Personality assessment feedback (general)

In this unit, you will learn how to effectively prepare and conduct a personality assessment feedback session, including how to set the scene, build rapport, explain the feedback process, and manage confidentiality. The session also covers responding sensitively to candidates, providing clear explanations, and the importance of gathering supporting evidence for personality profiles. You will be guided in making feedback sessions balanced, interactive, and professional.

After this talk, you will:

• Know how to prepare and use an interim report for a feedback session.

• Understand how to condense your interim report into brief, useful feedback notes.

• Be familiar with the general principles and step-by-step process for running a personality assessment feedback session.

• Recognise the importance of rapport building and why your respondent should feel comfortable and informed at the start of the session.

• Know that feedback sessions should be a two-way conversation, balancing informing with exploring the candidate’s views and examples.

• Understand the importance of clearly explaining the purpose, confidentiality, and time limits of the session to the candidate.

• Learn how to address and explain any concerns a candidate may have about the questionnaire or the assessment process.

• Know how to introduce and explain the main areas of the personality profile (interpersonal, cognitive, and internal styles).

• Be able to explain norm or comparison groups simply and without jargon, justifying any choices that may need clarification.

• Recognise the need to give feedback across the whole profile and gather supporting evidence for your interpretations.

• Be aware of the importance of using tentative language when discussing profile findings and not making absolute statements.

• Understand the need to stay objective, avoid judging, and keep the feedback session focused and professional.

• Appreciate the importance of asking for and gathering specific examples (level three evidence) from the respondent to support and verify their profile.

• Be reminded to take notes, inform the candidate about note-taking, and encourage them to take their own notes if they wish.

• Know the key aspects of maintaining confidentiality and getting informed consent during feedback.

• Recognise the value of using effective communication skills, including non-verbal behaviours and active listening, throughout the session.

• Be prepared to offer advice or suggest further exploration if potential development areas arise, while remaining sensitive and supportive.