As a cross-cultural communication strategist, I’ve spent years guiding others in navigating the complexities of global communication. But this journey wasn’t always straightforward. It was shaped by a series of experiences that taught me the true power of cultural curiosity. From my early days in Japan to becoming the first Japanese CSP® recipient from the National Speakers Association, cultural curiosity has been the driving force behind my success and growth.

Growing up in Japan, I was surrounded by a rich cultural heritage, yet I always felt a pull toward understanding the world beyond my borders. This curiosity led me to pursue a career at ITOCHU International in New York, where I was immediately thrust into a global environment. The fast-paced, multicultural workplace was a stark contrast to what I was used to, and I quickly realized that my success depended not just on my skills, but on my ability to understand and adapt to different cultural perspectives.

One of my earliest lessons in cultural curiosity came during a high-stakes negotiation with a Mexican Steel Manufacturer client. I approached the meeting with my usual Japanese communication style—polite, reserved, and indirect. However, I soon noticed that my approach was causing confusion and frustration. It was a turning point for me. I realized that to succeed in this environment, I needed to do more than just translate words—I needed to translate meaning and intent across cultural lines.

This experience sparked a lifelong commitment to cultural curiosity. It became the cornerstone of my approach as I advanced in my career, from earning my MBA at New York University to interning at McKinsey & Company to working with number of Global Companies through my own businesses, ASPIRE Intelligence and Breathrough Speaking. Whether I was leading a strategy session for Prudential or conducting a workshop for Toyota, I always prioritized understanding the cultural contexts of my audience.

As I transitioned into my roles at ASPIRE Intelligence and Breakthrough Speaking, this curiosity continued to drive me. I authored books that bridged cultural gaps, like 20Ji Ni Sogiotose in Japan and my newest book! Uncover Your Message in the U.S. My writing and speaking engagements were all centered around one core idea: the importance of tailoring your message to resonate with diverse audiences.

Cultural curiosity didn’t just shape my professional life; it had a profound impact on my personal life as well. As someone who frequently travels between Japan and New York, I’ve had to navigate the complexities of balancing two distinct cultural identities. This curiosity helped me become more adaptable, resilient, and empathetic—not just in my career, but in my life as a mother, a cancer survivor, and even as a competitive ballroom Latin dancer.

I’ve learned that cultural curiosity is not just about understanding others; it’s about understanding yourself within the context of a broader world. It’s about recognizing that your way of seeing things is just one of many, and that there’s immense value in exploring and embracing those other perspectives.

How You Can Cultivate Cultural Curiosity

From my experiences, I’ve learned a few key strategies that can help anyone develop cultural curiosity:

• Ask Questions with Intent: Go beyond surface-level inquiries. Ask questions that invite others to share their deeper cultural insights and experiences.

• Listen Beyond Words: Pay attention to what’s not being said—non-verbal cues, tone, and context. These often carry as much weight as the words themselves.

• Reflect on Your Own Biases: Regularly consider how your own cultural background influences your perceptions and interactions. This self-awareness is crucial for true understanding.

• Seek Diverse Experiences: Immerse yourself in different cultures whenever possible. Whether it’s through travel, literature, or even local cultural events, every new experience broadens your perspective.

• Practice Empathy: Try to see the world through the eyes of others. Consider the challenges they may face when communicating with someone from your cultural background.

Cultural curiosity has been the key to my success as a cross-cultural strategist, author, and speaker. It’s allowed me to build bridges between diverse groups, foster innovation, and create more meaningful connections—both professionally and personally.

So, as you navigate your own cross-cultural interactions, remember that every conversation is an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect. Embrace cultural curiosity, and you’ll be amazed at the doors it opens for you.

If you’re inspired to take your cross-cultural communication skills to the next level, I encourage you to explore my latest book, Uncover Your Message: The 3-Step Process for Presenting Your Ideas Effectively and Persuasively, Globally and Locally. 

In this book, I share a step-by-step process to improve your communication across cultures, with practical insights drawn from my 25 years of international consulting experience. Whether you’re leading a diverse team, presenting to a global audience, or navigating 1:1 interactions, this book offers the tools you need to succeed in today’s global business environment. 

Get your copy here and start mastering the art of cross-cultural communication today!