How to Take the 16PF Test for Employment

The 16PF is a personality test that measures 16 different scales of personality. It is widely used in a variety of settings such as psychological treatment planning, couples' counseling, vocational guidance and by human resource departments to determine the hiring and promotion of individuals. The 16 different scales measure areas such as warmth, reasoning, emotional stability, vigilance and openness to change. These scales are then grouped into global factors like extraversion, independence and self-control. You can take the test for employment opportunities at places that require the test for hiring purposes, you can take the test online and include it as part of your curriculum vitae/resume when seeking employment, or you can schedule an appointment with a psychologist and take the test at his or her office.

• 1

  Determine how and where you will take the test. If you are taking the test online at home, make sure you have a quiet area reserved for 35 to 50 minutes. If you are taking the test at a psychologist's office, make sure you have made an appointment for the test so that all materials are available. If you are taking the test at a place of employment, prepare to be there for the required amount of time without interruptions.

• 2

  Read the test directions carefully so that you understand what is expected of you. Often questions are repeated or reworded. Concentrate and answer all questions honestly.

• 3

  Set aside time to look at the results. If you are taking the test at a place of employment, ask to see the results. The two reports primarily used for employment are the career and interpretive reports. If you are purchasing the course for your own use, you will choose one or both of these reports. If you are taking the test at a psychologist's office, specify which report you want or if you want both. The career development report helps you understand things like how you cope in stressful situations, how you interact with others, your leadership and organizational styles, among other characteristics. The interpretative report shows your scores on the 16 personality scales as well as the global factors and lists occupations for which you are suited.

• 4

  Make copies of your report(s). If you have paid for and taken the test online, or if you have taken the test at a psychologist's office to include it in your employment package, keep several hard copies on file during your employment search.