Do you never seem to be able to land a job because you do so poorly on those pre-employment “personality tests”? Despite the horrible ethical implications of using a computer to assess one’s personality, companies believe in them and they’re not going away any time soon. Some will argue that “there is no right or wrong answer, the test is a way to make sure the potential candidate is the best match for the company.” In today’s volatile job market, of course there is a right answer: the answer that gets you hired. In this article, you’ll learn the ins, outs, tricks, and pitfalls with taking these pre-employment screenings.Difficulty: Moderately EasyInstructions Things You’ll NeedJust your wits1First, you have to realize that the people making a lot of the major decisions in most companies are way out of touch with reality. Whoever makes the decision to implement personality tests for potential new-hires is enticed by the supposed savings and increase in the overall quality of employees and disregards that these tests are extremely flawed for several reasons. Almost any personality assessment you’ll ever take does not apply to the real world in the slightest bit, and we’re going to explore why.2 The first type of question you’ll encounter is the “no-brainer.” It’s meant to establish that the test taker isn’t completely brain-dead. A good example of a no-brainer is:I can count to ten.()True()FalseObviously, you shouldn’t get any of these wrong as long as you’re paying attention.3The next type of question is slightly more tricky, wherein it gives you multiple outcomes which are equally socially acceptable, but tries to establish a “personality type.” The best thing to remember is that you’re trying to establish that you’re an outgoing, friendly person. Here are a couple of questions you’ll encounter:I like to be in a large crowd.()True()FalseAlthough the casual applicant may think that neither of these are undesirable and that there is “no wrong answer,” the hidden subtext of the question is trying to establish if you’re an introvert or extrovert. You of course want your prospective employer to think you’re an extrovert, so answer “true.” This type of question may take several forms, so be on the lookout. Here are some more examples of questions like this and the correct answers.I like to be alone. (False)I don’t mind being the center of attention. (True)I like going to big events with large crowds. (True)Remember, you have to answer all of these questions in a similar manner to score the highest.4The next type of question tries to establish your work habits. Obviously it is in your best interest to answer all of these questions in a way that makes you look like a dedicated, efficient, hard worker. Most of them are easy, but there are a few that can be tricky. Take the following for example:I work my best under pressure.()True()FalseMost people will second-guess this question and think “Well, if I answer ‘true’, then they’ll expect me to work extra hard.” Remember, it’s just an assessment. The score is interpreted as a raw number. The individual answers have no bearing on your job placement; the only thing that’s important is that the answers are right. Therefore, when a question like this arises, always answer favorably. Here are some sample questions and their correct answers:I take frequent breaks while working. (False)I tend to find more to do when I’m done working. (True)I don’t need a lot of direct supervision. (True)I work best under direct supervision. (False) This last one is quite tricky, because some people DO work well under direct supervision, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But to the writers of the test, this question is asking:If I’m not constantly under supervision, I will slack off.5This type of question attempts to establish your aptitude for customer service, leadership, and self-management. These are usually not that deceitful, but there are some to watch out for. Take this question:A customer approaches you who is obviously angry and starts yelling at you. You:()Yell back. The customer is being abusive and disrespectful and must be put in his place.()Call your supervisor.()Smile, calmly apologize to the customer, then ask him what you can do to help the situation.()Call the police.Read more: How to Pass a Pre-employment Personality Test | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/how_4446746_pass-preemployment…...
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