Psychometric Testing

Psychometrics (literally 'measurement of the mind') is the field of study concerned with psychological measurement, which includes the measurement of knowledge, abilities, attitudes and personality traits. There are two major branches of psychometrics used to assess job applicants: psychometric tests (measuring specific skills and abilities) and personality questionnaires (measuring personality characteristics).

As psychometric (or ability) tests assess particular skills and abilities, they have specific right and wrong answers and may be prepared for successfully by a certain amount of work, revision and practice. Conversely, personality questionnaires seek to describe your style, interests or motivation and how these characteristics relate to the requirements of the job and the organization. They have no right or wrong answers and there is very little you can do to prepare for them.

Psychometric assessment often plays an important part in the recruitment process, but for applicants it can be a nerve-wracking experience. However, help is at hand. We've put together some top tips to help you prepare for psychometric tests along with some useful guidelines on how to approach personality questionnaires in the right manner so that you are able to carry out both to the best of your ability.