Employment Test

Many jobs may require an employment test as part of the application process. This is more common in some industries than others, but if you are job hunting an employment test can add additional stress over and above the interview. However, if you can’t pass the employment test, you won’t get the interview.

Most companies that require an employment test will require the test after they have approved an application, but before the interview. This avoids the cost of administering the test to unqualified applicants and also avoids wasting people’s time. A company will typically advertise an open position, or a call for resumes, and then place a deadline to apply with the position. Then they make a selection of applicants to call for the employment test.

If you are called to take an employment test, and you didn’t lie on your resume, then be assured that you will likely be tested on topics or subjects you are already familiar with. Common employment tests include math tests, typing tests, software proficiency tests, and industry specific tests. An employment test might be written, practical, or a combination of both.

When you appear for your scheduled test, be sure you are prepared. Check with the company’s HR contact to be sure that you know what to bring with you on the test day. You may be required to provide certain documentation such as driver’s license, degree, or certifications. Further, you may be required to have a pencil, a calculator, or a tool of some sort. Preparedness is the first step to success.

Unless the test is timed, take a sufficient amount of time to complete it. Think through each question or part of the test to be sure you understand what is being asked, but be weary of taking too much time and talking yourself out of what you know to be a right answer. If there are several applicants taking the test with you at the same time, try to focus only on your test and what you know. If possible, place yourself away from any distractions so that you can properly concentrate on the test.

Be thorough, confident, and prepared and you should have no trouble passing an employment test. Remember that it was your experience listed on your application or resume that got you to the test and that’s one step closer to the interview. Once the test is out of the way, be sure to check with the administrator regarding how long it will take for the results and whether or not you will be contacted regardless of your score or performance. Then, congratulate yourself for a job well done.