ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the backgrounds of cross-cultural coaches, the qualities of cross-cultural coaches and the importance of reflection upon one's own cultural background and learning from mistakes. Geographical mobility and international working remits appeared to contribute very strongly towards a cross-cultural orientation. Working multicultural groups or foreign corporations contributed to a flexible approach towards working with different mindsets and a willingness to examine what is imbued within the culture. Several participants spoke of socialising with all ages, colours, nationalities, religions, sexual orientations, political allegiances, and professional backgrounds. This is more than enjoying social mobility; this breed of person sometimes finds it hard to function in a monocultural environment. Key qualities of a cross-cultural coach appear to be challenging own assumptions; remaining open; a large capacity for change; and tolerance for ambiguity, along with the ability to hold paradoxical situations in mind. It is incumbent upon the coach to explore their cultural self-awareness to avoid transference into the coaching relationship.
