Personality tests have become an increasingly more popular aspect of the pre-employment hiring process. A personality test is an exam used by employers to identify which candidates possess the correct personality fit for their company. The personality test highlights certain aspects of an individual’s character.
Employers assume you have zero background information about personality tests, and that you therefore will provide spontaneous answers. However, answering on the spot may not highlight the personality traits your employer is looking for. That's where focused practice comes in. Here are some helpful tips on how to ace your pre-employment personality test:
Tip 1: Use Your Professional Persona
We all have many different facets to our personality. Thus, we are liable to answer any given question differently, depending on the day or the mood that we're in. However, on the personality test, you must answer every question professionally. To ensure you do so, review in advance the types of questions you will encounter, as well as how best to answer them based on your profession.
Tip 2: There Are Right and Wrong Answers
There is a common misconception that there's no wrong way to answer a personality test question. I hate to be the one to break it you, but this is simply NOT TRUE. The purpose of the pre-employment personality assessment is to find a candidate who possesses certain character traits. This, in fact, proves there are specific personality traits which are more 'suitable' for certain professions.
Tip 3: Don’t Let Fatigue Get the Best of You
Pre-employment personality tests are usually lengthy, and the style of question often repeats itself. There is a strong temptation to start answering questions carelessly as time goes on. Fight that temptation! Make sure you do not hastily choose the first answer that seems appropriate to you, but rather that you read all the choices. The test is designed to include multiple answers that may seem correct. What can differentiate you from other candidates is the ability to manage that fatigue.
Tip 4: Avoid Being Indecisive
Often, candidates will provide a wide variety of answers on personality tests to show they possess a well-rounded personality. Research shows that employers prefer decisive and confident employees. Make sure you are consistent in the way you answer questions. It is important to present yourself in a clear and precise manner.
Tip 5: Do Your Research
Before you go in for an interview, try to gather as much information as you can. Ask the HR representative which test you will be given, and review test materials based on that specific exam. Be aware that the styles of each company's exams differ. Check out SHL’s OPQ32 personality test.
Tip 6: Relax
Stress is an important factor when taking a personality test. It affects not only the way you answer questions, but it can also paint a certain picture of your personality to the employer. If you are applying to a highly competitive position, you don’t want to appear anxious on exam day. Making sure you know what to expect is the best way to manage your stress and ensure you display your personality strengths.
Best of luck, candidates! I hope my simple tips allow you to let the best part of your personalities shine.
This article was contributed by Jennifer Feldman. She is a speech and language expert and blogger for JobTestPrep. She specialises in writing about the employment hiring process.
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