SHL OPQ Test Knowledge 1 — Questions and Answers

Question 1: What do employers typically do with the results of an OPQ test?

To decide on salary negotiations
To ascertain the educational background
To determine whether you are best suited for the position for which you applied (Correct answer)
To ascertain the family history

Correct answer: To determine whether you are best suited for the position for which you applied

The SHL OPQ (Occupational Personality Questionnaire) is a psychometric assessment designed to evaluate an individual's preferred behavioral style in the workplace. Employers use these results to understand how a candidate's personality traits align with the demands of a specific job role and the company culture. This helps them identify candidates who are most likely to thrive and perform well in the position, ensuring a good person-job fit.

Question 2: What is your rating for a statement that you did not select as "most like me" or "least like me"?

Zero rating
Moderate rating (Correct answer)
High rating
Low rating

Correct answer: Moderate rating

In an SHL OPQ test, you are typically asked to choose the statement "most like me" and "least like me" from a set of four. The two statements you do not select are automatically assigned a moderate rating. This forced-choice format helps to reduce social desirability bias and provides a more nuanced profile of your personality preferences, as all statements contribute to the overall score.

Question 3: What does the SHL OPQ Personality Test seek to assess?

Aptitude
Personality traits (Correct answer)
Emotional intelligence
Communication skills

Correct answer: Personality traits

The SHL OPQ (Occupational Personality Questionnaire) is specifically designed to assess an individual's personality traits relevant to the workplace. It measures 32 specific personality characteristics across various dimensions, such as relationships with people, thinking style, and feelings and emotions. This assessment helps employers understand a candidate's typical behaviors and preferences in a professional setting.

Question 4: How should you prepare for an OPQ Personality Test?

Take practice exams (Correct answer)
Practice your responses
Discuss with your friends.
Remember the questions.

Correct answer: Take practice exams

While personality tests don't have "right" or "wrong" answers in the traditional sense, taking practice exams for an OPQ Personality Test helps you become familiar with the format, question types, and the underlying traits being assessed. This familiarity can reduce anxiety and allow you to answer more authentically and consistently, reflecting your true work preferences. It also helps you understand the types of scenarios and statements you'll encounter.

Question 5: What do companies use personality tests to assess as part of their hiring process?

Essential characteristics for the position (Correct answer)
Intelligence level
Previous employment experience
Qualifications in education

Correct answer: Essential characteristics for the position

Companies use personality tests like the SHL OPQ to assess whether a candidate possesses the essential behavioral characteristics and preferences required for a specific job role. These tests help identify traits such as teamwork, leadership potential, resilience, and problem-solving approaches that are crucial for success in a particular position. The goal is to ensure a strong person-job fit beyond just skills and experience.

Question 6: What is one of the qualities desired for most positions?

Is capable of learning quickly
Shows resilience to workload and colleague pressure (Correct answer)
Is capable of remaining organized
Keeps a positive attitude

Correct answer: Shows resilience to workload and colleague pressure

Resilience is a highly valued quality in most professional positions, as it indicates an individual's ability to cope with stress, adapt to challenges, and maintain performance under pressure. Employers seek candidates who can effectively manage demanding workloads and navigate interpersonal dynamics without becoming overwhelmed or disengaged. This trait is crucial for sustained productivity and a positive work environment.

Question 7: What is the maximum time span for which the test results are considered valid?

12-18 months (Correct answer)
6 months
24 months
2 years

Correct answer: 12-18 months

SHL OPQ test results are generally considered valid for a period of 12 to 18 months. This timeframe accounts for the fact that while core personality traits are relatively stable, minor shifts in preferences or work styles can occur over time due to new experiences or personal development. After this period, a re-assessment might be recommended to ensure the profile remains an accurate reflection of the individual.

SHL OPQ Test Knowledge 1

What do employers typically do with the results of an OPQ test?