The concept of 'cultural intelligence' (CQ) has gained prominence in organizational psychology as a framework for understanding cross-cultural effectiveness. Unlike emotional intelligence, which focuses on intrapersonal and interpersonal skills within a familiar context, CQ specifically addresses the capability to function effectively in culturally diverse settings. Researchers have identified four distinct dimensions of CQ: metacognitive, cognitive, motivational, and behavioral. The metacognitive dimension involves conscious awareness of cultural assumptions during interactions, while the cognitive dimension encompasses knowledge of norms and practices across cultures. Motivational CQ reflects an individual's interest and confidence in adapting to different cultural environments, and behavioral CQ refers to the ability to exhibit appropriate verbal and non-verbal actions. Studies suggest that high CQ is a better predictor of expatriate job performance than technical expertise alone, because it enables individuals to navigate ambiguous cultural cues and build trust with local counterparts. However, critics argue that CQ may oversimplify the dynamic and fluid nature of culture, which is constantly shaped by global interactions and power imbalances.