It’s that time – you’re facing the gauntlet. Actually, you have just arrived at either a staffing company or a potential employer and they’ve asked you to take assessment tests. Relax. They’re the “hiring” squad. It’s an opportunity for them to discover your real value.
Assessments test a great tool. The results help both staffing companies and their clients gain a well-rounded understanding of your skills, experience, and personality. They also provide food for thought that helps them customize their interview conversations and/or questions.
Here are some important points to consider when going in for tests.
Assessment tests are designed to provide validity
This is not the time to lie! Assessment tests have a “built-in” component created to validate your answers. In other words, they are able to detect if your answers are both consistent and honest. Don’t try to decipher what you think the desired answer is – just answer the question honestly. Don’t stress – answer with the truth and move to the next question.
Assessment tests are designed to measure skills
From entry-level to high-level, a skills assessment does exactly what it says: It determines whether you have the necessary skills to fulfill the responsibilities tied to the position. Once again, don’t stress and don’t be try to lie. Just answer the questions honestly and perform the tasks to the best of you ability. Even if it reveals that you don’t have all the skills, it also reveals if you have the potential to learn them. Many times this is sufficient for obtaining favor. Many companies are more than willing to train a new employee if they have the potential – and the right attitude – to learn
Assessment tests measure potential
Speaking of potential, your innate ability to learn, manage, lead, sell, etc. can also be measured. They reveal which areas you are most likely to excel in – where you are most likely to thrive. In fact, sometimes a candidate is offered a different (even higher level) position than the one they were testing for as a result of the test.
Assessment tests measure intelligence
Yes, parts of the test will measure your intelligence, as well as your common sense and reasoning skills. Frankly, it gives provides an evaluation of brainpower, ability to retain knowledge, and the ability to apply your knowledge (in other words – wisdom). Again, this is as good for you as it is for the company. If you are placed in the right area/position for your personality, skills and intelligence, you will be a more productive and happy employee.
Of course, you have the legal right to refuse to take the test. Bear in mind, though, that they have the legal right to pass over anyone who doesn’t take the test. So, relax and consider the test as your “best friend” when it comes to getting a new job. Remember the “golden rule” of assessment tests – be honest. Determine to do your best, of course, but do your best – don’t try to figure out what you think they think is the best!
Assessment tests are another way to help you find a perfect-fit job. Here at Robbins Staffing Solutions, we help make it happen and celebrate with our candidates every time it does. Contact us today and discover all the ways we can help you move forward in your career.
