Finding out you will need to take part in a psychometric test can be daunting, especially if you’ve never completed one before.
Finding out you will need to take part in a psychometric test can be daunting, especially if you’ve never completed one before. But knowing what to expect can help allay your fears. Here we run through how to prepare for a psychometric test.
Psychometric testing is designed so employers can gain a better understanding of what makes you ‘you’. This goes beyond your CV and looks at parts of your character. This includes things like:
The test is there to create data, so any hiring decisions are objective and are focused on pairing the right person for the right work environment, role, and team culture.
It’s important to remember a psychometric test is not a grading of your personality. There is no right and wrong. It’s about finding two parties that will work cohesively and positively together.
Now with an understanding of what the psychometric test looks like, here’s how to prepare:
Your hiring manager or recruiter will be able to tell you more about the workplace and what type of fit they are looking for from a cultural and personality point of view. Use this information to first determine whether you believe you are suitable for the position before agreeing to take the psychometric test.
We also don’t suggest you alter your answers to the personality test to ensure you get the results they are looking for. For instance, if they are looking for a leader, and this isn’t your natural inclination, don’t answer the questions to skew the result. It will likely mean what might be a harmonious match on paper initially, will later come undone.
Some psychometric tests look at aptitude, such as numerical or abstract reasoning, while others look only at personality. Find out more about the specific test you are undertaking by asking your hiring manager or recruiter.
For examples of types of psychometric tests, see our blog post, ‘How to use psychometric testing in recruitment.’
Familiarise yourself with the types of questions and the format. This practice will help calm your nerves before the real test.
If there is a time limit set for you to take your psychometric test, plan your approach. Will you divide your time evenly for each question, or rather, aim to complete as much as you can correctly no matter how long you take on each question? Regardless of your approach, be reassured that some aptitude tests are designed so only a small percentage can complete every single question.
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