Short Answer: The Strong Interest Inventory measures individual interests using different scales.
Using an extensive database built on reams of research that has been thoroughly constructed since the 1920s, the Strong Inventory Test helps measure different areas of individual interests through a series of questions. The questionnaires use the Likert Scale, ranging from Strongly Like to Strong Dislike, to demonstrate the level of interest of the test takers in a broad scope of activities, tasks, subject areas, occupations, leisure activities, as well as their characteristics.
Results are divided into four sections: General Occupational Themes, Basic Interest Scales, Occupational Scales, and Personal Style Scales. Each section provides specific feedback that can guide individuals in their pursuits of satisfying careers, academic programs, and leisure activities—all centered on individual interests.
TAKE THE STRONG INTEREST INVENTORY NOW!
What Does Each Strong Inventory Test Scale Measure?
1. General Occupational Themes (GOTs)
What it Measures: The General Occupational Themes (GOTs) gauge patterns of interests that mirror the fundamental aspects of your personality—your core identity and values—what drives you and what matters most to you in life. The GOTs encompass six primary themes based on John Holland’s RIASEC Hexagon Model or the Holland Codes— Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional (RIASEC). Each person may exhibit one to three theme codes.
• Realistic Theme
• Investigative Theme
• Artistic Theme
• Social Theme
• Enterprising Theme
• Conventional Theme
The GOT offers insights into the types of work settings and tasks that prove satisfying for individuals by assessing their inclinations in these six theme codes. By understanding where their interests lie among these categories, the examiners can identify the professions that match their personality and preferences. For instance, if you scored highest in the Artistic category, you might find joy in roles within creative fields such as writing, performing arts, or graphic design. If you scored high in the Conventional theme, it may be worth exploring career opportunities in fields such as finance, data management, or administrative work.
2. Basic Interest Scales (BISs)
The Basic Interest Scales (BIS) delve into your preferences on a deeper level compared to the General Occupational Themes (GOT). While the GOT offers a perspective of your interests, the BIS segments them into more detailed categories that mirror your distinct interest profile.
There are 30 Basic Interest Scales in the Strong Interest Inventory Profile and 32 Basic Interest Scales in the Strong 244 Profile. For instance, Basic Interest Scales related to arts or music may fall under the Artistic Theme Code; while those associated with outdoor work or mechanical activities could be grouped under the Realistic theme alongside scales pertaining to sports and physical activities.
Examples of BISs:
- Mechanics & Construction (Realistic Theme)
- Science (Investigative Theme)
- Visual Arts & Design (Artistic Theme)
- Counseling & Helping (Social Theme)
- Marketing & Advertising (Enterprising Theme)
- Office Management (Conventional Theme)
BISs provide more detailed guidance about specific careers or hobbies that appeal to the individual based not only on their likes but also on the things they dislike. With the insight from the BIS, you not only have an understanding of which specific career you want to explore, but you will also have an idea of which industry and field of study you should consider. For example, if you scored Very High in Law and High in Finance & Investing, you could pursue Corporate Law. However, if you score Low in Finance & Investing, but High in Protective Services, Criminal Law might be a better option.
3. Occupational Scales (OSs)
The Occupational Scales (OS), unlike the General Occupational Themes (GOT) and Basic Interest Scales (BIS) measure interests in a personalized and specific manner by comparing your interest patterns with those who are of the same gender as you and are known to be happy and successful in specific careers. The OS includes 130 job categories in the standard Strong Interest Inventory Profile and 243, in the Strong 244 Profile.
Each Occupational Scale represents a distinct career path or role, and your scores on these scales reflect the degree to which your interests align with those already working in those occupations.
Examples of OSs:
Software Developer: Successful software developers often find happiness in tackling problem-solving and puzzles while engaging with technology and writing code to create solutions.
Marketing Manager: These are individuals who share the passions of marketing professionals – encompassing creativity, strategic acumen, and effective communication skills.
The OSs use your interest patterns to match you with jobs that align with the interests of those who are currently satisfied in their profession. A high score on a particular Occupational Scale suggests that you might find satisfaction and success in that career, as your interests are similar to those of people already thriving in that field. This makes the OSs an excellent tool for exploring new career options, validating current career choices, or considering career changes. Additionally, in your Strong Inventory Test report/results, your top 10 Strong OS Occupations are hyperlinked to the United States Department of Labor O*NET database, which can help you gain more insight into job descriptions and other pertinent information.
4. Personal Style Scales (PSSs)
The Personal Style Scales (PSSs) are a very straightforward section of the Strong Interest Inventory report. It uses no high- or low-scoring system. This section offers an assessment of your preferences in the workplace and your approach to work-life. It assesses personal preferences that influence how you interact with others, how you like to work, and what conditions help you thrive professionally. Your results can fall on the right or left side of the spectrum, or in the midrange.
The Personal Style Scales cover five sections:
• Work Style
• Learning Style
• Leadership Style
• Risk-Taking
• Team-Orientation
Knowing how your Personal Style Scales results can influence how content you are with your job and how productive you feel is crucial for career success and happiness at work. For example, if you enjoy working on your own and prefer independence in your tasks at work but find yourself in a job that demands collaboration on a daily basis, this might leave you feeling frustrated or exhausted. On the other hand, if you thrive in an environment where teamwork is encouraged and flourish through interactions with colleagues, seeking roles that allow for cooperative projects and communication will most likely bring you more fulfillment in your career journey. Using Personal Style Scales can also help with self-awareness and personal growth. You can use your understanding of your inclinations to make better decisions about your career direction and select work settings that match your preferences.