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Psychometric and Personality Tests

Psychometric tests - These tests provide a standardized (i.e. rigorously developed and applied) form of assessment and can measure a wide range of attributes, such as dexterity, literacy, numeracy and specific abilities such as verbal, numerical, abstract, spacial or mechanical reasoning.  Tests, when professionally developed and used, have consistently shown to be a very objective and accurate method of selection. They can also provide high quality specific information on each candidate, and when used in an Assessment Center context they extend the overall picture of a candidate.

Ability tests are usually administered under timed conditions and are completed using paper and pencil, on-screen or online formats.


Personality questionnaires -  Personality questionnaires differ from ability tests in that they look at 'style' rather than ability. In other words, they examine how you typically prefer to do things, such as the way you relate to others or how you approach tasks and solve problems.

Personality characteristics typically cover social confidence, anxiety levels and decision-making styles. They tend not to be timed and there are no right or wrong answers, as they are concerned with how you see yourself.


Hints and Tips for Candidates

Ability Tests - When you are advised you will be completing an ability test as part of a selection process, ask if you will be sent a practice test.

Do yourself justice by practicing the relevant skill areas, e.g. if numerical reasoning - read financial reports in newspapers, practice studying and interpreting information presented in a financial format, and refresh your memory about straightforward calculations such as percentages.

Before you start the test, do not be afraid to ask questions of the administrator if something is not clear. During the test read each question carefully, if you are unsure of the answer make a best guess and move on. Work quickly and as accurately as you can. Most ability tests will be timed, therefore monitor your own time.


Personality Questionnaires - Again, you may want to ask for a practice test.  Most questionnaires are not timed; work through them at a comfortable pace, but do not ponder too long over any one question.

Most questionnaires ask you to consider how you typically behave in a work setting, so follow the instructions and do not think about home or leisure situations. The questionnaire is about how you see yourself now, so think in the present.

Do not try to create an 'unreal' image: be honest about how you see yourself rather than how you would like to be.

It is best practice to provide you with feedback - so ask for it.

There are also a number of good books on the market so, go to the library or local bookshop and browse.

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