The modern workplace brings together people whose communication patterns, conflict norms, expectations of professionalism, and approaches to collaboration are shaped by many cultural influences—including family upbringing, community norms, and lived experience. When these differences go unnamed, people often misinterpret behavior, assume their own habits are “standard,” or unintentionally make it harder for others to contribute fully.

Cultural intelligence (CQ) is the ability to recognize that norms differ, pause before interpreting behavior, and adjust your approach so conversations and collaboration are clearer and more respectful. CQ is not about learning everything about every culture—it is about noticing your own defaults, understanding that familiar habits are not universal, and practicing small shifts that reduce miscommunication. This module introduces CQ as a foundational skill that helps people work better together across differences of all kinds.

What Will I Learn?

• Understand what cultural intelligence (CQ) is and why it strengthens everyday interactions at work.
• Recognize how culture shapes communication, conflict, emotional expression, and professionalism.
• Identify when you may be interpreting someone’s behavior through your own habits or expectations.
• Notice the difference between personal preference and genuine work needs or expectations.
• Interrupt assumptions by asking, “What else could this mean?”