l6o EMPLOYMENT PSYCHOLOGY
clumsiness and lack of uniformity when this method is
used than when the matter is left to the discretion of the
various examiners. The questions which must be asked
can then be asked at the conclusion of the tests when the
effects will no longer be of consequence.
Another important factor in the successful giving of
tests is an attitude of assurance on the part of the examiner.
This is particularly true where tests are being
given in shops and offices for experimental purposes.
There is always a possibility that some worker will resent
being tested. An apologetic and conciliatory air on the
part of the examiner will encourage the exhibition of this
hostility if it is latent. An attitude of complete assurance
will cause its repression. The examiner must conduct his
examination as if it were the one important thing in the
world. The response will in most cases be a reflection of
this suggestion. This does not mean, however, that the
examiner should be abrupt or over-confident. An air of
presumption is extremely likely to provoke the very
hostility which the examiner is trying to avoid. In addition
to this, a policy of entire frankness is conducive
to cooperation on the part of those being tested. In the
course of the experiments which have been described, it
was the unfailing practice to make a brief and direct
statement as to the purpose of the tests, and to place this
statement in the hands of all those affected. This was
usually done through the foreman or through some other
member of the shop whose character would vouch for the
motives behind the experiment. When this was not
sufficient and the workers being tested were inclined to
ask for further information, the information was always
given. In fact, some very excellent suggestions from the
workmen were obtained in this way.
