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Last Updated on December 29, 2024
Psychometric tests are sometimes called ‘measurements of the mind’. Various types of these tests are actively applied by employers during recruitment to get a better understanding of the candidates`
The value of psychometric testing and its importance is undoubtful. The fact that the results reflect the key strengths and weaknesses might make them a decisive factor for a recruitment decision. In case you doubt your potential, mental traits, and capacities, which often result in frustration and uncertainty in career choices, psychometric testing is a key to a better understanding of yourself.
What This Article Covers
- An introduction to psychometric tests and their role in recruitment.
- The purpose of psychometric tests is to measure
skills , traits, and behaviors. - Reasons why companies use psychometric tests for transparent
hiring . - Key types of psychometric tests, including numerical and verbal reasoning.
- The importance of psychometric tests in aligning job seekers with suitable roles.
- Steps to choose the right psychometric test based on your career objectives.
- Tips to approach and pass psychometric tests with confidence and minimal stress.
- How practicing psychometric tests can enhance self-awareness and job readiness.
What are the psychometric tests?
Psychometric testing is a system of test tasks that help to measure the potential behaviors of an individual. These tests are designed to evaluate personal characteristics such as intelligence,
Originally, these tests were paper-based, but due to the overall tendency towards the digital realm, their form has become more of computer-administered.
Psychometric tests are sometimes called ‘measurements of the mind’. These tests are applied by employers during recruitment to get a better understanding of the candidates' skills &competencies. Click To TweetWhy do companies use psychometric testing?
Psychometric testing was developed to serve the purpose of educational psychology. However, now it is applied by employers to get insights for a more adequate assessment. Accurate and measurable results and easy integration into the recruitment process make it a perfect tool to make recruitment more transparent and minimize bias.
Some companies favor psychometric tests as an efficient way to perform screening and reduce the load of candidates’ applications in the initial stages of the recruitment process. Defining a small pool of candidates that are more likely to fit the position saves time and money both for employers and employees.
What are the types of psychometric tests?
Psychometric testing is about measuring mental attributes. Therefore, several types of psychometric tests may be distinguished according to the subject of the measurement: capabilities, aptitude for the position, and personality.
The list includes but is not limited to:
- Numerical Reasoning
- Verbal Reasoning
- Diagrammatic Reasoning
- Watson Glazer
- Inductive Reasoning
- Situational Judgement
Why are psychometric tests important for your job search ?
Every job seeker needs to have an accurate search strategy, which will lead to success. Besides, it is important to be specific about your choice of a job. Have you ever asked yourself “What kind of job truly appeals to my abilities?”
Successful companies are interested in making sure that their interviewees have appropriate aptitudes and personalities for the role. When done correctly, psychometric tests increase the probability of applying for the right position at the right time. These tests largely contribute to the understanding of hidden traits and talents. This is why it’s important to practice psychometric tests before the interview. Consider this opportunity to grasp the insights and get a better understanding of yourself before applying for a position.
How to choose a perfect psychometric test for yourself?
A wide range of opportunities to take a psychometric assessment on your own at no expense exists. However, considering the variety of these tests, it may be a challenging task to choose the one that will provide the most accurate result. We would advise you to make your choice based on 3 key steps:
- Define your objectives
- Understand the difference between the tests (three main categories of psychometric tests exist and you have to choose which one is the best for you personally in your current situation).
- Choose.
After setting your mind about two of the above-mentioned criteria be sure to take into consideration the following factors before making your final decision:
- Reliability of the test
Choose scientifically validated tests and reliable providers to get the most accurate and profound results.
- Impartiality of the test provider
- Interoperation mode of the results
You want to get the result to be clear, understandable, and provided without a delay.
Tips to pass a psychometric test with no stress
Taking tests is always a bit stressful. Feeling nervous and anxious is a common thing. A key benefit of psychometric tests is that there is no bad result. Keep in my mind, that you want to understand yourself better, thus all the results are precious.
Above all, keep calm, take your time, concentrate, and stick to your usual thinking pattern. Be yourself as it will contribute to the accuracy of the results.
Taking psychometric testing is a great chance to learn a bit more about yourself and how you come across to others. Hopefully now, armed with all of this information, the next time you’re asked to complete a psychometric assessment you will feel much better prepared.
Psychometric tests have become an integral part of the recruitment process. Thus, being prepared for them may considerably facilitate your job search. However, passing a job interview is more than just passing a psychometric test. Be all armed and read more about the four main resources for the
The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test, or CCAT for the International Criteria, is one of the most common tests for the U.S. Candidate Assessment.
Joey Trebif is the pen name of Mark Fiebert, a former finance executive who hired and managed dozens of professionals during his 30-plus-year career. He now shares expert job search, resume, and career advice on CareerAlley.com.
