Work Preference Indicator



The Work Preference Indicator is a scientifically-based instrument that measures an individual's job task preferences. It assesses a person's relative strength or preference with 17 separate measures. These measures encompass three major areas that include: Achievement, Relationship, and Analytic Orientation. The measures were empirically derived, and have been replicated as both valid and reliable in two separate studies with over 1,000 subjects in each study.

Based on the combination of individual scores on these measures, each individual is classed as one of six major types.

Each individual receives feedback that includes both a personalized written report as well as a "scorecard" that compares the individual's scores with the overall GEMS database that represents the larger U.S. population of employees. Approximately 8 pages of individualized interpretive feedback are provided to each individual.

This tool is based on interest theory that interrelates work preference with learning and job performance. People tend to learn better and perform better when they are engaged in doing what interests them. This tool pinpoints and profiles what types of work and work environments an individual tends to like and dislike. It highlights their competitive advantages and aids in the identification of contributions the individual can make to the work environment.

This is an excellent tool to be used for team building, mentoring, and employee development. It can aid in finding the best fit between employee interests and the actual work needing performed. It is a tool used for:

  • Career planning
  • Career pathing
  • Mentoring
  • Cross training
  • Vocational counseling
  • Academic advising
  • Job enlargement
  • Team development
  • Project management
  • Team building
  • Succession planning

Results of this instrument will aid:

Individuals to learn more about the type of work situations that they tend to enjoy and prefer as well as those situations that they would not find attractive.

Work teams to gain greater insight into the work preferences of its members.

Organizations to attract, select, and retain employees who will more likely enjoy their work, perform more effectively, and remain committed to stay with the organization over the long term.

How to get certified to use the tool with your clients or organization:

GEMS licenses, trains, and certifies associates to administer the tool and interpret its results as consultants and trainers. For more information, contact GEMS of Florida by E-mailing your inquiry to info@gilbertems.com or calling (561) 212-2312.

Note: The survey can be taken online or administered in hard copy form to respondents.

Scholarly Contributions Based On This Instrument:

Gilbert, G. R., Sohi, R., and McEachern, A., (2008). Measuring work preferences: A multidimensional tool to enhance career self-management. Career Development International. Vol. 13 (1), 56—78.

Gilbert, G. R;, Sohi, R., Farrow, D. (2007). “Analysis of Work Preferences among Business Majors: Enabling Students to Do Well In Their Careers.” Paper presented at the Academy of Management Annual Conference, Philadelphia, PA, August, 7.

Gilbert, G. R., Phau, I., & Farrow, D. (2006). Analysis of Work Preferences Between Australian and American Business Associates: Implications for Global Managers. Academy of International Business Conference. Beijing, China. June 23.

Gilbert, G. R., McEachern, A. (2006). Analysis of Work Preferences among Professional Specialists: Practical Implications for Global Business Managers. Academy of International Business Conference. Beijing, China. June 22.

Gilbert, G. R., Phau, I., Veloutsou, C., & Parhizgari, A. (2006). "Work Preferences of Marketing Students: A Cross National Study." Paper reviewed and presented at the 35th European Marketing Association Conference. Athens, Greece. May.

Gilbert, G. R. (2004). "An Assessment of Work Preferences by Business Major: Construct Development & Validation," Proceedings: Southwest Academy of Management Conference. Orlando , FL. March 3-6.

Partial List of Clients That Have Used The Work Preference Indicator:

American Public University; Florida International University (College of Business Administration, College of Education, School of Engineering); Curtin University, Perth, Australia, College of Business; University of Southern California; Project Management Institute; U. S. Air Force, U. S. Office of Personnel Management, California Institute of Mental Health, Burger King Corporation; Miami Children’s Hospital;, Vocational Counselor’s Association; City of Brentwood; Miami-Dade County; American Welding Association; U. S. Bureau of Indian Affairs; ARC Manufacturing; Southern California Edison; Sheldon-Jacobs; Telefonica Corporation; Broward Community Bank; APL Logistics; Sierra Health Foundation; and OMEGA Manufacturing; American Military University.

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