the way one looks) and about one’s reputation elsewhere.
• Appropriateness. Has knowledge of the socially appropriate communicative behaviour.
• Self-confidence. Holds a realistic and positive confidence in own judgements, abilities and powers.
• Effectiveness. Is able to bring about an effect.
• Motivation for success. Has a strong orientation towards pragmatism and useful action.
• Changing perspectives. Tries to understand actions and reactions of others from their point of view.
• Empathy. Shows interest in others and shares emotions.
• Open-mindedness. Is open towards new ideas and experiences; functions effectively with people of other world views.
• Communication ability. Fully appreciates what others are saying and thinks consequentially prior to answering.
• Tolerance. Is free from bigotry and prejudice, accepts and advocates diversity.
• Sensitivity. Is sensitive to the importance of differences and to the point of view of other people.
• Flexibility. Having a type of mental elasticity allowing to be part of and yet apart from another milieu.

A targeted development of these key competencies in intercultural communication requires a thorough appraisal to identify individual strengths and weaknesses. Diagnostic frameworks like the ICCA™ (Intercultural Communication and Collaboration Appraisal) study subjective viewpoints and focus awareness on certain behaviours and attitudes.