Psychometric assessmemt

A psychometric assessment test is a scientific method which organizations employ to analyze the
behavior aspect of people. They gauge if a particular person is suited for a job opening based on
two core principles,i.e., personality and ability. They are created to map an individual’s skills,
personality traits, and attitude required to perform successfully on-the-job. The tests analyze the
role fitment of a job prospect. Psychometric profiling assessments measure specific behavioral
traits that often get missed out during personal interviews. Thus, psychometric tests provide a
more holistic view of a prospect’s personality.
Psychometric evaluation is used in recruitment and learning and development (L&D) to improve
the quality of hires and make development programs useful and engaging. They assist employers
in making the right people decisions.

Types of Psychometric Tests

Psychometric assessments encompass two categories:
1) Aptitude and Ability Tests
These tests evaluate the mental abilities of individuals. Having one right answer to each question,
they allow people to answer the questions in a limited period. They test an individual’s critical
thinking, logical reasoning, verbal ability and problem-solving skills. They assess how
individuals use past experiences in novel situations. An aptitude test measures logical reasoning
and verbal ability.

2) Personality and Aptitude Tests

Human behavior is an amalgamation of how individuals perceive and react to different
situations. It is on this premise that personality tests are based on. They follow the OCEAN
model of:
 Openness
 Conscientiousness
 Extraversion
 Agreeableness
 Neuroticism
Personality assessments help organizations understand the candidate’s behavior whether they
would perform well in a team or strive for better or not be able to cope with criticism,  These
tests effectively assess the behaviors and motivations of a person.

Introduction to the Big Five Model (OCEAN Model)

The Big Five Factor Model was developed in the 1970s by two research teams led by Robert R.
McCrae, Paul Costa, Lewis Goldberg and Warren Norman. The model has a simplified human
personality.
i) Openness

Individuals possessing this trait have a natural penchant towards adventure and art. They are
curious, creative and open to change. Meanwhile, people averse to openness stick to their old
routine, habits and keep new experiences at bay.

A shift in someone’s personality is next to impossible, however, the extent of openness tends to
evolve in adulthood. This was observed by a group of researchers in 2011 when they analyzed
the effects of psilocybin mushroom on a group of people. Consuming the hallucinogen made the
controlled group more open with the effects lasting around a year. Thus, it was concluded that
the results may have been permanent.
ii) Conscientiousness

People high on conscientiousness are organized and have a sense of responsibility. They have the
drive to achieve their goals and are highly reliable. This trait has shown marked achievement on
the job. People on the opposite side, however, are spontaneous and careless.
iii) Extraversion

Individuals that possess extraversion indicate various characteristics including sociability and
talkativeness. They draw their energy from day-to-day social interactions or gatherings. Such
individuals are mostly cheerful and assertive in their approach.

Meanwhile, introverts are a professor of ‘me time’. While the trait often gets mixed up with
being shy, that’s not the case. Individuals with high introversion trait prefer smaller group
activities when required and tend to enjoy their own company more.
iv) Agreeableness:

Agreeableness is indicative of a person’s kindness. Such individuals are trusting and helpful. On
the other hand, disagreeable people are cold, suspicious of others and less cooperative.

It is interesting to note that disagreeable men earn more compared to their counterparts and
women as they conform to traditional gender roles. The research paper published in the Journal
of Personality and Social Psychology shows how agreeableness and income are inversely
proportional and more negative for men than women.
v) Neuroticism:

Individuals possessing this trait worry a lot and oftentimes find themselves feeling depressed and
anxious. People low on neuroticism are emotionally stable and exhibit calm and composure
when faced with problems.

In the famous sitcom Seinfield, George has seen constantly cribbing and blaming everyone for
his problems. He even goes as far as quitting his job for having denied access to a private
bathroom. This is a classic example of neurosis.