CLERKS
83
%ence. The actual correlation was plus fifty-five (probable
error four hundredths). This indicates that general
nrtelligence or mental flexibility, while not absolutely
necessary for all clerical work, tends on the whole to be
an advantage. It will be remembered that inspectors
to whom similar tests were given did very poor work, thus
mdicating that intelligence of this kind was not at all
necessary in their work. However, in clerical work, where
tasks are frequently changed and where new directions
are often given, a little intelligence will often make it
possible for a clerk to fall into a given routine with much
greater readiness than can a less intelligent clerk. Clerks
lacking in technique may often compensate for their lack
b y superior intelligence.
As a result of this experiment, it was decided to give
these tests, together with others which might be added
from time to time, to all incoming clerks. One of the
hrst candidates to be examined was a young woman who
had recently been interviewed by one of the office heads,
this candidate was so unprepossessing in appearance
that in spite of signs testifying to her intelligence, the office
read was in doubt as to the advisability of hiring her.
; t e therefore asked that the psychological tests be applied.
his was done, and the young woman did remarkably
' Ve ll in every test. She was then hired, and proved her-^
e lf so ready and capable, that it was decided to train
er for the work of an office assistant. In six weeks she
a d mastered the routine of four different kinds of work,
his is a striking instance in which the testimony of the
* ests belied the testimony of observation. As was stated
the letter quoted in the beginning of the chapter, it is
.frost impossible to tell, by merely observing and inter-Vl
ewing a candidate, whether that candidate has the
