Psychometric tests

Around 60% of graduate recruiters use some form of testing as part of their selection process so it is worth knowing what to expect and how to prepare.

Aptitude tests

Designed to measure your intellectual reasoning abilities, the main areas tested are verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning and diagrammatic or inductive reasoning. Tests are timed and employers will usually have a cut off point that a candidate has to achieve in order to progress. These tests are very often part of the initial selection process.

Personality assessment

There are no right or wrong answers to these questions and they are designed by employers to see how you would fit into an organisation and in particular a specific role. You can’t really practice personality tests and the best advice is to answer honestly to avoid appearing inconsistent.

How do you practice aptitude tests and personality assessments?

It is definitely worth practising for aptitude tests as performance can be improved. This is particularly the case for the numerical reasoning test, as you may not have used maths for a while. Use resources such as GCSE study guides and BBC Bitesize to regain your confidence. Improve your speed-reading by using broadsheet newspapers to skim the information. Remember, tests are timed and the number of questions you are able to answer will affect your performance.

My Potential is a resource you can access for free which lets you practice aptitude tests and receive detailed feedback on your performance. The My Potential login details are available from Purple Door Careers and Recruitment.

Further advice and information