I previously wrote about:
The Golden Rule: Do unto to others as you would have them do unto you!
It was a reminder about the importance of getting back to the basics.
When the basics are forgotten or taken for granted, relationships suffer and conflict increases!
However, The Golden Rule will only get you so far, at some point you will have to move beyond the basics and upgrade to:
The Platinum Rule: Do unto others as they want done unto them.
Which means it isn’t enough to assume everyone wants to be treated like you, but rather treated like them.
In spite of our similarities, each of us different, and different for lots of reasons; our personality, learning preferences, abilities, gender, race, cultural influences, nationality, and so on. Those differences mean we have diverse needs and expectations in relationship with people.
If we only rely on our own preferences we miss (or ignore) the needs and preferences of others.
When we engage with others both personally and professionally, the objective is to be effective and appropriate.
The ability to sense and interpret difference and understand how to adapt or adjust your behavior in multiple, intercultural, and new situations will increase your ability to be effective and appropriate in communications and interactions with others.
A great way to start is to increase your own understanding of your own preferences, and increase your curiosity about others and how they are different from you.
Once you have a better understanding of yourself and others it will be much easier to consider and practice how to adjust and adapt behavior to be able to treat people as they would like to be treated, and to effectively communicate to others how you would like to be treated.
Its a win win!
Want to know more about cultural differences and intercultural communication?
Check out our upcoming online trainings:
Intercultural Basics: How to talk about culture and difference
Talk about culture with confidence!
When we are finished you will:
- Have the vocabulary needed for cultural conversations
- Be able to discuss the complexity of culture and differences
- Understand the value of intercultural competence in leadership and our everyday life
- Take actions immediately to increase your intercultural competence
- Start effecting change at work, on your team, and in your life
Join us Tuesday, July 23, 2013 @ 10 am PST; 11 am MST; 1 pm EST; 6 pm BST
Trainers Toolbox: The fundamentals of intercultural training
Expand your Trainers Toolbox
Calling all leaders, trainers, youth workers, and all of you who want to add cross cultural activities to your trainings!
Join this Fundamentals Training, and you will soon be able to:
- Train with Confidence and Competence
- Provide a safe and quality experience for your participants
- Engage in meaningful exchanges on intercultural topics
Join us Tuesday, August 20, 2013 @ 10 am PST; 11 am MST; 1 pm EST; 6 pm BST
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