Psychometric tests are a scientific method used to measure mental capabilities and behavioural style. They are designed to measure suitability for a role based on required personality characteristics and aptitude. Employers use the test information to identify the hidden aspects of a candidate that are difficult to extract from a face-to-face interview.
Usually you will be asked to complete a psychometric test online once your initial application has been accepted, but before you’re invited to interview. For example, for Deloitte UK’s school leaver, industrial placement, summer scheme and graduate places, they ask that you play a ‘game-based assessment’ called Cosmic Cadet online. This gives Deloitte an idea of your personality traits and how you think – for example, how you innovate.
This is followed by further online testing under these headings: situational strengths, numerical reasoning and verbal critical reasoning.
While not time limited, the time taken will count towards your overall score. Some, such as the situational strengths, want to get an idea of how you’ll fit into the company and how you’ll react in certain situations. The numerical and verbal reasoning tests try to ascertain your ability to solve numerical problems and to work with and critically handle verbal information.
To find out more about psychometric testing, you can talk to your university or school careers service. Alternatively, there’s a lot of information online.
Also, if you have a company you want to work for in mind, research their recruitment process. Find out if they use psychometric testing and what it entails.
