What, When & Why of Psychometric Testing

Psychometric testing, you might have heard of it, you might not. In this article we aim to explain what it is, when you use and why you use it.

Let’s begin.

What is psychometric testing?

Psychometric tests are one of the most accurate ways to predict future job performance. By testing individuals on a number of areas including:
• Numerical Aptitude
• Verbal Aptitude
• Abstract Reasoning Ability
• Spatial Ability
• Technical Ability
• Clerical Ability

You can establish an individuals working style, how they deal with stress and work with others in a much more clinical and accurate way than if you were to ask them outright. People can be very convincing in interviews but you can’t fake a psychometric test.

When do you use psychometric testing?

Psychometric testing is most often used in recruitment. Employers use the tests to aid them in making the most accurate appointment of someone for a role.

Choosing the wrong individual for a role can be both disastrous for the company but also for the individual. For the company huge amounts of revenue can be lost in hiring and training only to leave them with a poorly filled role. Knock on effects can be increased absenteeism, reduced efficiency, lowered morale and lower productivity rates. For the employee, being placed in the wrong role can lead to stress and depression as well as loss of motivation and anxiety issues.

Choosing the right person for the job is a struggle employers have faced for years and years. However, thanks to research and implementation it has been found that psychometric testing has become the most accurate determiner of future job performance. Employers, think of it like having a crystal ball.

Why do you use psychometric tests?

Psychometric tests allow you to be objective. They allow you to see talents and characteristics as well as failures and blockades, which may not be apparent in an interview scenario.
Due to their predictive accuracy they are a much more valid means of testing individuals on their potential than by comparing degree scores, A Level results or their hobbies.

Finally, psychometric tests are much more cost effective than the hiring, training, supporting, firing, fixing, rehiring process. Putting people into roles they aren’t suited for is an expensive mistake companies have to pay for. By investing in testing, companies will see lowered costs of hiring and a better return on their investment.

If you are a employer looking to find out more about psychometric tests then contact Hogrefe today.