The concept of 'cultural intelligence' (CQ) has gained traction in organizational psychology as a framework for understanding cross-cultural effectiveness. Unlike emotional intelligence, which focuses on intrapersonal and interpersonal skills within a familiar cultural context, CQ specifically addresses the capability to function and manage effectively in culturally diverse settings. Researchers have identified four distinct components of CQ: metacognitive, cognitive, motivational, and behavioral. Metacognitive CQ refers to the mental processes used to acquire and understand cultural knowledge, while cognitive CQ encompasses actual knowledge about norms, practices, and conventions in different cultures. Motivational CQ reflects the drive and interest to adapt to new cultural environments, and behavioral CQ involves the ability to exhibit appropriate verbal and nonverbal actions when interacting with people from different cultures. Studies suggest that high CQ is a better predictor of expatriate job performance than technical skills alone, as it enables individuals to navigate ambiguous cultural cues and build trust across cultural boundaries.
❓ According to the passage, what is the key difference between cultural intelligence and emotional intelligence?
A. Cultural intelligence focuses on intrapersonal skills, while emotional intelligence focuses on interpersonal skills.
B. Cultural intelligence is specifically about functioning in culturally diverse settings, whereas emotional intelligence applies within a familiar cultural context.
C. Cultural intelligence includes cognitive components, but emotional intelligence does not.
D. Cultural intelligence is a better predictor of job performance than technical skills, but emotional intelligence is not.
✅ 正确答案
Cultural intelligence is specifically about functioning in culturally diverse settings, whereas emotional intelligence applies within a familiar cultural context.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first