What are Online Psychometric Tests?
An online test is simply a psychometric test you take sitting at a computer console via the Internet. Instead of paper and pencil, it's all mouse action.
Within a few seconds of finishing the test, your score (for an ability test) or the analysis of your personality is emailed to the examiner.
What type of tests can be taken online?
Personality questionnaires, competency questionnaires, and virtually all ability-type tests. The only type of tests which are difficult to administer via the Internet are the management tests which job applicants do not usually encounter until they are invited to attend an assessment centre appointment.
What are the advantages of online testing?
For you, it means no worries about getting anywhere on time, and no worries about what to wear. Since you can take an online test any time of the day or night, you won't need to skip any classes, or even get dressed! Plus, you should find out if the organisation is interested in taking your application any further within a few minutes, which is a million times better than waiting for them to send you a letter.
The obvious advantage to the employer is that the candidate doesn't have come into the office. They can take the test at university, in a career office, at a recruitment agency, or even in the comfort of their own home. Instead of spending money 'entertaining' large numbers of candidates, the employer can whittle down the numbers without having to lift a finger. Another advantage for international firms is that they can test candidates anywhere in the world.
How does online testing work?
- Simply surf to the web site of the company you are interested in applying to.
- Look for a link through to 'recruitment' or if that isn't available, click on 'company information' which normally includes the relevant part of the site.
- Skip through the blurb about how wonderful it is to work there and click on the area of work you're interested in.
- Follow the instructions on screen, typing your details in the relevant boxes. If the application form asks for a lot of very detailed information, print out a copy and consider your answers carefully before filling in the real thing online.
- Once you've registered your details and/or filled in the application form, you will usually receive an acknowledgement and then the assessment process will begin.
- When you get to the test, read the questions carefully and click your answer choices with the mouse. Work quickly because most tests are set to time out after a certain period of time. This is to prevent you consulting your dictionary, your physics manual, or your best mate - more on this below.
- Make sure you answer all the questions. If there are any you really can't do, take an educated guess. Never leave a question unanswered.
- Within a few seconds of finishing the test, your score (for an ability test) or the analysis of your personality is emailed to the examiner. Tests are usually marked automatically, so it's very fast. Many employers will let you know the result within a few days, or even immediately.
