Go to the people: Using emic approaches for cultural understanding

Rapid changes in global society have created frequent interaction across nations in the economic, social, as well as technological spheres and have increased interdependence between cultures (Kiely, 2004; Marquardt & Berger, 2003; World Bank, 2002). Friedman (2006) stated that the world has become flat; globalization after the new millennium has created a flat-world platform where multinational companies, small groups, and individuals can collaborate and compete globally. These contemporary opportunities and challenges have pressed the need for training and development in managing cultural diversity. Today, as the global village continues to shrink, cross-cultural interaction is no longer a fancy trend to latch on to; it is a reality that requires continuous concern.