Many jobs require you to take (and pass) a psychological test before you can start working. You will find that this is a common practice in many professions, but it can still be very stressful. In order to improve your chances of passing the test, there are several things you can do.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Prepare for the test
Step 1. Think about the job requirements
As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, the hiring process becomes more complex. More and more companies are turning to psychological (or personality) assessments to determine if someone is a good fit for the job. Think seriously about the requirements that are necessary for a particular job that requires the test.
- For example, if you are looking for work as an executive or general manager, interviewers should make sure that you have strong leadership skills and that you are an excellent communicator.
- If you are applying for a job as a police officer, candidates are expected to show an ability to deal with high levels of stress and to think fast.
Step 2. Consider your personal characteristics
Psychological tests are essentially an assessment of your personality. Think about why you are applying for this job. It's probably because you feel like you are qualified and have the right temperament for this particular career.
- For example, if you are applying for a sales job, you know that a portion of your income will be generated by commission. Therefore, you must be highly motivated. Does it sound like you are? Reflect on the characteristics of your personality before the test. This will help you to be prepared to formulate the answers that fit the position.
- It is important that you be yourself when answering the questions. But, you also have to remember that you are being evaluated. For example, if you were asked: "If you know you are not going to be caught, would you steal something from the company?", You should answer "No". Even if you know you might consider stealing, it is not something you want to say during an interview.
Step 3. Know the needs of the company
During the interview process, you should not only highlight your strengths, but also express how you can specifically benefit the future employer. Think about what you can do to improve the productivity of the company. If you are aware of the company's needs, it is likely to be reflected in your personality test.
Before the test, feel free to ask the recruiter or HR representative what characteristics are most important to them. Then you can focus your answers on expressing those characteristics
Step 4. Take a practice test
It is impossible to predict the content of a test. However, you can prepare by being comfortable with the format. Keep in mind that most psychological tests consist of face-to-face interviews and a written questionnaire.
- You can search for practice tests online. Make sure you choose one from a reputable site that has strong psychology credentials.
- You can also hire an advisor to give you a practical test in person. This person will provide you with helpful tips and analysis.
Method 2 of 3: Take the Quiz
Step 1. Come prepared
Use your professional common sense. Show up on time and well groomed. Make sure to bring whatever supplies are required. Schedule your day so that you have plenty of time for the test. This will help you avoid feeling nervous if the process takes a long time.
Make sure you eat a light, balanced meal before the test. Being hungry can negatively affect your personality, so arrive properly fed
Step 2. Ask questions
You can and should ask questions before and during the test. Try to determine the format of the test. You can also ask how your results will be used. It is also good to know who will have access to your results.
As you do the quiz, be sure to ask for clarification if any questions are unclear. The examiner should be able to provide context or clarification
Step 3. Stay in interview mode
Remember, not only are your answers evaluated, but they consider your whole person. The test is part of the interview process, so make sure you remain professional and confident throughout the entire process.
If you get nervous, take a few seconds to collect your thoughts. You can also go out for a moment under the pretext of wanting to use the bathroom. This will give you time to take a deep breath and recover
Step 4. Be honest
Don't try to reflect yourself as someone you are not. First of all, the falsehood is likely to be reflected in your answers. This will not be seen as an advantage for any job. Second, you must not give the employer false expectations of your character. Any false information is likely to come to light after you start the job.
Remember that this test does not contain any correct or incorrect questions. There is no benefit to being dishonest
Method 3 of 3: Understand the purpose of the test
Step 1. Think like an employer
Hiring managers don't force you to take a personality test just for fun. The purpose of these tests is to help you make the most effective hiring decisions. Employers use the results to help them decide whether or not you have the right temperament for the position.
Try to see the test as something that can benefit you, not just the employer. You can see it as a great way to determine if this is a job where you can reach your full potential
Step 2. Understand validity
Keep in mind that psychology is not an exact science. Therefore, the results of any psychological test are never 100% reliable. Know that future employers will use the results as one of many factors in the hiring process.
Feel free to ask your HR department representative how much the test results will weigh when choosing the successful candidate
Step 3. Prepare for any outcome
They could hire you or not. But remember, just because you weren't the right person for the position, it doesn't mean you "failed" the exam. The employer is looking for certain characteristics. If you are not the best option, it simply means that you should continue with your job search.
Advice
- Try to be yourself during a psychological test. Stay calm and confident. You cannot fail this test.
- Each test is different. Results may vary if you are applying for (and testing for) a variety of jobs.
- Life will not end in that job; there is a great universe.