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Do Psychological Tests Make a Difference in Getting a Job?

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When filling out a job application, consider that you may be psychologically evaluated if you are interviewed.

Question: I recently had a first interview for a regional sales management position, and it went very well. I’m interested in the company and they seem interested in me. But they required that I take four hours of psychological tests, then interview with a career psychologist. How much weight do you think a company places on the value of these tests in relation to having a lot of practical experience?

— Larry, Philadelphia

Larry: As the cost of hiring and training continues to rise, companies will take every measure to make sure you’re not a bad apple who’ll need replacing in a year. At many employers, this includes psychological assessment, even though such testing can be expensive. Consider the following advice offered to company HR professionals from Michigan consultant John Agno: “Use pre-employment testing to screen candidates,” he writes. “You can now screen for learning ability, personality and interests…by comparing the profile of the candidate with a composite profile of your best performers to engineer the right job match.” If company recruiters say they like you and that the test is just a formality, be sure to take it very seriously. Some candidates don’t understand the importance of a psychological evaluation and fail to give their best effort. Psychologists say such a lackadaisical attitude will be reflected in the results and can cost you a job offer. And no, you can’t study for a psychological test (although anything you do to improve your mental health is a good move).

Do Psychological Tests Make a Difference in Getting a Job? by
Authored by: Granted Contributor