ABSTRACT

Mental abilities are variations on a theme of what is now commonly referred to as IQ. These contributions are invariably assessed by those qualified to use psychometric tests. Studies of twins and adopted children, mainly from the developed world, have revealed that around 50 per cent of the differences in IQ scores come from what we have inherited from our parents. As with mental abilities, assessing personality traits accurately requires the services of a qualified tester using adequately validated tests. Such validation requires the demonstration of a statistically significant link with job performance criteria, preferably published in a peer-reviewed journal. Job competences are the tasks at which the average performer is expected to be competent and form the basis of National Vocational Qualifications. Overall performance requires little explanation; it is the term frequently used when bosses and colleagues are asked to make a judgement on the job holder's overall contribution to the organisation over the period under review.