Taking online recruitment tests: what to expect
Psychometric tests are becoming a standard recruitment tool
If you only do one thing...
Find out what tests you'll be asked to complete and make sure that the questions you practice are similar.
If you apply for a job online, you may find yourself faced with an attribute, ability, numeric or personality test. These tests are fast becoming a standard tool for recruiters who use them to identify suitable candidates for interview. You're likely to be asked to take a test if you meet the basic criteria for a job.
Topics in this section:
Types of psychometric tests
There are two main types of test:
- Personality questionnaires. These are designed to assess your attitude and approach to work. Personality tests can show if you're a good match for a particular company - if you don't make it through to the next stage it probably means the job or the organisation wasn't right for you.
- Numerical and verbal reasoning tests. Good numeracy and communications skills are vital in the workplace, so it's not surprising that employers choose to test these skills early on in the recruitment process.
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Preparing for psychometric tests
Although you can't swot up for personality or ability tests, you're likely to do better if you're prepared. Finding similar tests to the ones you'll be taking and practising them will help you know what to expect.
Taking psychometric tests
Verbal and numerical reasoning tests usually have to be completed at one sitting and within a given time. They are also refreshed frequently to prevent jobseekers getting a sneak preview from their friends. It's hard to cheat in online tests. Lying on a personality questionnaire will only confuse the recruiter and won't work in your favour ??? remember, the test is about finding out if the organisation is right for you as well as whether you're right for it.
"It's important to get a good night's sleep before doing a test. If you're stressed or overtired you won't perform to your maximum ability. Practising tests won't make you better at them, but it will help you understand how different tests work. Personality tests have inbuilt mechanisms to detect if someone is trying to fool them ??? so there's no point trying to be someone you're not."
Diana Dawson, of Edinburgh-based occupational psychologists, Working Career
When you take the tests you should also:
- think about the skills and abilities recruiters want you to demonstrate
- relax and put time aside to do the tests when you won't be disturbed
- read the test instructions carefully
- review your answers if you have time
Always ask for feedback after the test. If you're successful, this should help you prepare for the interview. If you don't make it any further down the road, feedback will be useful for other job applications.
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