When we are born into a culture, we are born with cultural instincts and we learn what is "normal" within that culture. Often, we are not prepared and equipped with the tools to operate outside of that cultural context. Especially as leaders. We usually end up learning as we step on toes or make mistakes. Though our heart means well, we soon realize the world is much bigger than we were aware of and there is more than one way of seeing the world.
It is important to remember that different does not mean right or wrong. We must be careful not to judge others by cultural standards they are not aware of, as well as labeling them as "difficult" because of a simple misunderstanding or mismatch of perspective. If you are a minister or leader in a multicultural environment it will take more intentionality to connect sometimes but it will be worth it.
Use the following communication model to help and please feel free to contact me for additional coaching or resources regarding multicultural and intercultural ministry.
The BRIDGE Model for Multicultural Communication
B – Build relational trust
R – Recognize cultural communication styles
It is important to remember that different does not mean right or wrong. We must be careful not to judge others by cultural standards they are not aware of, as well as labeling them as "difficult" because of a simple misunderstanding or mismatch of perspective. If you are a minister or leader in a multicultural environment it will take more intentionality to connect sometimes but it will be worth it.
Use the following communication model to help and please feel free to contact me for additional coaching or resources regarding multicultural and intercultural ministry.
The BRIDGE Model for Multicultural Communication
B – Build relational trust
Different cultures trust leaders differently. Some cultures automatically respect a leader with a title and other cultures require evidence or a reason to trust and follow a leader. As leaders, we can not take this personally, nor should we feel entitled to automatic trust from people we lead.
R – Recognize cultural communication styles
Direct vs indirect communication. Take some time to understand how communication works within a cultural context. Don't be quick to use your own culture's norms to label others. Stay curious and keep an open mind instead of resorting to immediate judgement. Be willing to exchange ideas and methods with someone who might communicate differently than you do.
I – Interpret intent carefully
Tone differences often cause misunderstanding. We often want to judge others by outcome and judge ourselves by intention. Try to believe the best about the people you lead and if there is ambiguity or confusion, create a safe place to be able to talk about these things to bring clarity and not judgement.
D – Define expectations clearly
Especially across language barriers. Some expectations are considered normal or "unwritten" within the same culture, but when you are dealing with someone from another culture, they may have no idea that these expectations exist until they feel judged or like they did something wrong. If you experienced this feeling, it is not one you easily forget.
G – Give feedback respectfully
Correct privately, affirm publicly. The goal is never to shame or embarrass the people we lead. Respect can mean different things in different cultural contexts so learn what is respectful and disrespectful within context. This can save a lot of time and energy on misunderstandings.
E – Establish communication rhythms
Regular meetings, updates, and summaries. Having a regular time and method to meet to discuss updates can help to bring everyone together on the same page. Do be mindful that meetings might be conducted differently within different cultures. One may get directly to the point and the other might want to break the ice a little. One is not right at the expense of the other being wrong. Keep an open mind and stay consistent while creating a safe place for feedback and updates.
Not one culture has exclusivity of whether God can move or what is right. Keep an open mind and listen for God's leading. He has wisdom for you in your leadership position. If He could use the Apostle Paul in various cultural settings, He can also use you.
Your Friend in Ministry,
CW
Not one culture has exclusivity of whether God can move or what is right. Keep an open mind and listen for God's leading. He has wisdom for you in your leadership position. If He could use the Apostle Paul in various cultural settings, He can also use you.
Your Friend in Ministry,
CW
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