Multicultural or Intercultural? The difference and why it matters.

Navigating cultural differences is crucial in our interconnected world. As businesses expand globally and Australia becomes more (and more!) diverse, understanding multicultural and intercultural communication can make all the difference. While often used interchangeably, these terms represent distinct approaches to human interaction, each with unique implications.

Below is a high-level breakdown

• In multicultural communities, we live alongside each other.
• In cross-cultural communities, there is some reaching across boundaries.
• In intercultural communities, there is comprehensive mutuality, reciprocity, and equality.?

Multicultural Communication - Celebrating Diversity

Multicultural communication acknowledges and celebrates the coexistence of multiple cultures within a given environment. It’s about recognising each culture's distinctiveness and respecting these differences.?

Individuals maintain their cultural identities in a multicultural setting while participating in the larger community. This creates an environment of inclusivity and respect, viewing diversity as a strength. However, it can also lead to silos where different cultural groups coexist without significant interaction or understanding.

Research supports the benefits of multicultural environments. A study by Richard Crisp and Miles Hewstone found that exposure to multiple cultures can enhance creativity and problem-solving abilities, encouraging individuals to think outside their cultural norms. Additionally, a report by 麦肯锡 highlights that companies with diverse workforces are 33% more likely to outperform their less diverse peers.

Intercultural Communication - Building Bridges

Intercultural communication, on the other hand, goes a step further. It’s about actively engaging with and understanding different cultures through meaningful interactions. This approach focuses on bridging gaps between cultures, promoting mutual understanding, and creating a more integrated and cohesive environment.

Intercultural communication requires individuals to be open-minded, empathetic, and willing to adapt their behaviours and perspectives. It’s about finding common ground and building relationships that transcend cultural differences. This approach enhances personal interactions and improves teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving within diverse groups.

Research by Stella Ting-Toomey emphasises the importance of intercultural communication competence, which involves the ability to communicate effectively and appropriately in intercultural situations. Her work shows that individuals with high intercultural communication competence better manage cultural conflicts and build strong, collaborative relationships.

The Human Element - Why It Matters

At the heart of multicultural and intercultural communication is the recognition of our shared humanity. This understanding can lead to more effective collaboration, stronger client relationships, and a more inclusive culture.

• Enhancing Collaboration - When we understand and appreciate each other’s cultural backgrounds, they can work together more effectively. This leads to improved communication, fewer misunderstandings, and a more harmonious environment.
• Building Trust - Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship. Intercultural communication builds trust through empathy, respect, and mutual understanding.
• Creating Innovation - Diversity brings a wealth of perspectives and ideas. Intercultural communication encourages sharing these ideas, leading to more innovative solutions and creative problem-solving. A Harvard Business Review study found that companies with higher levels of diversity were 45% more likely to report growth in market share.
• Improving Relationships - Understanding the cultural nuances of stakeholders and the community leads to more effective communication and stronger relationships. It demonstrates respect and a willingness to go the extra mile, setting an organisation apart from competitors.

Keeping humanity at the core

Navigating cultural differences is a necessity in today's globalised world. Businesses and individuals can create more inclusive, cohesive, and successful environments by understanding the distinctions between multicultural and intercultural communication and focusing on human-to-human interactions.

Whether you’re a leader aiming to create a more inclusive workplace or an individual seeking to broaden your horizons, embracing a human-centred mindset and honing your intercultural communication skills can pave the way for a brighter, more connected future.

A final thought.

Embracing multiculturalism can allow us to appreciate each other, interculturalism can bring us all together, but humanity can connect us through differences - Ash Chand

About the Author

Ash Chand is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, with extensive experience in multicultural and intercultural communication. As the Head of Sales at The LOTE Agency , he promotes understanding and collaboration across cultural communities, working with organisations to improve customer, employee and human experiences.