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Cross-cultural skills and a well-developed global outlook are valued highly in the new global economy. In fact, they are crucial for developing an international career. But a global perspective doesn't appear overnight! True understanding is developed step-by-step, over time, through research and engagement.

Whether you're currently based in North America, or spending time abroad, there are many ways to develop your cross-cultural experience.

If you're in the US or Canada, you can start building that all-important global perspective by getting involved with international clubs on campus, hanging out with international students, learning a new language, taking internationally-focused courses and making an effort to keep up with global news stories online. You can even find ways to connect with students at universities abroad for the purpose of study projects or extra-curricular collaborative art projects. Creativity and curiosity are the keys to your success.

If you're abroad, simply making the effort to step outside your comfort zone and learn about the local culture will build your international skills and global outlook.

Over time, your consistent efforts to expand your perspective and build cross-cultural understanding will accumulate, and eventually you will have developed a higher International IQ!

Related Articles on MyWorldAbroad (for registered users):

Why You Need International Skills

10 Easy Ways for First-year Students to Build International Skills