National Museum of Australia
Psychological testing for employment as Visitor Services Host positions
Situation
The National Museum of Australia sought to recruit and appoint a large number of permanent staff for their Visitor Services Host positions.
Solution
The selection process we developed included an innovative combination of assessment centre tasks including a presentation task requiring the interpretation of an exhibit, a test of auditory memory to assess the ability of Hosts to remember the details of exhibitions, a test of visual memory to assess the ability of Hosts to remember visitors' and sponsors' faces and their details, a psychological test to assess interpersonal skills and a behavioural background interview.
Outcome
In addition to the appointments made immediately, an order of merit listing of an additional 30 people to fill future Host vacancies was established. At the conclusion of our work the Museum said it intended to repeat the bulk process each year.
Probably the best feedback on results came from a visitor to the Museum called Amity, aged 19, who said on a Museum feedback form "My favourite thing in the Museum is the Hosts because they are very lovely people and very helpful!"