Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory (HBRI) Test: Examples/Guide/Tips
Jul 23, 2024In a busy job market, it’s important for recruiters to hire the best possible candidate for a job. One of the tools commonly used to evaluate suitability is aptitude testing. If you’ve applied for a new role, it’s possible you will be asked to complete assessments as part of the recruitment process.
One of the most popular choices for aptitude testing by recruiters is the Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory Test (HBRI).
Typically used for marketing, sales and management roles, Hogan HBRI Business Reasoning Inventory testing allows recruiters a snapshot into the suitability of a candidate for a particular role or position within a company. It can also be used to evaluate whether a current employee is a suitable option for promotion within a company.
In this article, you will learn more about the HBRI test, how it’s scored and administered, and ways to prepare. You will also find Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory sample questions and answers to frequently asked questions.
What Is the Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory Test?
The Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory Test is an aptitude test used by recruiters and employers to assess a candidate's suitability for a particular role or promotion.
By asking applicants to complete the HBRI Hogan test, it is possible to quickly and easily see whether an individual has the skills required to do a job effectively.
HBRI tests primarily screen for problem solving and decision making skills, using a range of data-led questions and scenarios.
There are two versions of the Business Reasoning Inventory test candidates might be given. Both will require individuals to answer 24 questions covering three main subjects: verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning and abstract reasoning.
In some cases, applicants will be timed and given 25 minutes to complete the test. In other cases, there is no time limit and most people will complete the test within 30 minutes. The test you will be given will depend entirely on the choice of the employer.
Subjects Covered in the Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory Test
The HBRI test is made up of three main sections: verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, and abstract reasoning.
Questions are designed to assess the skills you currently possess as well as your strengths and weaknesses.
Employers will then use this information to identify individuals who possess the skills they need for a particular role, or those they feel will fit well within their business.
Verbal Reasoning
This style of question will usually involve riddles and puzzles, with candidates required to infer meaning and select the correct answer.
Although it is important to answer questions quickly, make sure to take time to fully understand what is being asked of you.
Key skills for verbal reasoning questions include pattern recognition, interpretation of text, and understanding context.
HBRI Sample Test Questions – Verbal Reasoning
A company's quarterly report highlights a large increase in sales. This was attributed to a new marketing strategy that targeted younger demographics through social media platforms.
The report also mentions that while this approach has increased sales, customer service complaints have risen due to higher demand and slower response times.
Based on the information in the report, which of the following statements is most likely true?
a) The company's new marketing strategy has decreased overall customer satisfaction.
b) The new marketing strategy has been ineffective in increasing sales.
c) The increase in customer service complaints is unrelated to the new marketing strategy.
d) The targeted demographics are more likely to complain about customer service issues.
The correct answer is: a) The company's new marketing strategy has decreased overall customer satisfaction.
The report indicates that the new marketing strategy led to an increase in sales, but also mentions a rise in customer service complaints due to higher demand and slower response times. This suggests that while sales have increased, customer satisfaction may have decreased due to the service issues. Therefore, statement (a) is the most likely true statement based on the given information.
In a recent survey, employees of a tech company expressed a preference for remote work, citing benefits such as increased productivity, better work-life balance, and reduced commuting time. However, the survey also noted that employees felt less connected to their teams and missed the spontaneous collaboration that occurred in the office.
Which of the following conclusions can be drawn from the survey results?
a) Remote work should be discontinued to improve team collaboration.
b) The benefits of remote work outweigh the drawbacks for most employees.
c) Employees are equally satisfied with remote work and office work.
d) The company should ignore the employees' preference for remote work.
The correct answer is: b) The benefits of remote work outweigh the drawbacks for most employees.
The survey highlights that employees see several benefits to remote work, such as increased productivity, better work-life balance, and reduced commuting time. Although there are some drawbacks, such as feeling less connected to their teams, the overall tone of the survey suggests that the benefits are significant and appreciated by the employees. Therefore, the most reasonable conclusion is (b), that the benefits of remote work outweigh the drawbacks for most employees.
Numerical Reasoning
This style of question will usually require candidates to analyze information from graphs, charts and tables. You may also be asked to perform calculations such as percentages and distance.
Key skills for numerical reasoning questions include problem solving, data interpretation, mathematical knowledge, and basic numeracy.
Hogan HBRI Sample Questions – Numerical Reasoning
A manufacturing company produces 4,000 units of a product per month. The cost to produce each unit is $25, and the company sells each unit for $40. The company incurs fixed monthly costs of $30,000.
What is the company's monthly profit?
a) $10,000
b) $30,000
c) $40,000
d) $50,000
The correct answer is: b) $30,000
First, calculate the total revenue:
Next, calculate the total variable costs:
Then, add the fixed costs to the variable costs to find the total costs:
Finally, subtract the total costs from the total revenue to find the profit:
A company’s sales data for the past five months is as follows:
- January: $20,000
- February: $22,000
- March: $25,000
- April: $30,000
- May: $28,000
What is the average monthly sales figure for this period?
a) $23,000
b) $25,000
c) $27,000
d) $29,000
The correct answer is: b) $25,000
To find the average monthly sales, add up the sales figures for each month and then divide by the number of months:
Abstract Reasoning
Usually, candidates will be shown a series of images and required to select the correct option from a range of solutions. This style of question evaluates an individual's ability to recognise patterns and form conclusions from the information provided.
Key skills for abstract reasoning questions include pattern recognition, problem solving, and decision making.
Hogan HBRI Sample Questions – Abstract Reasoning
What is the next shape in the sequence?
The correct answer is: c)
The next shape in the sequence is one with a white center.
Which answer option is also a rotation of the given shapes?
The correct answer is: c)
How the Hogan Test Is Administered
The HBRI test is a computerized assessment, with candidates being given between 25 and 30 minutes to answer 24 questions.
Questions are formatted as multiple-choice, covering three main areas: verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, and abstract reasoning.
Scoring and Results
Once you have completed your test, you will be given a percentage score as well as other information about your results.
This information is usually made available to candidates within 48 hours of taking the Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory test.
The exact score you will be required to achieve can vary depending on the employer and role you have applied for.
Because of this, it’s important to make sure you score as highly as possible. This way, you will stand the best chance of moving to the next stage of the recruitment process.
Interpreting Your Results
Whether you have reached the required mark or not, it’s a good idea to evaluate your results and think about any areas you may need to work on in the future.
The best way to do this is by thoroughly reading the report attached to your results.
The detailed HBRI report will provide you with information about how well you performed in relation to other people who have previously taken the test, as well as more personalized information about your strengths and weaknesses.
You will also find an evaluation as to which type of thinker you are: expedient, contextual, analytical or critical.
All of this information can help you to identify areas where you might wish to improve and strengthen your skills. A continual growth mindset will ensure that you are able to continue progressing through your career, building on skills and experiences and using tools you gain along the way.
How to Prepare for the HBRI Test
It’s important to prepare for any test or assessment as this will help you feel more relaxed and able to perform to the best of your ability.
There are many things you can do to prepare ahead of your HBRI test. Some are simple ideas that will help you to get into the right mindset.
Others, like doing Hogan HBRI assessment sample questions, will help you to brush up on any skills that might be rusty or refresh your mind on a particular concept.
Simple Strategies
There are a number of things you can do at home to help prepare yourself for assessment.
Some of the simpler techniques include practicing basic numerical tasks, making sure you get a good night's sleep ahead of assessment, and practicing mindfulness and breathing techniques to remain calm under pressure.
- Numerical practice – Puzzles like sudoku can be an excellent way of strengthening mathematical skills and building confidence.
- Sleep and nutrition – Never underestimate the importance of a good night's sleep and a healthy breakfast ahead of an exam. Studies have shown that these simple steps can improve recollection and focus.
- Control your anxiety – Nobody likes being tested, but if exams make you really anxious it’s a good idea to practice mindfulness and breathing techniques. If you let your fears get out of hand, it can affect your focus and may impact your ability to perform to the best of your ability.
Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory Practice Tests and Resources
You will find plenty of Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory practice tests and sample Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory questions online, such as the ones at TestHQ.
Some of these might be free Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory practice tests, while other practice packs may need to be purchased.
You may also find Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory pdfs online, which may be helpful.
Taking the time to familiarize yourself with the format of the assessment and the type of Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory questions you might be asked can help to build confidence and highlight any areas that might require further revision and practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does HBRI stand for?
HBRI is an abbreviation used for the Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory Test. This is one of the most commonly used aptitude tests for recruiters and employers.
Is the Business Reasoning Inventory test easy to pass?
The passing score you will be required to achieve will vary depending on the role and employer. So it’s vital to prepare ahead of assessment and perform to the best of your ability. You can do this by taking paid for or free Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory tests.
How many questions are on the Business Reasoning Inventory exam?
No matter which version of the HBRI test you take, there will be 24 questions in total. One version will have a time limit, while the other is untimed. The version you take will be at the discretion of your potential employer.
Can I retake the HBRI if I fail?
In most cases, the answer will be no. HBRI testing is used to help guide employers into hiring the best possible candidates for a role. If you don’t meet the requirements through testing, this will usually be the end of your application process.
Where can I find a guide and sample questions for the Business Reasoning Inventory test?
Paid for or free Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory practice tests can be found on test preparation websites, such as TestHQ, educational platforms, and books available on Amazon.
What are the requirements to be eligible for the Business Reasoning Inventory test?
Eligibility requirements vary by organization, but typically include being a candidate for a business-related role or program.
How can I pass the Business Reasoning Inventory test?
Practice critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills using study guides and Hogan HBRI practice tests. Understand the test format.
Where can I prepare for the Business Reasoning Inventory test?
Prepare using online resources, study guides, Hogan HBRI practice tests, and educational websites specializing in test preparation. You can find Hogan HBRI assessment sample questions on TestHQ.
How much time is given to take the Business Reasoning Inventory test?
The time allotted for the Business Reasoning Inventory test varies, but it typically ranges from 30 to 60 minutes.
When can I try again if I fail the Business Reasoning Inventory test the first time?
Retake policies vary by organization, but you usually can retake the test after a waiting period specified by the test administrator.
How much does it cost to take the Business Reasoning Inventory test?
The cost of the Business Reasoning Inventory test varies; check with the administering organization or institution for specific pricing. If you’re taking it as part of an interview, the employer will usually cover the cost of the test.
Where can I find an online coach for passing the Business Reasoning Inventory test?
Online coaching can be found on tutoring platforms like Wyzant, Tutor.com, and through test preparation services.
What is the Business Reasoning Inventory test meant to assess?
The test assesses critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills relevant to business decision-making and reasoning.
What is the Business Reasoning Inventory test?
The Business Reasoning Inventory test evaluates candidates' analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills for business contexts.
Final Thoughts
If you have applied for your dream job or promotion, it’s possible you will be asked to complete HMRI assessments as part of the application and interview process.
While it’s never nice to take tests, making sure you’re as prepared as possible can help you to perform to the best of your ability and improve your chances of achieving the required score. Practice tests will help to familairise you with the test format and question style, while mindfulness techniques will enable you to feel calm and relaxed.
However you choose to prepare for your Hogan Business Reasoning Inventory Test, knowing what to expect will allow you to feel confident that you’ve done your very best, no matter what the results might be.
