Construct-oriented biodata development for selection to a differentiated performance domain

This study describes the development of a multidimensional biodata form whi ch used explicit constructs to guide item generation and rational scale dev elopment, construct validation, criterion measurement and empirical keying. These constructs were goal-orientation, teamwork, customer service, resour cefulness, learning ability and leadership. Exploratory and confirmatory fa ctor analyses in both applicant and incumbent samples were used to identify and test the model which included the thirteen, more differentiated ration al scales relating to these six, broader constructs. Empirical keying of th e rationally developed scales was conducted against criterion construct sca les conceptually related to each predictor construct. Empirical keying at t he item level was found to result in higher validities and cross-validities than either empirical keying at the scale level, or rational keying. The i tem keyed instrument also demonstrated incremental validity over a test of cognitive ability for specific work performance domains as well as overall work performance.