In general, assessments that are viewed more favorably are those that candidates perceive
as more relevant to the job. Because work samples, job knowledge tests and assessment
centers mirror actual activities and knowledge areas that are required to perform the job,
they tend to be viewed more positively by job candidates than multiple-choice tests that
seem abstract and bear little, if any, obvious resemblance to work requirements. More
specifically, job-relevant assessments are viewed more favorably than cognitive ability
assessments, which, in turn, are viewed more favorably than personality inventories,
integrity tests and biographical data inventories.50 Although there is no research on
applicant reactions to physical ability tests, it is reasonable to expect that reactions
would be fairly favorable, especially for those assessments that mirror actual job tasks.