The Global Competencies Inventory (GCI)

The primary method of assessment used by the Kozai Group is the Global Competencies Inventory (GCI). The Global Competencies Inventory Feedback Report presents an assessment of the likelihood to work effectively in an environment where there are cultural norms different from one’s own. The report focuses on three aspects of intercultural adaptability. These three factors are combined to generate an Overall Global Competency Assessment. The three factors are summarized below.

The Perception Management factor examines the way people cognitively approach cultural differences. Cognitive orientations involving perception are important as they form a basis for how we think about others who don’t share our cultural norms. This, in turn, directs our opinions, evaluations, and ultimately our behavior toward those people. This factor assesses people’s tendency to be rigid in their view of cultural differences, their tendency to be judgmental about those differences, and their ability to deal with complexity and uncertainty. This factor also assesses a person’s exposure to, and experience with, other cultures.

The second factor is Relationship Management. Scales in this factor assess our orientation toward the importance of relationships, attentiveness toward others’ interpersonal attributes that help nurture and maintain relationships,  and awareness of our self-concept and the impact our behavior has on others. This factor complements the cognitive-perceptual factor in that it looks specifically at orientations that relate directly to the development and maintenance of cross-cultural, interpersonal relationships. The development of positive relationships in an intercultural environment is a critical aspect of effective performance in working globally. Relationships become a source of information to help us understand the other culture and they also act as a source of social and psychological support.

The final factor of the GCI is Self Management, and this factor assesses our strength of identity and belief in, and tendency to care for, the ’self.’ To be effective in intercultural situations it is critical to have a clear sense of oneself and a clear understanding of one’s fundamental values. To be effective in a global context, we must be able to understand and adapt to the foreign environment and its people, yet be able to maintain a stable sense of self in order to remain mentally and emotionally healthy.

For an idea of some of the organizations who have used the GCI to help globalize their people, click here.

For all queries regarding accessing the online version of the GCI or for delivery of the paper and pencil version of the GCI, please contact our representative at:

email:  info@kozaigroup.com.
phone: +1-503-297-4622
fax: +1-503-297-4695

If you would like to read about the GCI in more detail, please  contact our representative at the email address above.