Third Culture Individuals

A brief text written by Cindy King has interesting implications for the global organization.

A “Third Culture Kid” (TCK) is one who has spent his or her childhood in more than one culture, usually because of the family’s relocation to another country, which consequently alters their world view. President-elect Obama is one such example, as he spent formative years in both the US and Indonesia. King argues experience in a strong international environment eases comprehension of others, regardless of uncodified cultural difference. She argues they are especially flexible in situations where adaptation is the only way to stay afloat.

The global organization can indeed benefit from TCKs, but it is dually important for those without the experience to accrue cultural competency to succeed within diverse teams.