Intercultural Competencies Needed for Evolving Media Professions: Educating the Next Generation of Globally Minded Communicators

This mixed-methods study was designed to determine which global competencies are most sought after in college students and recent graduates who are applying for internships and jobs that are international in scope. A survey of 40 mostly U.S.-based global communicators in strategic communication and journalism and subsequent in-depth interviews revealed that respect for other cultures, listening/observation skills, and understanding others’ worldviews were highly valued. It was also recommended that college graduates have experience traveling abroad and a global network of contacts to enhance their job prospects. Implications for updating college curricula and extracurricular opportunities are explored.