India Inc keen to tap into advanced psychometrics

Psychometric assessment identifies specific personality trait that could highlight suitability for specific roles

Recognised benefits of psychometrics largely remain unrealised in India as almost half the companies acknowledge not using it and as many as one in three has never explored it, but things are changing for the better, according to a study.

Psychometric assessment is the science of applied psychology, which is intended to identify specific personality trait that could highlight suitability for specific roles.

Psychometrics is primarily used for recruitment and selection in India. Application for talent assessment and development was around 50 per cent for most management levels, but at entry level, it stood at a mere 7 per cent.

"Psychometrics, as a science, is yet to be fully explored and leveraged in India. In an increasingly competitive world, only traditional methods such as interviews or aptitude tests may not be enough," said Shatrunjay Krishna, Director - Rewards, Talent and Communication, Willis Towers Watson, which conducted the study.

It further noted that despite succession planning being a key stated challenge for companies in India, the application of psychometrics in addressing this is low, with only 28 per cent using it at senior management and 13 per cent for middle management.

As per the findings by the global advisory, broking and solutions company, only 9 per cent of companies are unwilling to explore the new tool, indicating keenness among the vast majority (91 per cent) to leverage advanced psychometrics.

"Investment in training and developing a cadre of psychometric practitioners would lead to organisations understanding its impact on the talent cycle, which in turn will lead to a wider acceptance and right selection of instruments," Krishna said.

Interestingly, more Indian domestic organisations use psychometrics compared with MNCs.

Willis Towers Watson polled close to 100 of India's top organisations and HR leaders across sectors during March to June this year to explore levels of awareness, acceptance and application of psychometric assessments in the country and further examine how this is likely to evolve.