This tutorial introduces six dimensions of leadership found across the world some which are highly regarded in all cultures and some which are associated as undesirable in certain countries.

The students will be asked to compare these dimensions across countries and cultures and estimate which are higher than others to gain a sense of understanding for how expectations and prototypes for leadership differ around the world.

The purpose of this exercise is to understand dimensions of leadership considered universal—because they exist in most societies in the world. The point is for students to understand the essence of the concepts of leadership (i.e. ranging from directive to participative styles and often linked to team-orientation) and to learn that differences across cultures need to be understood and respected for managing effective interaction among people. Leading people from different cultures requires sensitivity to others’ assumptions and expectations and demonstrated respect before asking people to adapt and change in a cross-cultural environment.