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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 Perception Management Factor examines the way a person cognitively approaches 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 a person's orientation toward the importance of relationships; attentiveness toward others' interpersonal attributes that help nurture and maintain relationships; and awareness of one's self and the impact one 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 an individual understand the other culture and they may also be a source of social support.

The final factor of the GCI is Self Management, and this factor takes into account one's 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, a person must be able to understand, adapt and change to the appropriate parts of the foreign environment yet have a stable sense of self in order to remain mentally and emotionally healthy.

The Global Competencies Inventory (GCI) is available in English online. A paper and pencil version of the GCI is available in English, Japanese, and Spanish as well. For all queries regarding accessing the online version or for delivery of the paper and pencil version, please contact us at:

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