Cultural Intelligence — What you assume is normal is not universal

Greeting styles, personal space, eye contact, and notions of time vary across cultures. None is correct. Assuming your own norms are universal is the fastest way to miscommunicate when you cross a border. Cultural intelligence is the ability to recognise these differences and adjust without judging.

• In some cultures, direct eye contact signals confidence. In others, it signals disrespect. Both systems are internally consistent.
• When you meet someone from a different background, observe before judging. The behaviour that looks strange may be the norm where they come from.