How to Take an Employment Personality Test
For many employers, part of the application process involves an employment personality test. Personality tests are similar to a traditional one-on-one interview in that you are asked questions and required to give a satisfactory response. The tests go one step further by trying to discover your compatibility through psychological and behavioral questions. The test results allow employers to screen out incompatible applicants. As with interviews, it is useful to answer these questions strategically, with a balance of honesty and critical thinking.
Instructions
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Read and reread the job posting for the position for which you are applying. Get a strong grasp of the objectives, qualities and skills required for the position. Because you are claiming to be a good fit for the job, it is vital that you know exactly what constitutes the ideal candidate.
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Research the company to which you are applying. A company's website and marketing material contains valuable information about what the company is, how it positions itself in the job market, how it regards its competitors and clients and what it hopes to become.
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Take notes on the company's background, profile, previous work, mission statement and key players. Your aim is to get a clear understanding of the company to position yourself as the perfect new hire.
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Relax, and avoid stressing out on the day of the testing. A cool demeanor implies confidence and security, which are highly coveted features in an employee.
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Answer ratings questions with firm, strong responses. Most personality tests will require that you rate your feelings on a topic with "strongly agree," "agree," "somewhat agree" and so on. Employers like to see assertiveness, rather than indecisiveness, in their employees, so select "strongly agree/disagree," wherever appropriate.
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Anticipate the responses for which your employer will be looking. Because you have a clear idea of what the company is and what it's looking for in this hire, you should also be able to determine the responses its ideal employee would provide.
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Provide your rationale, wherever possible. Use every possible occasion to elaborate on your ideas and provide feedback. This is your opportunity to show your ideas and how you, not only fit the company's needs, but bring your own expertise to the table.
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Avoid providing responses which can be interpreted as undesirable. Many personality tests employ "true/false" questions to narrow in on the subject. If the job requires face-time with clients, do not answer "true" to a statement such as, "I prefer to work alone." These will be an immediate red flag to the employer.
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Answer each question thoughtfully and carefully. Personality tests not only give employers insight into potential employees, they can also show applicants if they are cut out for working with a particular company.
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References
- Photo Credit taking test image by Petro Feketa from Fotolia.com
