by Wordran Naa Wilson
Living and working in Ghana, Japan, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and now Italy has taught me a powerful truth: home is not just a place — it’s a strength we carry inside us. That mindset has shaped the way I lead, connect, and grow businesses across borders.
Why Cultural Intelligence Matters
In an increasingly interconnected economy, cultural fluency is no longer optional for business leaders. The ability to read context, build trust, and adapt leadership styles is essential for creating lasting impact.
Books such as The Culture Map by Erin Meyer underline this point: communication, leadership, and trust differ widely from country to country. Recognizing these nuances allows leaders to work more effectively and build teams that thrive internationally.
Three Strategies for Cross-Border Success
Drawing on experiences from Ghana to Japan to Italy, here are three lessons that help global leaders navigate diverse markets:
Read the room as well as the words
In high-context cultures, much is implied; in low-context ones, everything is explicit. Leaders who listen beyond the literal message gain a competitive edge.
Adjust your leadership approach
Hierarchy is valued in some regions, while others prefer collaboration and equality. Effective leaders pivot to fit local expectations without losing authenticity.
Build trust with purpose
Results matter in some markets; personal rapport counts more in others. Understanding this balance helps you strengthen partnerships and motivate teams.
Turning Diversity into Strategy
Cultural intelligence isn’t just a soft skill — it’s a business strategy. Leaders who cultivate it can scale ventures, unite diverse teams, and position themselves as trusted partners on a global stage.
For professionals reading London Business Magazine: wherever your career takes you, remember that your greatest resource travels with you — the values, insight, and resilience you carry as your home.
