Examining the Cross-Cultural Applications of Assessment Centres

DDI Sponsors 33rd International Congress on Assessment Centre Methods
 
20 September 2006

As global becomes more of a business expectation than an exception, companies need to address cultural distinctions in their business practices. To examine how assessment centre methodology can be best leveraged around the world, Development Dimensions International (DDI), a global human resource consultancy, is sponsoring the 33rd International Congress on Assessment Centre Methods 26-28 September 2006 at The Langham Hotel in London.

 

Ann Howard, Ph.D., Chief Scientist of Development Dimensions International, will kick-off the conference with “50 Years of the Management Progress Study: What We Learned and What We Missed,” comparing today’s assessment centre to the original concept in the Management Progress Study done at AT&T in 1956.

 

The Congress will feature four general sessions and 30 concurrent sessions, featuring experts from around the world on assessment centres, CEO evaluation and 360 tools.

 

“Companies are rapidly expanding into new territories, and with that expansion comes great opportunity to develop leaders to guide these organizations in the new global economy,” said William C. Byham, DDI Founder and CEO.  “This year, the Congress will address how assessment centres cross cultures and how companies can best leverage these practices.”

 

What is an Executive Assessment Centre?

 

Executive assessment centres use a combination of behavioral simulations, interviews, tests and other measurement techniques to give participants the chance to demonstrate their proficiencies in target skills by replicating on-the-job challenges.  Participants experience a realistic “day-in-the-life” of an executive, complete with the associated issues, activities and decisions of a leadership role and they receive feedback about their strengths and needs, along with a suggested development plan.  Assessment centres help companies:

 

·          Determine who to hire and promote

·          Develop stronger leadership skills in current executives and managers

·          Improve bench strength and plan for succession by identifying and developing employees with high leadership potential.

 

 

For more information, call 800-933-4463 or visit the Congress’s Web site at www.assessmentcenters.org.

 

Available for Interviews:  William C. Byham, Ph.D., Chairman and CEO, Development Dimensions International

 

 About DDI

Since 1970, Development Dimensions International, a global human resources consultancy, helps organizations close the gap between today’s talent capability and future talent needs. DDI’s expertise includes designing and implementing selection systems, and identifying and developing front-line to executive leadership talent. With more than 1,000 associates in 75 offices in 26 countries and offices in Stoke Poges. For more information go to http://www.ddiworld.com/aboutddi.