CQ Basics
What does “CQ” stand for?
Cultural Intelligence
What is culture?
Shared beliefs, values, and behaviors of a group.
What’s the difference between high-context and low-context communication?
High-context = meaning through relationships and nonverbals; Low-context = meaning through words.
Which CQ capability involves adapting your behavior to fit the situation?
CQ Action
True or False: You either have CQ or you don’t.
False – CQ can be developed.
Name the four components of CQ.
Drive, Knowledge, Strategy, Action
What’s the difference between visible and invisible culture?
Visible = food, art, dress; Invisible = values, beliefs, attitudes.
Which cultures rely more on direct communication—high or low context?
Low-context cultures
Give one example of demonstrating high CQ at work.
Adjusting communication style or leadership to match cultural expectations.
True or False: Only people who travel abroad need CQ.
False – CQ is useful anywhere diversity exists.
Which CQ capability involves motivation and curiosity to learn about other cultures?
CQ Drive
What cultural dimension describes how comfortable people are with hierarchy?
Power Distance
Which CQ capability helps you plan and reflect before interacting across cultures?
CQ Strategy
What does a high-CQ leader do when managing a global team?
Shows empathy, flexibility, and respect for diverse perspectives.
What is the Golden Rule?
Treat others as you want to be treated.
Which CQ capability is about adjusting your behavior in different cultural settings?
CQ Action
What type of culture values independence and personal achievement?
Individualistic
Give one way to show respect in a high-context culture.
Listen carefully, avoid interrupting, notice nonverbal cues.
How does CQ help reduce workplace conflict?
By increasing understanding and reducing cultural miscommunication.
What is the Platinum Rule?
Treat others as they want to be treated.
Why does CQ matter in the business?
It helps people collaborate effectively across cultures and avoid misunderstandings.
What’s the difference between monochronic and polychronic time orientation?
Monochronic = one task at a time, punctual; Polychronic = multitasking, flexible.
Why is understanding communication context important?
It prevents misinterpretations and builds trust in cross-cultural situations.
Describe a real-world example of CQ in action.
(Open-ended) e.g., A manager modifies meeting structure for a collectivist team.
Why might the Golden Rule fail in cross-cultural settings?
Because others’ preferences may differ from yours.