Faced with the prospect of an economic downturn in 2009 and the increased probability of redundancy, many employees will be presented, possibility for the first time, with a personality test or aptitude test as part of their interview process.
This is because in recent years the use of psychometric testing as part of the job interview process has boomed. Psychometric testing is acknowledged as an accurate way to assess the character strengths and weaknesses of a candidate, thereby providing additional information in establishing the suitability for a position.
Many employers use psychometric testing as part of the "sifting process", getting to an interview can be dependent on completing and providing a satisfactory profile.
Unlike traditional exams, psychometric tests are not something that you can revise or "swot up" on. That said, it is considered helpful to be familiar with how the testing process works. So it is a very good idea to try some example psychometric tests to ensure that if during your job hunting you are presented with such a process, at least it won't be too much of a shock.