DDI
GlobalFounded 1970

Development Dimensions International

Leadership simulations & Targeted Selection, used by Fortune 500 companies

1970
Founded
26
Countries
2,000+
Clients

DDI is a global leadership consulting firm best known for Targeted Selection (a structured behavioural interview system) and leadership simulations used in assessment centres. DDI's tools are used by over 2,000 organisations globally for leadership selection and development.

Test Formats & Structure

Targeted Selection Interview (STAR)

Hard
45-60 min
6-8 Q
Structured behavioural interview with STAR probing

Leadership Simulation (In-Tray/E-Tray)

Hard
60-90 min
N/A Q
Realistic business scenario requiring prioritisation and decision-making

Group Exercise (Leaderless Discussion)

Hard
45-60 min
N/A Q
Group problem-solving without assigned roles

Interaction Simulation (Role Play)

Hard
20-30 min
N/A Q
One-on-one role play with assessor playing employee/customer

Sample Questions

Example questions in the style of this publisher's assessments.

Behavioural Interview

Targeted Selection: 'Tell me about a time when you had to influence someone who did not report to you to achieve a business objective. What was the situation and what did you do?'

Use STAR: Situation (brief), Task (your goal), Action (specific influence tactics, building rapport, finding mutual benefit, using logic), Result (outcome achieved). DDI interviewers will probe deeply with follow-up questions.

Companies Using DDI (Development Dimensions International)

Procter & Gamble
Caterpillar
Lockheed Martin
Marriott
Kellogg's
Heinz
3M

Expert Preparation Tips

1

DDI's Targeted Selection is the most rigorous behavioural interview system. Prepare 8-10 detailed STAR stories.

2

Each STAR story should be 2-3 minutes: 10% situation, 20% task, 60% action, 10% result.

3

Interviewers will probe deeply. 'What specifically did you say?', 'What was your thought process?'.

4

Leadership simulations test prioritisation. Focus on high-impact, time-sensitive items first.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DDI's Targeted Selection?

Targeted Selection is a structured behavioural interview system using STAR questions to assess specific competencies. Interviewers are trained to probe deeply and look for evidence of past behaviour as a predictor of future performance.

What is a DDI leadership simulation?

DDI leadership simulations are realistic business scenarios where candidates must make decisions, prioritise tasks, and respond to challenges. Common formats include in-tray exercises, role plays, and group discussions.

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