Selection Tests

There are two main types of psychometric tests used.

• Ability tests or Cognitive tests.
• Personality tests.

Tips and an employer’s perspective on the use of psychometric tests at Destinations®.

Ability Testing

Typically includes:

• Verbal reasoning.
• Numerical reasoning.
• Diagrammatic reasoning.

Verbal Reasoning tests your ability to understand and reason with written information. The test consists of a series of passages, each of which is followed by several statements. Your task is to evaluate each statement in the light of the passage, which precedes it.

Numerical Reasoning looks at your ability to understand facts and figures usually presented in the form of tables, charts and graphs. These are usually done using a calculator.

Diagrammatic Reasoning looks at your ability to reason with abstract information presented within logical sequences and to apply them in the form of symbols and diagrams. This test is normally used when employers are looking for IT personnel.

Personality Tests

• Used sometimes as part of the selection process to draw up a profile of your typical reactions and attitudes to a range of situations.
• Questions focus on a number of personality factors such as:
  • How you relate to others.
  • Your workstyle.
  • Your emotions.
  • Your general outlook on life or attitude.
  • What you say about yourself is often the basis for further discussion at interview.
• There are no right or wrong answers.
• Best way to approach these tests is to answer them as honestly as you can. Guessing what the employer is looking for is often difficult and could be counter productive.
  Hear how a UK graduate, when she starting working, found these personality assessments helpful at Destinations®

Related Resources

• Practice Selection Tests online with "Profiling for Success" Online Personality & Ability Assessments.
• Gradireland.com - information on psychometric tests.
• Prospects.ac.uk - information on psychometric tests.
• targetjobs.co.uk - information on psychometric tests.
• How to Pass Advanced Aptitude Tests - Barrett, James, 2002.

For more information see Resources (Testing)