Assessment Tools
The increasing size, complexity, and geographical reach of global firms continually raise the bar for effective global workgroup performance. Fortunately, sophisticated and practical assessment instruments are available to support the evaluation and development of intercultural competence in a global multicultural work force. These tools can be used to select and prepare individuals for international assignments or for work in multicultural groups and for examining the effectiveness and improving the performance of multicultural teams.
However, it can be challenging to determine what tool is most appropriate and effective for particular needs. The many instruments available today serve a variety of purposes. While tools may serve more than one purpose, no tool can accomplish everything human resources and management might wish. The outline below illustrates six types of application in two broad categories. IOR recommends and provides one or more tools for each application.
TOOLS FOR THE SELECTION PROCESS
Designed to assist in selecting employees for international assignments or for management of multicultural workgroups, 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
These tools build knowledge and skills in individuals or
teams preparing for or already working internationally or in multicultural
environments.
They measure and support participant development.
- 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
