Don’t be a Business Tourist

I am frequently asked what is the difference between “Leadership” and “Global” Leadership. A friend and colleague, Paul Evans, Professor of HR and Organizational Development at INSEAD in Paris, cautioned against being a detached “Business Tourist”….just skimming the surface of global experiences and urging a deeper, mind-changing strategic imperative for doing business in an everchanging and multicultural world…..substantial experiences that “change the mind”. It is immersion into cultural and political norms and economic realities of countries and regions. It is understanding the nuances of cultural thinking and authenticity. It is not trying to be a good Roman when in Rome, but a good authentic citizen who understands and embraces the opportunities to learn that are either developed or born from a passion from within.

Being an effective Global Leader goes beyond the surface experience of traveling to other countries, attending a few meetings and restaurants, and returning after a brief excursion to your host country. It looks at the diversity of cultures as an enabler, not an obstacle to success….a passion for immersion, reading local newspapers, understanding history and values, speaking the language and living in a local setting which builds authenticity, credibility, and trust in business dealings.

Jack Welch, legendary CEO of GE once told a group of investors that “The Jack Welch of the future cannot be like me. I spent my entire career in the United States. Futures presidents of GE will have to be someone who spent time in Mumbai, in Hong Kong, in Buenos Aires and Beijing. We have to send out best and brightest overseas and make sure they have the depth of experiences that will allow them to be the leaders who will make GE flourish in the future.”

What is your take and experience on developing Global Leaders for success?