Assessments

The increasing size and geographic reach of companies continually raises the bar for effective global workgroup performance. Sophisticated and practical assessment tools can be used effectively to support the evaluation and development of intercultural competence in a multicultural work force. These instruments can be used to assist in selecting and preparing individuals for international assignments.  Assessment tools can also help you examine the effectiveness and improve the performance of multicultural teams.  Integrating a cultural assessment tool with cultural training or coaching provides greater depth of exploration and increases commitment among participants.

We realize that it can be challenging to determine what instrument is most appropriate and effective for your company’s particular needs. The many instruments available today serve a variety of objectives. While global assessment tools may serve more than one purpose, no tool can accomplish everything human resources and management might wish.

The outline below illustrates six different applications in two broad categories – selection and development. IOR recommends and provides one or more tools for each application, and we will work with you to determine which tools are most appropriate for your specific situation.

Tools for the Selection Process

Designed to assist in selecting employees for international assignments or for work in multicultural groups, these tools measure:

• Adaptability - adaptability & readiness for international assignments
• Intercultural Competence - attitude, knowledge, and skills for work in multicultural environments

Tools for the Development Process

Using tools as part of talent development provides a focal point for building the knowledge and skills needed by individuals and teams who are working internationally or in a multicultural work environment. Global assessment tools are used to set learning objectives and measure progress in a variety of learning situations including:

• Intercultural Awareness - knowledge of cultural difference and its impact on work environments
• Intercultural Coaching - in preparation for or during multicultural work assignments
• Team Functions - check of team systems, including impact of multicultural membership
• Work Style - awareness of personal style preferences and adaptation tendencies under stress

NOTE: None of these tools are proprietary to IOR Global Services.  IOR continually surveys the market of intercultural assessment instruments to identify the most well-designed and research-supported tools for clearly identified applications. We provide objective recommendations as to the most appropriate tools for our client’s needs and budget.  IOR oversees the administration and interpretation of the assessment tools, and our trainers are certified in multiple tools.