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Candidate information
Method
Xiel supports organizations in various areas, such as leadership development, creating effective (agile) teams and assessments. In particular with regard to the latter, we have listed a number of frequently asked questions; however, if there are other questions or if the answer to the questions does not provide sufficient clarity, do not hesitate to contact us. We are happy to assist you; just call us on +31(0)85 3038677 or reach out to us via info@xiel.nl.
Assessment elements
Assessments come in many different forms, but usually an assessment consists of the following components: intellectual capabilities tests (intelligence tests), personality and motivation questionnaires, practical simulation(s) and an interview. At Xiel, the specific question that precedes an assessment determines the exact content. In this context context variables, such as complexity, risk of damage and specific skills play an important role in the composition of the assessment program. At Xiel, an assessment is tailor-made and not 'one size fits all'.
Intellectual capabilities tests are tests that provide insight into the general reasoning capacity of the participant. Research has shown that there is an important 'predictive value' of this fact towards function success. See also "What is the value of an assessment?"
Intellectual capabilities tests are tests that have to be completed within a certain time. Xiel generally works with so-called adaptive capacity tests; this means that the participant receives a more difficult or easier question based on the correct or incorrect answer to the previous question. In this way, a very valid image of intelligence can be built up in a very short time. This part is often completed online; which means that you can do the tests at a moment and place of your choice.
Personality questionnaires are questionnaires that provide insight into stable personal characteristics of the participant. For this the Big5 psychological model is used as a basis. This model identifies five dimensions that are indicated to characterize every personality. The dimensions are: extraversion, altruism, emotional stability, openness of mind and conscientiousness.
Simulations are aimed at gaining insight into the influential repertoire of the participant; which domains of behavior can the participant show to achieve a sustainable result. Often this involves role play with an actor as conversation partner. Simulations can be placed in a negotiation setting, in a commercial setting, as a leader or as an advisor. Different simulations are available for different contexts.
An interview is a personal interview with an assessment consultant. In this in-depth conversation, motivation, behavioral repertoire, qualities and points of attention are discussed. At the same time, the other elements of the assessment are discussed and provided with feedback.
What is the value of an assessment?
An assessment is a combination of instruments to realize a high predictive value with regard to the chance of success in a position or to be able to make informed statements about development and development potential. As more instruments are used, the predictive value generally increases. Naturally, the quality of the instruments is also of great importance. Xiel only works with state-of-the-art validated instruments from, among others, Ixly, Human Insight and Hogan. We would like to refer you to our partner page for more information about these parties. In addition, Xiel only works with highly experienced advisers and actors who are able to analyze thoroughly, based on both conversation and interview skills and analytical insight.
What if I have dyslexia or dyscalculia?
It is known that dyslexia and dyscalculia can have an effect on certain outcomes, particularly of intellectual capabilities tests. At the same time, this influence is difficult to measure accurately. That is why Xiel chooses to compile a customized program for participants who can submit an official statement of dyslexia or dyscalculia.
How are my privacy and my rights guaranteed?
The Personal Data Protection Act rightly sets strict requirements on how organizations should deal with privacy-sensitive information. We are very aware that (partial) assessment outcomes are privacy-sensitive. Therefore your data will be handled very carefully and confidentially. Obviously we follow the law, but we also comply with the professional ethical code of the NIP (Netherlands Institute of Psychologists). This means, among other things, that a report (both oral and written) is always discussed with the participant and is only shared with the (potential) employer by explicit (written) permission of the participant involved. Furthermore, the requirements, guidelines and rules of conduct regarding the work of a psychologist are based on the principles of responsibility, integrity, respect and expertise. This means that we guarantee ethical and ethical treatment with regard to your data. The NIP is the national professional and interest group of psychologists, look for more information on their website (www.psynip.nl).
How to prepare for an assessment?
An important part of an assessment are the intellectual capabilities tests; we advise you to practice these different tests in advance in order to be well prepared. Xiel works with intellectual capabilities tests from Ixly: you can access the Ixly website through the link at the bottom right of this page. When it comes to personality questionnaires, it is important that a relatively quick and spontaneous answer is given. A thorough preparation is not necessary, because there are no right or wrong answers. The outcomes aspire to be a reflection of your personality, usually compared with a target group. In a role play you are generally challenged to ‘get something done from someone else’. This involves the width and depth of your behavioral repertoire. The advice we give upfront is to act like you would do in real life in order to get a good understanding of your natural behavior and also insight in where and how to develop a different, sometimes more effective, approach. In the interview you are generally asked to reflect on yourself. In the preparation you can already think about which aspects you manage very well and need more attention, focus or even requires further development. Furthermore, aspects such as motivation and ambition are often addressed in an interview and you often receive feedback. Our advice is to weigh its value and respond accordingly instead of dealing with it defensively or offensively.
Any other questions?
If you have any other questions, do not hesitate to contact us via info@xiel.nl or via telephone number 085-3038677.
Link to website Ixly
Direct link to website for practicing Intellectual Capabilities test: Ixly