Case study 2 material: NM is a manager of a new start-up tech company, and is looking to expand her business. NM is interested in using personality testing to inform a recruitment drive for two new department managers. Managers are responsible for working and thinking strategically, and sometimes making tough decisions, in order to advance a business and get the most out of their team. NM has read about several different psychological trait theories of personality. NM is interested in testing her shortlisted candidates on some or all of the following personality traits, on which she feels it is important that managers score highly: conscientiousness, sensing, extraversion, openness, thinking, emotional stability, tough-mindedness, and self-sufficiency.
Task:
Based on the above case study scenario, you should choose ONE personality theory of your choice that is relevant to the case study. Apply and critically evaluate this theory in relation to the case study scenario. In your answer, you should focus on only some of the traits mentioned in the question, so that you have space to give an in-depth answer. Your critical evaluation should address, for example, the strengths, limitations, advantages, disadvantages, and ethical considerations of your chosen theory, in relation to the case study scenario. You should also critically evaluate the use of personality test/s based on the theory you have chosen as part of recruitment processes – what are the possible strengths and limitations here? You could consider e.g. reliability, validity, and bias. Use research and academic sources throughout to support your answer.
