Career Center » Interview Techniques » Psychometric Testing & Assessment Centers
PSYCHOMETRIC TESTING & ASSESSMENT CENTERS
Companies, in particular large multinational companies often use assessment centers and / or psychometric testing to assist them with finding a suitable candidate. Typically, these forms of assessment are performed following the initial telephone interview.
Psychometric Testing
These tests endeavour to ‘measure your mind’ and are ideally tailored to the specific requirements of a role. There are two key types of psychometric tests:
- Aptitude/ability tests (taken under timed conditions); and
- Personality questionnaires (used to see whether you would fit into the role and company culture).
They are either completed with pen/pencil and paper or are computer based. The latter can easily be completed remotely. If you are completing the tests in person you will generally have an opportunity to meet with the Administrator or Psychologist to obtain feedback on your tests prior to returning to your home country. Some specific points to consider include:
- Try and find out what kind of traits will be measured by the psychometric tests beforehand. For instance: numeracy, verbal reasoning, mechanical reasoning etc.
- Based on the overview given search for relevant online tests to prepare.
- Brush up on your basic arithmetic skills - make sure you can work out fractions and percentages without a calculator.
- During the test, read instructions carefully.
- Work as quickly as you can.
- Move on from questions you are finding difficult to complete.
Assessment Centers & Group Interviews
The assessment centers / group interviews typically run over a 1-3 day period and may consist of a selection of the following:
- A presentation;
- An informal/social event;
- An individual exercise;
- A role play;
- A group exercise; and
- A panel interview.
- Preparation and Performance
In terms of preparing for these assessment centers, keep in mind the selection criteria specified in the job advertisement, job description or during your initial interview. Every test, exercise, and interview will be matching you against these criteria.
Remember, the following aspects during your assessment:
- The assessment will be of your individual performance and not how well you perform at the expense of other candidates.
- It is about how you think and behave and not about what you know.
- Be yourself (at your best).
- Don’t try to present yourself in a way that is not genuine.
- Not everyone will excel at all exercises. You have a number of opportunities to demonstrate your skills and suitability.
- Try and talk to the other short listed candidates as establishing a rapport with others can help in group exercises.
