Cross Cultural Issues in Business Communication : An Analysis of Finland Based Business Professionals’ Cultural Intelligence in the Indian Environment

Abstract

Businesses across the world are continuously expanding their boundaries in different countries. These businesses require talents who are skilled at cross-cultural communications. Cultural intelligence allows professionals to adapt, learn and be creative in a foreign environment. To assess the individuals’ cultural intelligence capabilities various theories are available. One of the most popular theories to measure cultural intelligence capabilities is the CQ theory. CQ theory provides a four-factor model including Motivational CQ, Cognitive CQ, Metacognitive CQ, and Behavioral CQ. These dimensions facilitate an individual to utilize their cultural intelligence in multicultural settings.

This research focuses on the understanding of cross-cultural business interactions of Finland-based professionals in the Indian business environment. Hofstede’s cultural dimensions provided insight into cultural differences between Finland and India. To make the study business professional centric and identify individuals’ cultural knowledge, the study used 20 item scale interview questions. Also, 15 participants were interviewed who are based in Finland but interact with their counterparts in India. It is evident from the study that cultural differences between Finland and India are huge but cultural intelligence can play an important role in mitigating cultural differences. Cultural intelligence can be improved through training and experience.

Referring to the research, CQ theory has its limitations. It is not entirely possible to assess an individual’s cultural intelligence using a four-factor model of CQ theory. This research proposes alternative ways of measuring individuals' cultural intelligence and comparing it with CQ theory. Also, CQ theory has a scope of expansion if used on a larger scale.