Home / Cultural Training / Cultural Assessment Tool

Global Readiness Assessment

First Name(Required)

Last Name(Required)

You may find that several options could be chosen. Please choose the one that best suits you.

1. How do you feel about colleagues or managers contacting you about work matters during your personal time (evenings, weekends, holidays)?(Required)

A. I am completely fine with it; work is a continuous part of my life.

B. I accept it as part of the job and respond if necessary.

C. I prefer clear boundaries but understand occasional urgent contact.

D. I find it disruptive and try to establish expectations against it.

E. I get annoyed and believe personal time should be strictly protected.

F. I would ignore messages and respond only during work hours.

2. Your new team avoids direct confrontation, even when there's disagreement. How do you express concern? (Choose the best answer that applies to you.) (Required)

3. Your new team celebrates individual "heroes" and high achievers, even if it sometimes overshadows team effort. What's your view on this?(Required)

A. I believe team effort should always be paramount

B. I find it a bit unbalanced- teamwork is vital

C. I prefer a balance between individual and team recognition

D. I understand- individual excellence drives success

E. I appreciate the recognition for top performers

F. I strive to be one of those celebrated heroes myself

4. You’ve been asked to relocate internationally within 3 months. How prepared do you feel mentally for this kind of transition? (Required)

A. Very prepared- I’m already researching and learning about the culture

B. Prepared- I’ve started thinking through logistics and emotions

C. Somewhat prepared- I’m reaching out to others for advice

D. Slightly unprepared- I’m keeping my emotions to myself for now

E. Unprepared- I’m relying solely on company instructions

F. Very unprepared- I’ve been avoiding thinking about it

5. How comfortable are you working in an environment that prioritizes structure, clear rules, and tries to avoid surprises or risks?(Required)

A. I find such environments too restrictive and prefer more flexibility and ambiguity.

B. I can adapt, but I prefer less rigid settings with room for change.

C. I am generally comfortable, but I also value some degree of flexibility and adaptability.

D. I appreciate the clarity and predictability, though I can handle some ambiguity.

E. I feel most secure and productive in highly structured, rule-bound settings.

F. I strongly prefer environments where risks are minimized, and plans are strictly followed.

6. In your new workplace, people see themselves as part of a close-knit team, and decisions are often made together. How do you work with the group? (Choose the best answer that applies to you.) (Required)

A. I focus on shared goals and teamwork

B. I share my ideas but listen to the group

C. I try to stay neutral and go along with others

D. I keep my distance and avoid close connections

E. I prefer to work alone when I can

F. I ask the team how they like to work together

7. How do you generally view competition in the workplace?(Required)

A. I thrive on intense competition and see it as a motivator for success.

B. I find healthy competition beneficial for driving innovation.

C. I'm indifferent to competition; I focus on my own tasks.

D. I prefer a cooperative environment where collaboration is prioritized.

E. I find intense competition stressful and counterproductive.

F. I avoid competition when possible and prefer to work in harmony with others.

8. Colleagues often use long pauses in conversation. How do you respond? (Choose the best answer that applies to you.) (Required)

A. Let them speak when ready

B. Fill silence with your thoughts

C. Use pauses to reflect

D. Ask a clarifying question

E. Stay silent too

F. Change topics quickly

9. Your new supervisor encourages team members to share opinions and even challenge decisions. How do you respond to this approach?(Required)

A. I share my opinions freely. I have no filter.

B. I actively participate and offer ideas.

C. I offer input respectfully, but filter my responses.

D. I offer input only when specifically asked

E. I hesitate to challenge decisions

F. I defer to the supervisor's judgment

10. When making a big decision like moving to another country, how involved is your family in the process? (Required)

A. Very involved- we research and decide together

B. Involved- I ask for their input and opinions

C. Somewhat involved- I update them as plans develop

D. Slightly involved- I assume they’ll go along with it

E. Not very involved- I handle most of it myself

F. Not involved- I leave it to the company to manage

11. In your new workplace, people often celebrate small victories and encourage fun activities. How do you engage with this atmosphere?(Required)

A. I focus on tasks- fun is secondary

B. I join only if it doesn't disrupt work

C. I observe respectfully but don’t participate much

D. I enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and occasional breaks

E. I actively participate and encourage others

F. I fully embrace the fun and integrate it with work

12. When offered a promotion or a new role that demands significantly more hours or blurs work-life boundaries, how willing are you to accept it?(Required)

A. Very willing – career advancement is my top priority.

B. Willing, if the benefits (financial, professional growth) are substantial.

C. Cautiously willing – I would assess the impact on my personal life first.

D. Reluctant – I highly value my work-life balance.

E. Unwilling – I would prioritize my personal time over career demands.

F. I would only consider it if there were clear limits on the increased hours.

13. In your new country, arriving late to social gatherings is normal. How do you respond? (Choose the best answer that applies to you.) (Required)

A. Arrive fashionably late

B. Ask what time others will come

C. Observe the first few times

D. Show up on time anyway

E. Go early and wait

F. Skip social gatherings altogether

14. How comfortable would you be relocating to a country where modest dress is expected in public and professional settings? (Required)

A. Very comfortable — my current style already fits those expectations

B. Comfortable — I’m open to adapting how I dress

C. Somewhat comfortable — I can adjust when needed

D. Slightly uncomfortable — I prefer more personal expression

E. Uncomfortable — I find it difficult to change how I dress

F. Very uncomfortable — this would strongly affect my decision to relocate

15. The culture values teamwork over individual success. How do you approach recognition? (Choose the best answer that applies to you.) (Required)

A. Acknowledge the group effort

B. Avoid self-praise

C. Share credit with my team publicly

D. Let others take the lead

E. Stay quiet about your part

F. Still highlight your achievements

16. In your host country, people are more open about income and salary. A colleague casually asks how much you make. How do you respond? (Choose the best answer that applies to you.) (Required)

A. I share openly — it’s not a big deal to me

B. I give a general idea without exact numbers

C. I ask why they’re curious

D. I explain that I prefer to keep that private

E. I change the subject politely

F. I feel uncomfortable and avoid answering

17. A manager says the reason why you did so well last quarter was because God was watching out for you. How do you respond? (Choose the best answer that applies to you.) (Required)

A. I feel comfortable listening respectfully, even if I don’t share the belief.

B. I feel curious and comfortable asking what they mean.

C. I feel comfortable using similar phrases if it fits the situation.

D. I feel more comfortable not responding to the comment.

E. I feel comfortable sharing my own beliefs in return.

F. I feel uncomfortable with religious comments and prefer to avoid the topic.

18. How important is saving and investing for the distant future (e.g., retirement, long-term company growth) in your personal and professional financial planning?(Required)

A. Very important – I prioritize long-term financial security and growth.

B. Moderately important – I try to save but also enjoy present spending.

C. Somewhat important – I focus more on immediate financial needs.

D. Not very important – I prefer to enjoy my money now.

E. I find it challenging to plan beyond the immediate future.

F. I typically spend my money before my next paycheck.

19. Your new boss prefers decisions to be made slowly and with consensus. What do you do?(Choose the best answer that applies to you.) (Required)

A. Allow ample time for group input during each meeting.

B. Don’t rush conversations, but keep an eye on time.

C. Wait before offering personal opinions until you've built rapport with the team.

D. Provide thorough background info only.

E. Push gently for progress.

F. Move forward independently.

20. In your new workplace, managers rarely ask for opinions from junior staff. How do you feel about this structure?(Required)

A. I’m fine with it and this is normal. I naturally respect authority.

B. I understand my role and don’t question decisions

C. I focus on my tasks and follow instructions

D. I find it discouraging- I prefer to give input

E. I wait for direction and guidance

F. I try to find ways to share my ideas

21. In your host country, people tend to stay quiet during conflict or disagreement. How do you handle tense situations in this environment? (Required)

A. I easily adapt- I give space and wait before following up

B. I adjust my approach- I ask calm, open-ended questions

C. I tend to hold back- I avoid bringing it up directly

D. I try indirect methods- I prefer writing over speaking

E. I find it challenging- I naturally address things head-on

F. I wait for others to start the conversation before engaging

22. In your new cultural setting, specific professional fields are strongly associated with one gender. How does this influence your career aspirations or choices?(Required)

A. It has no influence; I pursue my aspirations regardless of gender stereotypes.

B. I am aware of it but actively work to break down such stereotypes.

C. I consider it, but it doesn't deter me from my chosen path.

D. I might be slightly hesitant but would still pursue my interests.

E. It would strongly influence my choices, leading me to conform to expectations.

F. I would avoid fields where my gender is not traditionally represented.

23. In your work, how important are traditions and established ways of doing things and how are new ideas or innovations viewed?(Required)

A. Traditions should be highly respected and rarely questioned.

B. Traditions are valued, but I am open to new ideas if they align with long-term goals.

C. There needs to be a balance; new ideas are considered, but past methods often take precedence.

D. New ideas and innovation are generally favored over traditional approaches.

E. Tradition is seen as a barrier to progress and is often disregarded.

F. The focus is always on the newest and most efficient way, regardless of tradition.

24. In your new workplace, people are highly competitive and focused on individual achievement. How do you respond to this environment?(Required)

A. I find it stressful and prefer cooperation

B. I try to foster collaboration and teamwork

C. I focus on my work, but avoid competition

D. I engage in healthy competition to excel

E. I thrive on the challenge and aim to win

F. I push myself to be the best and seek recognition

25. In your new country, people stand and sit closer than you're used to. How at ease are you with limited personal space? (Required)

A. Completely at ease- I naturally adjust to close proximity

B. Mostly at ease- I stay relaxed and try to match their distance

C. Moderately at ease- I adapt gradually over time

D. Slightly uneasy- I may step back or set subtle boundaries

E. Uneasy- I avoid physical closeness when possible

F. Not at ease- I find it very difficult to adjust to close interactions

26. If you observe gender inequality in opportunities or pay in your new workplace, how are you most likely to respond?(Required)

A. I would actively advocate for gender equality and challenge the status quo.

B. I would discreetly inquire about the reasons behind the differences.

C. I would focus on my own performance and try not to get involved.

D. I would support initiatives to promote equality if they are already in place.

E. I would accept it as a cultural norm, even if I disagree personally.

F. I would consider seeking employment elsewhere if the inequality is significant.

27. You’re invited to a Muslim holiday celebration like Eid by a colleague. You’re not familiar with the customs or religious practices. What do you do? (Choose the best answer that applies to you.) (Required)

A. I accept and take time to learn the customs beforehand

B. I ask my colleague what’s expected before attending

C. I go and observe respectfully without participating in religious parts

D. I attend part of the event to show support

E. I kindly decline if I feel unsure or uncomfortable

F. I participate fully without asking or preparing

28. You’re relocating to a country where it rains almost every day. How do you adjust to this kind of climate? (Required)

A. I adapt easily- I invest in gear and adjust my mindset

B. I make changes- I modify my daily routines accordingly

C. I stay flexible- I focus on indoor activities when needed

D. I manage- I try not to complain and go with the flow

E. I struggle a bit- I plan my activities around avoiding rain

F. I find it hard- I often feel frustrated by the weather

29. In your new workplace, achievements are not openly celebrated, even after hard work. How do you respond to this style? (Required)

A. I’m fine with it- I don’t need outward recognition

B. I adapt- I focus on doing a good job quietly

C. I respect it- but I quietly acknowledge wins to myself

D. I find it a bit discouraging- I miss shared appreciation

E. I try to introduce small ways to show recognition

F. I feel disconnected- I value acknowledgment and find this challenging

30. When setting goals, do you tend to focus more on achieving immediate results or working towards distant objectives that require sustained effort?(Required)

A. I always focus on achieving immediate, tangible results.

B. I prefer quick wins and projects with short completion times.

C. I balance short-term achievements with a vision for long-term objectives.

D. I am driven by long-term goals and am patient with the process.

E. I find it difficult to maintain motivation for very distant goals.

F. My goals are fluid and often change based on immediate circumstances.

31. How do you typically express your opinion?(Required)

A. Very directly- I value honest, straightforward communication

B. Mostly directly- I’m okay being clear but tactful

C. It depends- I adapt based on who I’m speaking with

D. Somewhat indirectly- I prefer to read between the lines

E. Indirectly- I use hints or tone more than words

F. Very subtly- I avoid confrontation and prefer harmony

32. When it comes to schedules and time, what is your natural pace? (Required)

A. I’m extremely punctual- I like things to run exactly on time

B. I’m usually on time but flexible when needed

C. I aim for balance- timelines matter but life happens

D. I’m relaxed- I prioritize relationships over the clock

E. I’m more spontaneous- I adjust as the day flows

F. I don’t like strict scheduling- it limits creativity

33. How do you prefer to interact with your manager?(Required)

A. As an equal, focusing on ideas

B. Collaboratively, sharing responsibility

C. Respectfully, but openly

D. Formally, adhering to protocol

E. As a subordinate, expecting direction

F. I only speak when spoken to

34. When working toward a goal, which situation suits you best? (Required)

A. I prefer to work alone and take ownership

B. I like independence but appreciate check-ins

C. I enjoy both solo and team efforts equally

D. I do better when working as part of a team

E. I rely on collaboration for support and ideas

F. I prefer to be guided by the group’s priorities

35. How do you feel when plans are unclear or situations change often? (Required)

A. I’m fine- I improvise easily and stay calm

B. I adapt quickly even if it’s unexpected

C. I like some structure, but I don’t need all the details

D. It is ok to not have a plan, if I have my team backing me up.

E. I get anxious without a plan

F. I need well-defined rules and stability

36. How do you prefer to balance work and personal life? (Required)

A. Strict separation- I don’t mix the two

B. I prefer clear hours, but I’m flexible when needed

C. I like boundaries but enjoy work friendships

D. I’m okay with social overlap in work settings

E. I expect personal matters to come up during work

F. I treat coworkers like extended family

37. You are relocating to a country where gender roles are clearly divided and not treated equally in the workplace or society. How do you respond to this environment? (Required)

A. I adjust- I focus on respecting local norms even if I don’t agree

B. I try to understand the cultural context before judging

C. I maintain my values but navigate respectfully

D. I follow local expectations but look for areas of change

E. I find it difficult to operate in unequal systems

F. I would actively avoid roles or places with unequal gender treatment

38. What kind of environment would you feel most motivated to relocate to? (Required)

A. A fast-paced, modern urban culture

B. A structured, rule-based society

C. A relaxed, relationship-based community

D. A nature-focused, small-town lifestyle

E. A culture rich in traditions and religion

F. A place where individuality is encouraged

39. Your job description is vague and changes frequently. How do you handle it? (Required)

A. It doesn't really bother me

B. I adapt as needed

C. I ask for clarification

D. I get frustrated without structure

E. I seek help organizing tasks

F. I prefer defined expectations to succeed

40. How do you express emotions in a professional setting?(Required)

A. I openly show my emotions, whether I’m excited, frustrated, or upset. People usually know how I’m feeling

B. I express my emotions clearly but with control. I aim to be authentic while staying professional

C. I adapt my emotional tone to match the people or culture I’m in. I mirror others

D. I try to remain composed and neutral, even when there’s disagreement or conflict

E. I rarely show how I’m feeling. I keep my emotions to myself at work

F. I avoid discussing emotions at work entirely. I don’t believe they belong in professional settings

41. When following workplace rules, what’s your natural tendency? (Required)

A. I follow rules strictly- structure matters

B. I follow most rules unless they conflict with logic

C. I follow rules but question unclear ones

D. I adapt based on who’s watching

E. I find ways to be flexible with rules

F. I follow guidelines only if they’re enforced

42. How do you respond when a religion you do not practice plays a visible role in work and public spaces? (Required)

A. I respect it and adapt without issue

B. I ask questions to learn more

C. I observe without engaging

D. I keep my beliefs private

E. I try to find neutral ground

F. I feel uneasy around open religious expression

43. You’re served food that’s unfamiliar or against your usual diet. How do you respond? (Required)

A. I try it out of respect

B. I eat what I can politely

C. I explain dietary needs respectfully

D. I decline with a reason

E. I push the food aside discreetly

F. I avoid eating in unfamiliar settings

44. When faced with a difficult challenge at work, what is your typical approach?(Required)

A. I look for quick solutions to resolve it immediately.

B. I prioritize short-term gains, even if it means sacrificing future benefits.

C. I persevere and work towards a long-term resolution, understanding it may take time.

D. I seek immediate gratification and move on if progress is slow.

E. I focus on traditions and established methods to overcome the challenge.

F. I am willing to adapt and innovate for future success, even if it deviates from past practices.

45. How would you generally characterize your attitude towards authority figures (e.g., managers, leaders)?(Required)

A. I fully respect and follow their decisions

B. I adhere to their guidance without question

C. I view them with deference and esteem

D. I expect them to lead and provide clear instructions

E. I engage them in open dialogue

F. I question them respectfully if I disagree

46. In some cultures, work frequently blends into personal time- including after-hours meals, drinks with colleagues, or social events with clients. How do you feel about this?(Required)

A. I’m fully comfortable- it’s part of professional life

B. I enjoy it occasionally and understand the expectation

C. I’ll participate when needed but prefer boundaries

D. I find it draining and prefer to separate work and personal time

E. I avoid it unless absolutely required

F. I’m uncomfortable and unlikely to participate

47. In a new cultural environment, if the prevailing work or social pace is significantly slower than what you are accustomed to, how easily do you adapt your own pace?(Required)

A. I welcome the change and slow down

B. I adapt but stay productive

C. I shift my schedule slightly

D. I struggle to focus with long pauses

E. I work during breaks to stay ahead

F. I push for a faster pace

48. You're working in a country where last-minute changes are common. How do you adapt? (Required)

A. I stay relaxed and go with it

B. I adjust as needed without stress

C. I ask for clarification

D. I prepare for flexibility

E. It makes me uncomfortable but I can push through.

F. I struggle without a clear plan

49. You're going to a region where feedback is subtle and rarely direct. How do you respond to this style? (Required)

A. I read between the lines easily

B. I watch for non-verbal cues

C. I follow up privately for clarity

D. I prefer clear feedback but adapt

E. I ask for direct responses

F. I feel lost without clear communication

50. How well do you adapt to cultures that are different from your own? (Required)

A. I thrive on cultural differences and enjoy the challenge

B. I embrace new norms with curiosity and effort

C. I take time but eventually find my rhythm

D. I try but sometimes revert to what I know

E. I feel overwhelmed by major differences

F. I prefer environments similar to my home culture

51. How at ease are you with a culture where meetings often start late and run over time?(Required)

A. Very uneasy - I prefer strict schedules

B. Uneasy - it would be a challenge for me

C. Neutral - I can manage but prefer structure

D. Somewhat at ease - I can adapt if needed

E. Mostly at ease - I adjust easily to changes

F. Very at ease - I enjoy the relaxed pace and flow

52. How comfortable are you in situations where you're given minimal instruction and expected to figure things out on your own?(Required)

A. Very uneasy - I need clear guidance to perform

B. Uneasy - I prefer direction but can try

C. Neutral - I can manage either way

D. Somewhat at ease - I enjoy some autonomy

E. Mostly at ease - I work well with minimal direction

F. Very at ease - I thrive in unstructured environments

53. How often do you adjust your language (e.g., avoid slang, idioms, or speak more clearly) when communicating with someone who isn’t fluent in your native language?(Required)

A. I never adjust — I speak as I normally would

B. I rarely adjust unless asked

C. I adjust occasionally, depending on the person

D. I often make small adjustments to be clearer

E. I usually simplify and avoid idioms

F. I always adapt my language to support understanding

54. How many foreign languages have you studied for at least six months (outside of academically-required language classes)?(Required)

A. None

B. One

C. Two

D. Three or more

55. If language classes are not mandatory for your job in your new country, how likely are you to take them?(Required)

A. I wouldn’t enroll in classes at all

B. I’d rely on others to help me communicate

C. I might attend a few casual sessions

D. I’d join classes to learn everyday basics

E. I’d attend regularly to become functional

F. I’d fully commit to becoming fluent through classes

56. How comfortable are you working under a manager of a gender that is not traditionally in leadership roles in the host culture?(Required)

A. Completely comfortable – gender has no bearing on leadership ability.

B. Mostly comfortable – I evaluate based on competence, not gender.

C. Somewhat comfortable – I might initially observe dynamics but would adapt.

D. Slightly uncomfortable – I might be concerned about how others perceive it.

E. Uneasy – I prefer working under leaders of the traditionally dominant gender.

F. Very uneasy – it would be a significant challenge for me to adjust.

57. In your new workplace, decisions have to be made after multiple discussions and several group meetings. How patient are you with this style of decision-making?(Required)

A. Very patient- this aligns with my style of decision-making

B. Patient- I ask for timelines and stay involved

C. Somewhat patient- I try to help by organizing options

D. Impatient- I prefer quick, efficient decisions

E. Flexible- I follow their lead even if it’s slower than I’m used to

F. Disengaged- I step back and let others decide

58. In your ideal workplace, which of the following is most emphasized?(Required)

A. High achievement, recognition, and competitive performance.

B. Quality of life, work-life balance, and nurturing relationships.

C. Individual success and clear performance metrics.

D. Collaboration, consensus-building, and group harmony.

E. A strong focus on winning and being the best.

F. Caring for others and promoting well-being.

59. You’re entering a culture where communication is indirect. Very little is said, but a lot is understood. How do you know someone disagrees with you? (Choose the best answer that applies to you.) (Required)

A. Read body language

B. Wait for follow-up actions

C. Pay attention to tone

D. Ask directly

E. Look for silence or hesitation

F. Assume agreement unless told otherwise

60. What is your primary motivation in your professional life?(Required)

A. Contributing to society's well-being

B. Achieving work-life balance

C. Collaborating with others

D. Career advancement and leadership

E. High earnings and material success

F. Being the best and outperforming competitors

All our experience and knowledge has to go somewhere. Listen to Martin’s Mind™

Martin George is more than the Founder of LTC. He’s a teacher with a Doctorate in Linguistics, who’s lived abroad, speaks at conferences, and is able to hold his own in a conversation on just about any subject. Ready to listen to The 2nd Most interesting Man in the World? Enter Martin’s Mind.