What is Cultural Intelligence?

Cultural Intelligence (CQ®) is the ability to work effectively with people who think, communicate, and lead differently–across teams, industries, cultures, generations, and perspectives.

Every day, we interact with people who see the world differently than we do. These differences–whether in age, background, profession, nationality, or other factors–can either lead to misunderstandings or become a source of strength.

That is where Cultural Intelligence helps.

Cultural Intelligence (CQ®) goes beyond awareness and sensitivity—it’s a measurable and improvable skill set that helps individuals and teams adapt and collaborate. In today’s globalized world of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and innovation, CQ is critical to setting yourself apart.

CQ gives you a model for diagnosing and responding to complex intercultural situations on the fly. Rather than memorizing facts about different cultures and applying stereotypes, you can use CQ to succeed in any intercultural setting.

How Culturally Intelligent are you?

The CQ® Assessment measures your CQ® and provides insight into both how and why you behave the way you do when working with others! View a sample report.

Assess Your CQ

The 4 Capabilities of Cultural Intelligence CQ Drive—the curiosity and motivation needed to work well with others. CQ Knowledge—understanding the kinds of differences that describe one group versus the next, without resorting to stereotyping specific cultures. CQ Strategy—learning how to plan effectively in light of cultural differences. CQ Action—being able to adapt behavior when the situation requires it.

The four capabilities of CQ®

Most cultural competence programs focus on teaching information about different cultures (e.g., Indians versus Germans; Millennials vs. Boomers). Cultural intelligence take it a step further. Based on more than 20 years of research across more than 100 countries, we know that there are four capabilities that need to be developed to relate to and work effectively with people from different backgrounds.

CQ Drive—the curiosity and motivation needed to work well with others.
CQ Knowledge—understanding the kinds of differences that describe one group versus the next, without resorting to stereotyping specific cultures.
CQ Strategy—learning how to plan effectively in light of cultural differences.
CQ Action—being able to adapt behavior when the situation requires it.

That’s the Power of CQ®.

A culturally intelligent person recognizes, understands, and adapts to these differences, leading to better teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.

Why CQ® Works

Many approaches focus on cultural awareness, but awareness alone doesn’t drive results.
Cultural Intelligence (CQ®) is different because it’s:

A proven framework

Backed by research across 100+ countries and 200,000 individuals.

A measurable skill

Unlike general sensitivity training, CQ® provides actionable strategies you can develop and improve.

Applicable to any setting

From leadership and teamwork to negotiations and decision-making, CQ® helps you succeed in any environment.

What is the Science Behind Cultural Intelligence (CQ®)?

The Cultural Intelligence Center is the only organization whose CQ® Assessment has been rigorously validated and cited in over 1,000 research studies. Our research doesn’t just inform the field—it defines it. That’s why over 1,000 academic and industry studies cite our CQ® model.

Research spanning 100+ countries and 200,000 individuals has shown that CQ® predicts:

View Research

CQ® and Behavioral Preferences

Behavioral Preferences reflect how you naturally approach communication, decision-making, teamwork, and problem-solving. Recognizing your own preferences—and those of others—provides deeper insights into interpersonal dynamics and collaboration. Cultural Intelligence helps you adapt and flex your preferences in diverse situations.

Learn about Behavioral Preferences

Why CQ® Matters

Many people struggle to lead, collaborate, or communicate across differences–not because they lack effort, but because they lack a strategy. That’s where CQ® comes in. It’s the roadmap for turning cultural complexity into your team’s greatest strength.

Research shows that individuals and organizations with high CQ®:

Lead more effectively by adapting their approach to different audiences.
Reduce conflict and improve decision-making by understanding different perspectives.
Drive innovation by tapping into diverse ideas and problem-solving styles.
Build stronger teams by creating an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

Cultural Intelligence isn't just important–it's essential for success in today's world.

Take the first step toward better collaboration, stronger leadership, and real results. Download your free sample assessment report.

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