Global Leadership Practices: Competencies for Navigating in a Complex World, Second Edition

30 May 2024 | Curiously Intercultural, Media Views

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Bettina Gehrke, along with her contributors and collaborators, has crafted an exceptional resource that demonstrates the application of cutting-edge intercultural research. Their handbook serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding and implementing the essentials of effective global leadership worldwide.

How is this achieved? Firstly, the editors are cognizant of and incorporate the “turns” in contemporary scientific research, applying them practically to what cognitive psychology reveals about human nature and behavior. This involves complex ideas about our origins, our neurological processes, and our interactions, helping us recognize both our similarities and differences across various global contexts. This approach moves beyond traditional domination of essentialist views of cultural values and behaviors, opting instead for a context-specific examination tailored to the involved parties.

Secondly, the authors tackle the crucial task of decolonizing cultural research, both theoretically and in practice, which is vital for addressing global leadership challenges. Despite widespread calls for decolonization, its practical implementation often lags behind; this book, however, showcases real-world applications. It features in-depth case studies from Asia and the Global South, illustrating how local and international cultures interact, exchange ideas, and work towards reconciling their perspectives in real-time contexts. We learn from both the successes and favors described in the case studies.

Thirdly, the book engages readers by making them active participants. It offers clear objectives, reflective prompts, discussion points, language management tips, and illustrated models, enriched with an extensive bibliography. Key quotations are prominently cited rather than relegated to footnotes, enhancing their impact.

The structure of the book encourages readers to reflect on their learning journey, emphasizing the development of self-awareness, identity, and the practical realities of leadership. It highlights how the communication dynamics of the digital age influence and benefit traditional print media.

As a reader, I appreciate the profound impact this book offers for both training professionals and their organizations. It is more than just a text to read; it is a continual educational resource that encourages revisitation to expand and refine one’s professional perspective and practice.

Reviewed by Dr. George F. Simons, diversophy.com

Title: Competencies for Navigating in a Complex World, Second Edition 

Edite by: Bettina Gehrke, Marie-Thérèse Claes, Daniela Pauknerová, Ina Aust, and Roger-Matthew Bell Lambert.

Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd, 2nd edition

Publication Date: April 2024

ISBN-10 : ‎ 1035308096

ISBN-13: 978-1035308095

 

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