What is a Personality Test?
A personality test is a tool designed to reveal aspects of a person’s character or psychological makeup. These tests typically consist of a series of questions or statements where you choose responses that best describe your feelings, behavior, or preferences. The results aim to categorize or describe your personality traits, such as introversion or extroversion, thoughtfulness, or impulsivity. Employers, psychologists, and researchers often use personality tests to understand individual differences and for personal development. Unlike skill or intelligence tests, they focus more on your character and mindset rather than your knowledge or abilities.
Types of Personality Tests
There are many types of personality tests; let’s take a look at the ones most commonly used.
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)
This commonly used test analyzes and classifies you into one of 16 personality types, based on how you perceive the world and make decisions. The MBTI, published in 1944 and updated since, is based on a theory proposed by Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung.
Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire (16PF)
The 16PF is a widely used test that assesses normal personality traits. It’s commonly used in various settings, including pre-employment assessments and by mental health professionals for better understanding personality. This test categorizes personality across 16 factors, ranging from warmth to tension.
DISC Assessment
Based on psychologist William Moulton Marston’s theory, the DISC assessment focuses on four personality traits: Dominance (D), Influence (I), Steadiness (S), and Conscientiousness (C). It is commonly used in recruitment to understand behavioral styles.
Big Five Personality Test
The Big Five, or the five-factor model, identifies five basic aspects of human personality: openness, conscientiousness, extroversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism. Developed in the 1970s and repeatedly validated by research, it is considered one of the most reliable personality tests, evolving from earlier trait theories.
How Employers use Personality Tests
Employers often use personality tests during recruitment to better understand how a candidate’s characteristics align with the job’s requirements and company culture. These tests can reveal insights about your work style, how you interact with others, and your approach to problem-solving. For example, they might look for traits like teamwork, leadership, or adaptability, depending on the role. It’s not about passing or failing but rather ensuring a good fit between you and the role. Remember, these tests are just one part of the recruitment process, alongside interviews and skill assessments.
Can you Prepare for a Personality Test?
Personality tests differ from most aptitude tests as they don’t have right or wrong answers, and there isn’t a “perfect” personality type. Attempting to fake responses on these tests is not only challenging but also not advisable. Being honest and authentic in your responses is the best approach, as it helps both you and the employer determine if the job is right for you.
However, preparing for them is possible and beneficial. Understanding what to expect can help reduce test anxiety and increase your chances of completing the test accurately. We recommend trying out a no-risk personality test before taking an actual pre-employment test. Check out our free personality test based on the five-factor model below.
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