How culture shapes the way we lead
Power doesn’t look the same everywhere.
You might think power means being outspoken, decisive, or in control. But that’s just one cultural lens.
In Western cultures, power often shows up as assertiveness or individual influence. Think: speaking up, taking charge, showing confidence.
In East Asian cultures, power is more about responsibility and restraint. Leaders earn influence by listening, acting with humility, and thinking about the group.
Both styles are powerful. They just look, and feel, different.
Whether you’re working with an international team, navigating family dynamics, or connecting across cultures, it pays to be aware of the invisible rules around power.
In some cultures, pushing an idea too strongly could backfire. In others, staying too quiet might be seen as being disengaged. What earns trust in one setting might raise eyebrows in another. The best leaders adjust their tone, timing, and approach to suit the room.
You don’t need to master every cultural code. But curiosity, flexibility, and humility go a long way.
Notice how others give and receive influence
When in doubt, ask rather than assume
Lead with respect — it translates everywhere
Power isn’t one-size-fits-all. The more you tune into the culture around you, the more influence you’ll carry.
This article was informed by research about power across cultures by Zhong et al., 2006.