Integrating cross cultural sensitivity in the workplace: developing globally proficient professionals

Cross cultural sensitivity is an increasingly desired and indispensable attribute of the 21st century where globalisation and labour market mobility demand interactions with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Cross cultural sensitivity [CCS] is defined in this research as the ability to apply appropriate knowledge and skills to understand the cultural beliefs, attitudes, values and behaviours of oneself and those of other cultures. The objective of this paper is to develop and expand sensitivity within the workforce to cultural diversity using a new work skills framework based on cross cultural sensitivity, preparing the next generation of global professionals. The approach is grounded in literature around the concept of cultural intelligence [CQ] and cross cultural understanding to identify cognitive, metacognitive, motivational and behavioural attributes (Earley & Ang, 2003) further contributing to cultural sensitivity in the workforce. These attributes are incorporated into the proposed cross culturally sensitive work skills framework with reference to six generic work skills [initiative, technology, lifelong learning, self-management, problem solving and communication]identified previously in a well-established and validated teaching and learning framework, the Work Skills Development Framework (Bandaranaike & Willison, 2009). This innovative theoretical framework based on cross cultural sensitivity, while enabling attitudinal and behavioural changes to ameliorate cultural disparities at all levels in the workplace, is primarily intended for use as a teaching and learning assessment tool with Cooperative Work Integrated Education (CWIE) students. In the long term the work environment will significantly improve and help develop globally proficient professionals for the future