Contextual intelligence

The concept of Contextual Intelligence was proposed by Matthew R. Kutz, a leadership researcher. The concept integrates an intuitive and cognitive approach to decision making (Kutz, 2008a). Kutz's definition of contextual intelligence is "the ability to quickly and intuitively recognize and diagnose the dynamic contextual variables inherent in an event or circumstance and results in intentional adjustment of behavior in order to exert appropriate influence in that context" (Kutz, 2008a, p.23). Contextual Intelligence requires that an individual think in and continuously be aware of three dimensions, a concept Kutz calls the "contextual intelligence triad" (2008b, p. 7). This triad requires having an "1) Intuitive grasp of the preferred future, 2) awareness of relevant past events, and 3) acute awareness of present contextual variables" (Kutz, 2008b, p. 7). This concept requires an understanding that "context" consists of several variables. Variables that are internal relative to the individual and external to the individual. Internal contexts are the attitudes, beliefs, and biases the individual themselves bring to the situation and the external variables are all those issues that other people bring, which is then also combined with social, political, and cultural biases, etc. Being contextually intelligent requires one to be aware of the interaction and the environment the combination these variables make. The combination of all these variables is called the "contextual ethos" (Kutz, 2008a).
Contextual Intelligence Skills
Contextually intelligent people will demonstrate 12 unique behaviors or competencies. These competencies are not unique in and of themselves, they are however when practiced and integrated together.
1. Future-minded
2. Influencer
3. Ensures an awareness of mission
4. Socially responsible
5. Cultural sensitivity
6. Multicultural Leadership
7. Diagnoses Context
8. Change agent
9. Effective and constructive use of influence
10. Intentional leadership
11. Critical thinker
12. Consensus builder

Main Menu

See Also

Main Menu