Psychometric Tests - advice and help

If you're looking for a job or a promotion then you've probably spent hours preparing your CV and getting ready to face some tough interview questions. However, what about Psychometric tests? With over 70% of the world's employers using aptitude tests as part of their recruitment process you need to make sure that you are prepared. These are formal, timed tests, taken either online or by filling in a printed answer sheet. They usually take the form of multiple choice questions.

1) The tests most commonly used in graduate recruitment are:

• Verbal tests - such as verbal reasoning, analysis and word sort
• Numerical tests - such as reasoning, analysis and sequential tests
• Diagrammatic and spatial reasoning - testing your sense of logic, visual capacity, and ability to infer a set of rules and apply to a new situation
• Specific tests - for example syntax for computer programming, data checking or mechanics

2) To get the best out of the test:

• Pay careful attention to the instructions
• Ask for clarification if you are unclear about anything
• Work as quickly and as accurately as you can
• If you get stuck on a question, move on and come back to it later if you have time
• (although be aware that often you cannot go backwards in an online test)

Psychometric tests aim to measure attributes like intelligence, aptitude and personality. They provide a potential employer with an insight into how well you work with other people, how well you handle stress, and whether you will be able to cope with the intellectual demands of the job.