Cultural Intelligence Research


Cultural Intelligence (CQ®) turns cultural complexity into a strategic advantage–and the science proves it.

Backed by research in 100+ countries and over 1,000 peer-reviewed studies, CQ® is the only proven framework that predicts performance in today’s fast-changing world.

Researchers have consistently found that those with high CQ® outperform their peers in leadership effectiveness, innovation, cooperation, decision-making, and profitability.

Why CQ® Outperforms: The Measurable Advantage

Organizations and individuals with high CQ® experience:

Stronger leadership and decision-making

Leaders with high CQ® can read the room, adapt their approach, and build alignment across perspectives.

group of people
Higher team performance and collaboration

A culturally intelligent team doesn’t just embrace new ideas—they transform them into action.

Enhanced innovation and creativity

A culturally intelligent team doesn’t just embrace new ideas—they transform them into action.

Greater adaptability and resilience

In uncertain environments, CQ® enables professionals to pivot confidently and problem-solve effectively.

Improved negotiation and trust-building

Whether managing clients or partnerships, high CQ® helps professionals earn trust and close deals faster.

Increased profitability and cost savings

Organizations with high CQ® make fewer costly missteps and optimize their workforce potential.

A Scientifically Validated Measure of Success


The CQ® Assessment isn’t just another personality test—it’s the only scientifically validated tool that measures Cultural Intelligence in a way that predicts real-world performance. Unlike generic personality tests, the CQ® Assessment measures something actionable: your ability to lead, communicate, and adapt across cultures, industries, and teams.

Used by Fortune 500 companies, top universities, and government agencies worldwide, our assessment provides:

  • A clear benchmark of your CQ® strengths and growth areas.
  • Practical insights to help you improve communication, teamwork, and leadership.
  • A data-driven approach to enhancing performance in a global economy.

Whether you’re leading a multinational team or working across departments, understanding your CQ® score is the first step towards stronger, smarter collaboration.

Explore the Research

Unlock Exclusive CQ® Research Insights


Curious why some leaders thrive in complexity—and others fall short? Our CQ® Research Guide reveals what 1,000+ studies say about who adapts, leads, and wins in culturally complex environments.

Inside you’ll discover:

  • How CQ® is measured and validated across industries.
  • The science behind CQ®’s impact on leadership and teamwork.
  • Key findings from over 1,000 peer-reviewed studies.

Get your free copy today and stay ahead in the world of Cultural Intelligence

Advance the Science of
CQ® with Us

We are continuously expanding CQ® research through partnerships with scholars and industry leaders. If you’re interested in conducting academic research using our proprietary CQ® Scales, we’d love to collaborate. Must have a valid .edu email address.

The CQ® Team Packet

Now, more than ever, companies have teams that face challenges due to being multicultural or multigenerational. Teams with Cultural Intelligence can work past these differences and thrive.

We have gathered a collection of Cultural Intelligence team pieces written by social scientist, speaker, author, and CQC co-founder Dr. David Livermore. This manual will help you and your team start their CQ® journeys.

CQ Team Packet

To receive your free download, fill out the form below.

By submitting this form, you agree to receive promotional emails from The Cultural Intelligence Center (you can opt-out at any time). We will send you an email with a link to download the CQ® Team Packet.