Psychometric Testing
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Use of the aptitude test in the recruitment process varies from company to company. In general it is used after the application form stage to measure raw verbal and numeric skills.
Often not dissimilar from standard IQ tests or the American SATs, the aptitude tests are not used just to measure abstract reasoning capacity. They are also a good indicator for the recruiter as to how you will perform under pressure.
In many cases, the time allowed for testing is brief - usually no more than half an hour, and often less. The risk of not completing the test is a significant one, so it is good to practice them in advance simply to get a sense of the pace at which you will need to work.
Some companies may also ask you to complete psychological profiles - in order to determine your personality type and the type of worker you are likely to be. These are not really things you can revise for; just answer honestly, and the company will able to analyse whether your personality fits in with the company's culture.
It's better to answer honestly and not fit, than to put what you think are 'the right answers' and end up somewhere where every working minute is torture.
Many companies construct their own tests (such as IBM), or ask third parties to develop specialised solutions for them. As such, it is difficult to find places to practice. However, we have found a few suggestions. There are a lot of tests out there - but some are of very variable quality.
We've tried to pick out the best of the bunch.
Prepare for the hardest part of recruitment
Improve your numeric and verbal reasoning
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OC&C Consulting Example
Used by OC&C Consulting, this site has some classic examples of what you might face.
Kent University Careers Service
Kent University has very helpfully put together some good examplar verbal and non-verbal reasoning tests.
Morrisby Organisation
A very short set of psychometric tests published by The Guardian, constructed by professional test setters The Morrisby Organisation. The second link takes you to Morrisby's wesbite, where a further test can be found on the home page.
Assessment Day
Some good free numerical and verbal reasoning test examples, as well as the opportunity to buy more if you really want to. Comes with timer to give you an idea of the pressure you may be under.
Psychometrics.co.uk
Plenty of options here - though make sure you only look at the relevant tests. Comes with additional careers advice and personal careers counselling service.
Practicetests.co.uk
Nine good practice tests available here, as well as some interesting discussion on the theory behind testing.
Mark Parkinson - Psychometric Links
A very comprehensive directory comprising a huge range of various psychometric tests, providing a invaluable resource for students looking to practice before applying to consultancies.
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