#95 - Why foreign languages are the key to successful leadership - with Michael Shangkuan

We are all familiar with the terms IQ and EQ.


CQ on the other hand may be a new concept.


It refers to cultural intelligence - in other words, the ability
to cross bridges and work effectively in culturally diverse
situations. In particular for leaders working in international
teams, cultural awareness and understanding is a key factor for
success.


Someone who knows this all too well is polyglot and former
investment banker Michael Shangkuan. As the CEO of language
learning platform Lingoda, he’s on a mission to break down
cultural barriers. His belief: that CQ and foreign languages go
hand in hand.


Michael became CEO of the company in 2018. His team of 20 at the
time has now grown to more than 140 - representing 42
nationalities - and has helped tens of thousands of people to not
only learn, but to truly master a foreign language.


Want to hear more about how this international team helps to make
languages more accessible? Check out the latest episode of Speak
Like a CEO where Oliver and Lena will be chatting to Michael
about:


Why cultural understanding is crucial for meaningful
communication


Building a management style as an externally recruited CEO


The secret to outstanding change communication within a business


How COVID has accelerated innovation in the ed-tech sector





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