Background
Psychometric tests are ability tests and personality questionnaires designed by psychologists for assessing critical qualities for job success, including problem-solving, communication skills, innovation and creativity.
As psychometric testing becomes more accessible, it is increasingly used by businesses both large and small. It is also commonly deployed as an initial screening tool.
We estimate that nearly half of our candidates undergo some form of testing, either post or pre-interview. Tests typically consist of numerical, verbal and diagrammatic reasoning tests.
So get prepared! Knowing how to succeed in psychometric testing may be the critical step towards landing your dream.
Suggested Approach
Always keep in mind that there are no right or wrong answers – Just be 100% honest.
Psychometric testing is designed to establish your suitability for a role or company. If you don’t “match”, then the outcome is as much for your benefit as it is for the employer.
With this in mind, don’t stress!
Psychometric testing is part of an overall process. Even if you weren’t particularly strong in one area, you may be able to caveat it when your prospective employer talks to one of your referees.
5 Quick Tips For Psychometric Testing
#1 Research the role
Before you take the test, re-read the job description or advertisement. There will be clues as to what attributes the right applicant has (make sure you best fit the description).
#2 Be physically and mentally prepared
Tiredness and stress can adversely affect your scores in the aptitude and intelligence testing. Get plenty of sleep the night before and take ample breaks between the tests.
#3 Manage your time carefully
All testing is timed. In addition to this, psychometric tests are generally designed so that only 1-2% of people finish them. The good news, however, is that you can still score highly even if you don’t complete the test – Easier and harder questions score the same. If you are struggling with a question, simply move on to the next one and return to it later (if you have time).
#4 Prepare
The key to succeeding in psychometric testing is preparation. Research the company you are interviewing for and highlight their key values, company culture and try to identify the type of employee they are searching for.
#5 Practice is key
Try some of the practice tests below to get you comfortable with psychometric testing.
• http://www.practiceaptitudetests.com/numerical-reasoning-test/
• http://www.kent.ac.uk/careers/psychotests.htm
• http://www.psychometricinstitute.com.au/
• http://www.psychpress.com.au/html/free-online-psychometric-tests.php
• http://www.careers.govt.nz/job-hunting/interviews/tests-at-interviews/
