CQ: Cultural Intelligence

IQ is intelligence. EQ is emotion. CQ is Culture. It is the ability to cross divides and understand values different from your own.

Time and Punctuality In Germany, 9:00 means 8:55. In Brazil, 9:00 might mean 9:30. Neither is "wrong"; they are different perceptions of time. Judging one as "lazy" or "uptight" is low CQ.

Hierarchy and Respect In Asia, you respect the boss and wait for permission. In Scandinavia, you call the CEO by their first name and challenge their ideas. Mixing these styles causes conflict.

Direct vs. Indirect Americans say "No." Japanese might say "That is difficult." You must learn to read between the lines.