Aptitude tests and analysis
To be sure that the right person will be hired it’s increasingly common to supplement interviews with psychological tests, so-called aptitude tests.
Today, many tests are conducted digitally and often already in an early stage of the recruitment process, especially at larger and international employers.
What do aptitude tests measure?
With the help of tests, the aim is to assess, for example, the applicants' analytical and numerical abilities, logical thinking, personality and work style, decision-making in work-related situations, cooperation skills, and professional behavior. Tests are often conducted under time pressure. The results of the tests are often used to determine who will be invited to personal in-depth interviews.
How do you prepare yourself?
You can prepare yourself by considering the following things:
- practice sample tests (especially numerical and logical). Preparing for the test can be likened to preparing for a job interview. For example, you can try these organizations' tests for free online: Talogy, Aon, and SHL.
- familiarize yourself with time pressure and the test format
- ensure that you have a calm testing environment
- get proper sleep and stay focused. Applicants who manage to show interest throughout a full, often very long test demonstrate good endurance and the ability to work under stress. You prepare best for a test by having a good night's sleep and giving honest answers.
- Remember that you are being tested precisely for the job you have applied for! Try to highlight qualities that are sought in the future employee, but do not exaggerate; instead, try to give a natural impression. They are testing your 'professional self.'
- Do not try to "bluff or answer tactically" in the test. Do not answer the questions the way you think the employer or consultant wants you to answer. Be yourself - answer honestly. Trying to "bluff" tests and analyses always ends with a poor result.
If you are not selected this time, take the entire application process with tests and interviews as a valuable experience and practice! You have the right to receive feedback on your test - written or oral. Ask for feedback - you might learn something that will be useful in your job search and career choice.