Many companies take candidates for an assessment test as part of the hiring process. These tests are usually designed to assess a candidate's personality and compatibility with the position to be filled. In some cases, parts of the test assess skills such as math, grammar, and the ability to use a specific program. Ask your examiner in advance about the main topics of the test; this way you can get ready in time!
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Do a Personality Assessment
Step 1. Ask the examiner to give you an idea of what awaits you
Since these tests reveal personality traits, there are no "right" answers. However, the examiner should be able to point you to the basic concepts you will need to address in the course of the assessment. You can ask him:
- "Can I do anything to prepare for the test?"
- "What kind of topics does the exam cover?"
Step 2. Do internet personality tests to prepare yourself
Look for the Myers-Briggs tests and complete a few. Answer the questions truthfully to get accurate results. Thanks to these practice exams, you will know what kind of questions to expect.
- Personality tests are usually used to assess how outgoing, rational and emotional you are, as well as analyzing other qualities. Employers use them as a basis for evaluating your personal qualities, for example if you are a sociable or closed type.
- Practice tests can help you identify your personality traits that you can improve on to be more likely to get the spot. For example, if it's a job where customer interactions are important, you can work to become more outgoing.
Step 3. Respond in order to demonstrate that you are suitable for the job
Think about the qualities the employer told you to look for in the ad when you respond. If you want very ambitious staff, don't give answers that make you seem content. If he prefers employees who are very attentive to detail, make sure your answers are consistent and meticulous.
Don't be modest when answering questions about yourself, but also make sure you don't lie
Step 4. Answer the questions consistently
Assessment tests often ask similar questions over and over, using slightly different terms. If you answer those questions inconsistently, the employer will consider it a bad sign. It may assume that you are lying or you are not a constant person.
For example, if you say in one answer that you are extroverted and in another you say you prefer to spend time alone, that is an inconsistency
Step 5. Choose answers that show your ethics and positivity
Assessment tests often ask you if you are sincere, confident and optimistic. If you portray yourself as a negative or a liar, employers will likely lose interest in you.
For example, language assessment tests often ask if you think it's normal to steal items at work. You should always answer "no" to questions of that type. Saying "yes" could make you sound cynical or someone who steals often
Step 6. Give answers that show that you work well with others
Usually those who can't work in a team perform poorly at work and rarely make a career. If you portray yourself as too introverted or difficult to get along with, employers may see you as unsuitable for their company.
When asked if you are outgoing, courteous, flexible, and so on, answer in the affirmative as often as you can
Step 7. Choose answers that show you are balanced
Employers want to make sure you are able to handle stress and control your temper. Never indicate in your answers that you think it is normal to get angry with colleagues or superiors. Likewise, give responses that indicate that you don't feel overwhelmed by deadlines or the need to do multiple tasks at the same time. This way you will let your employer know that you are a calm and balanced worker.
Method 2 of 2: Pass a Skills Test
Step 1. Ask the examiner which skills are assessed by the test
Depending on the position to be filled, one or more of your skills will be tested. Write a short, courteous email asking for an explanation of the exam. For example, you can say:
I'm writing to ask you some in-depth questions about the assessment test. Specifically, how does the test take place and what topics does it cover? Thank you for your help
Step 2. Take practice tests on spelling, grammar and math if needed
These are the skills that are most commonly tested by assessment exams. However, ask the examiner first to make sure the evidence is on those topics. In some cases, you will find practice tests on the websites of employment agencies. For skills like math, you can look for quiz books at the library or bookstore.
Use the test scores as a guide to the skills you need to train more before the actual exam
Step 3. Review the math knowledge on which the test is based
Practice solving simple math problems at least once a day until the exam date. If you need to improve your skills more quickly, study for more hours or ask a friend who is an expert on the subject for help. When you make mistakes in practice problems, make sure you understand why you are wrong.
Focus on studying the math skills required by the position you are applying for. For example, if you want to work as an architect, you will need to be able to calculate dimensions
Step 4. Improve your writing skills if necessary
Practice grammar, spelling, and computer writing. Work on these skills at least an hour a day or longer if needed. Show your work to an expert, asking him how you can improve and what skills you need to develop.
Step 5. Become more proficient in using the program required by the job
If proficiency in using specific software is required in your ad, you may need to demonstrate your skills during the test. For example, if you need to know how to use Excel to get the job you are interested in, you may need to perform some simple actions in the exam using the program.
- If you need to hone your skills with a program before the test, do some practice exercises so that you feel more confident on the day of the actual assessment.
- Look for guides on the internet if you need to refresh your memory on the program.
Step 6. Create a positive testing environment
If you're taking the exam at home, avoid distractions, such as keeping the TV on. Just focus on the proof. On the other hand, if you are going to the office, bring a bottle of water and everything you need to feel comfortable.
Step 7. Stay calm while answering questions
Take a couple of deep breaths if you find yourself feeling stressed. If you can't think of an answer, try re-reading the question after you've finished the rest of the test. Try not to worry about whether or not you will get the job and instead focus on answering each question in the best way possible.
Step 8. Read the questions carefully
Don't limit yourself to just one glance and make sure you understand them perfectly. If a question confuses you, read it again. If after reading it a couple of times you still have doubts, answer as best you can and try again later if you have time.
