New Year, Same Mission: Why Our Approach Matters Now More Than Ever
The new year often brings a hopeful sense of renewal and a chance to set new intentions. But for us, this year feels different. With a new federal administration taking aim at DEI initiatives and the Supreme Court’s ruling against affirmative action, and anti-DEI legislation in some states, the landscape is changing. Organizations are scrambling to respond, with some scaling back their DEI efforts or even going underground.
But not BWP.
We remain steadfast in building a more inclusive and equitable world. Our approach, centered on intercultural competence, is more crucial now than ever. Why? Because it addresses the very challenges that are causing some DEI initiatives to falter.
The Pitfalls of Traditional DEI
While well-intentioned, some DEI initiatives can inadvertently create division and resistance. Lily Zheng supports this observation in their article in the Harvard Business Review. “Many popular (DEI) interventions run the risk of backlash, strong adverse reactions that sustain or even worsen the inequity that practitioners attempt to eliminate.” Critics argue that DEI initiatives can:
- Create division: By focusing on differences in a way that can lead to feelings of blame and resentment.
- Ignore nuance: Oversimplifying complex issues and failing to address the root causes of inequity.
- Use a “shame and blame” approach: Generating defensiveness and resistance rather than genuine change.
While sometimes exaggerated, these criticisms highlight the need for a more nuanced and sophisticated approach to DEI—one that fosters empathy, understanding, and genuine connection across differences. Initiatives must be approached with sensitivity and a deep understanding of human behavior to truly be effective.
The Power of Intercultural Competence
At BWP, we reject the “shame and blame” approach. Instead, we foster a mindset of curiosity, empathy, and growth. Our approach is grounded in the Intercultural Development Continuum (IDC), a research-based framework that helps individuals develop the skills to navigate cultural differences with confidence and grace for themselves and others. The Intercultural Development Inventory is a tool that measures “intercultural competence”—which simply means how skillfully an individual or group shifts perspective and adapts behavior across differences.
We define intercultural competence as the ability to effectively and appropriately communicate and interact with people from different cultural backgrounds. It goes beyond simply being aware of cultural differences; it involves developing the skills to navigate those differences in service of a goal (or mission).
Key Components of Intercultural Competence:
- Self-awareness: Understanding your own cultural identity and biases.
- Cultural humility: Approaching interactions with a sense of openness and a willingness to learn from others.
- Communication skills: Adapting your communication style to different cultural contexts.
- Empathy: Understanding and appreciating the perspectives of others.
- Conflict resolution skills: Navigating disagreements in a way that acknowledges cultural differences.
Benefits of Intercultural Competence
Research has consistently shown that intercultural competence leads to:
- Improved communication and collaboration: Leading to increased productivity and innovation.
- Reduced conflict and prejudice: Creating a more harmonious and inclusive workplace.
- Increased creativity and problem-solving: By leveraging the diverse perspectives of a multicultural workforce.
- Enhanced employee engagement and retention: By fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion.
Developing Intercultural Competence
Cultivating intercultural competence is an ongoing journey that requires commitment, self-reflection, and a willingness to learn. Here are some key steps that our coaches use to guide clients:
- Increase your self-awareness: Reflect on your own cultural identity and biases.
- Seek out diverse perspectives: Engage with people from different backgrounds and actively listen to their experiences.
- Develop your communication skills: Discover your communication style and how to adapt it to different cultural contexts.
- Practice empathy: Embrace your own vulnerability and explore new perspectives as you try to understand other people’s point of view and emotions.
- Embrace lifelong learning: Be curious. Continuously seek out opportunities to expand your cultural knowledge and understanding.
Why BWP’s Approach is More Relevant Than Ever
In a time of increasing polarization and division, the ability to navigate cultural differences with skill and empathy is essential to bridging differences and decreasing polarization. BWP’s approach offers a powerful antidote to DEI initiatives’ challenges today. We provide:
- A positive and empowering framework: Focusing on growth and development rather than shame and blame.
- A broad definition of diversity: Going beyond traditional categories to encompass the full spectrum of human experience that fosters understanding and connection.
- Practical tools and strategies: Equipping individuals and organizations with the skillsets and mindsets to create truly inclusive environments.
Our Commitment to You
As we enter this new year, BWP is leaning into our mission to foster intercultural competence and build a more equitable world. We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality coaching, education, and consulting services. Together we can move beyond the limitations of traditional DEI initiatives and create a truly inclusive world where everyone feels a sense of belonging and can thrive.
Join us on this journey.