Suitability assessment is a key part of the recruitment process that helps employers find the best candidates for open positions. There are many methods of suitability assessment, and they can vary depending on the goals of the assessment and the resources available. In this article, we will go through the most common suitability assessment methods and their benefits.
Psychometric Tests
Psychometric tests are one of the most common methods of suitability assessment. They measure a candidate’s cognitive abilities, personality traits, and other psychological characteristics. Psychometric tests can include cognitive ability tests, personality tests, and motivation tests. These tests provide a comprehensive picture of a candidate’s strengths and areas for development.
Operaria uses, among other things, the Master Person Analysis (MPA), which helps identify candidates’ and talents’ abilities and potential. MPA measures, among other things, goal setting, interaction style, and attitude towards changes. This helps employers make informed decisions in recruitment.
Job Interviews
Job interviews are a traditional and widely used method of suitability assessment. Interviews can be structured, semi-structured, or open. Structured interviews use predefined questions that are asked to all candidates in the same order. This allows for objective comparison of candidates.
Operaria’s job interviews are in-depth and diverse discussions that focus on the candidate’s personality, skills, uncertainties, plans, and dreams. The goal is to find a comprehensive and functional match that supports both the employer’s and the employee’s needs.
Simulations and Work Tasks
Simulations and work tasks are practical methods of suitability assessment where candidates perform tasks that correspond to the requirements of the future job. These methods allow for the assessment of a candidate’s practical skills, problem-solving ability, and working style.
For example, in recruiting for sales positions, simulations can be used where the candidate has to sell a product or service to an imaginary customer. This provides the employer with concrete information about the candidate’s sales skills and customer service attitude.
References and Recommendations
References and recommendations are an important part of suitability assessment. They provide valuable information about a candidate’s previous work history, performance, and working methods. References can ensure that the candidate has demonstrated the necessary skills and qualities in previous roles.
Operaria uses references as part of the recruitment process to ensure that the candidate fits well with the company’s culture and job requirements. References also provide additional information about the candidate’s strengths and areas for development, which helps in making better recruitment decisions.
Work Personality Tests
Work personality tests, such as OPTO, are a key part of suitability assessment. These tests are often based on the Big Five model, which measures five key personality traits: openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism. Work personality tests help assess how well a candidate fits a specific job and organizational culture.
The OPTO test measures eight traits essential for job performance and success. This helps employers focus on behavior traits relevant to business and organizational goals, reducing recruitment costs and time.
Cognitive Ability Tests
Cognitive ability tests measure a candidate’s learning and problem-solving ability. These tests are particularly useful when assessing a candidate’s potential to perform demanding tasks. Cognitive ability tests can include tasks measuring numerical, verbal, and spatial reasoning.
Operaria uses the ACE (Adjustable Competence Evaluation) ability test, a modern adaptive test. The ACE test ensures that the candidate is well-suited for the job and that the task is appropriately challenging. Test results can also be used in individual-oriented onboarding and management.
Motivation Tests
Motivation tests assess a candidate’s intrinsic motivation and interest in a specific job. These tests can help identify what motivates the candidate and how well they fit the organization’s culture and values. Motivation tests can include questions about the candidate’s goals, values, and working methods.
Motivation tests ensure that the candidate is motivated and committed to the job, increasing the likelihood of a long-term and successful employment relationship. This is particularly important when recruiting key personnel or for leadership positions.
Summary
There are many methods of suitability assessment, and their selection depends on the goals of the assessment and the resources available. Psychometric tests, job interviews, simulations and work tasks, references and recommendations, work personality tests, cognitive ability tests, and motivation tests are all effective methods that help find the best candidates for open positions.
Operaria uses diverse suitability assessment methods to ensure that the recruitment process is comprehensive and objective. This way, we can help companies find the right talents that support their business goals and organizational culture.




