Intercultural communication competence in retrospect: Who would have guessed?

The formative work on intercultural communication competence reflected a wide array of definitions and methodologies. In the years since it was introduced the impact concept has been substantial. First, the ICC conceptualization provided a linkage between interpersonal communication and intercultural communication. Second, the ICC concept contributed to the shift away from linear, information-transmission views of communication, in favor of transactional, constructivist perspectives on the process—perspectives that emphasized meaning and interpretational dynamics, rather than solely messages and media. Third, attention to ICC made it clear that intercultural knowledge and good intentions—without the appropriate behaviors—often lead to other-than-intended outcomes. Conversely, a culturally defined skill set, without more general knowledge, may result in outcomes that are only appropriate in particular cultural settings. Fourth, while “intercultural” began as a somewhat limited concept referring to interactions between individuals from differing national backgrounds, the concept of “culture” gradually expanded to regional, ethnic, organizational, occupational, and relational entities. Scholars of the day may have failed then to recognize the importance of the concept. Nonetheless, the competence concept envisioned in our earliest work has been influential in into writings in many areas, including relationships, organizations, healthcare, leadership and other areas (Ruben, 2006, 2014). One can only imagine how the concepts of intercultural, communication, and competence will evolve and influence the shape of future scholarship and practice within communication and other social science endeavors in the years ahead.