If you’re applying for jobs, there’s a good chance you’ll be asked to complete a personality assessment test during the hiring process. These tests help employers understand your work style, behavior, and how well you’re likely to fit into the team and company culture.
But don’t stress—personality tests aren’t something to be afraid of. With the right preparation and mindset, you can approach them confidently and even use them to your advantage. Here’s how to prepare and succeed.
What Are Personality Assessments?
Personality assessments are standardized tests that evaluate your typical behavior, preferences, and personality traits. They are used to predict how you’ll behave in the workplace, how you interact with others, and how you manage stress, conflict, and decision-making.
Commonly Used Personality Tests Include:
- Hogan Personality Inventory (HPI) – Focuses on traits that influence job performance and leadership potential.
- DISC Personality Test – Measures behavior patterns based on four areas: Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness.
- Big Five (OCEAN) – Looks at Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism.
- MBTI (Myers-Briggs) – Groups individuals into 16 personality types.
- Situational Judgment Tests (SJTs) – Assess your responses to hypothetical work scenarios.
Why Do Employers Use Personality Tests?
Companies use these tests to get a clearer picture of how you might perform in a role—not just based on experience, but based on how your personality aligns with the job and work environment.
Benefits for Employers:
- Helps predict long-term job success
- Improves team dynamics and hiring fit
- Reduces employee turnover
- Supports leadership and career development decisions
Understanding the Hogan Personality Inventory (HPI)
One of the most popular and widely respected tests in the hiring world is the Hogan Personality Inventory. It’s used by major employers, especially for evaluating potential leaders and professionals in high-stakes roles.
What Does the HPI Measure?
- Adjustment – How calm and stable you are under pressure
- Ambition – Your drive, initiative, and leadership style
- Sociability – How comfortable you are interacting with others
- Prudence – Discipline, self-control, and reliability
- Inquisitive – Curiosity, creativity, and interest in innovation
- Learning Orientation – Openness to learning and self-improvement
The HPI is designed specifically to assess your day-to-day behavior in the workplace and how it may impact job performance.
How to Prepare for a Personality Test
While these tests don’t have “right” or “wrong” answers, preparation can help you present yourself in the best light—authentically and clearly.
1. Find Out Which Test You’ll Take
Try to learn what test is being used. Some employers will tell you directly, or you may find clues in the job listing or recruiter communication. Knowing what to expect makes it easier to prepare.
2. Familiarize Yourself With Sample Questions
Practice tests are available online for free or through paid prep tools. Taking a few practice runs can help you:
- Understand how questions are structured
- Get used to rating scales (e.g., strongly agree to strongly disagree)
- Identify how your answers reflect certain traits
3. Analyze the Job Requirements
Read the job description closely. If the role requires leadership, initiative, or independence, those are traits the assessment may focus on. For support roles, they may be looking for empathy, patience, and dependability.
4. Stay True to Yourself
While it’s tempting to “game” the system, personality tests often include questions that check for consistency. The best approach? Be honest, but self-aware. Choose responses that reflect both your natural tendencies and your strengths in a professional setting.
5. Stay Focused and Consistent
Set aside uninterrupted time to take the test. Avoid distractions and take your time. Many tests ask similar questions in different formats to check for inconsistencies. Your goal is to stay focused and answer consistently across the test.
What to Avoid
- Trying to fake your answers – It’s easy to think you should answer in a way that “looks good,” but these tests are built to detect that.
- Ignoring the job role – Even though you’re being honest, be sure your responses align with what’s appropriate for the role.
- Rushing through it – Take your time to read each statement and consider your honest response.
Final Thoughts
Job personality assessments are becoming a standard step in the recruitment process. They help companies find the right people—and help candidates like you land roles where you’ll truly thrive.
Whether you’re taking the Hogan Personality Inventory, DISC, or another test, preparation is key. Understand what’s being measured, reflect on your strengths, and go into it with confidence and clarity.
Looking to get ready for your next personality test? Explore sample assessments, expert tips, and preparation strategies at Next Interview