For recruiters and HR departments, pre-hiring tests are necessary tools that help make the hiring process more efficient and effective. Back in the day, pre-hiring tests were nothing more than basic quizzes or assessments administered in person or via mail, focusing primarily on general knowledge or basic skills relevant to the job — they usually took no more than 15 to 20 minutes too.
Nowadays, companies are requiring more extensive tests to further verify competency. According to a survey, 40% of HR departments plan to increase the pre-hire tests they expect candidates to take when interviewing for a new job.
With fewer job openings and increased competition in the job market, acing a pre-hiring test sometimes becomes crucial to ensure that your application remains in consideration. Here are three things that you should know about pre-hiring tests.
1. Understand the Test Type
It’s crucial to know the kind of pre-hiring test that you’ll be taking ahead of time so that you can prepare for it effectively. Recruiters often detail the test in writing to give you an idea of what to expect and how long it’s going to take. The most popular pre-hiring tests include cognitive ability tests, personality tests, and skills assessments tailored to the job role.
2. Practice Makes Perfect
If you get nervous during exams, you're not alone. Skills-based hiring tests can cause anxiety in many candidates. Consider seeking out practice tests to ease some of these nerves, especially for skills-based assessments like coding challenges or technical exams. Practice can significantly improve your performance and alleviate anxiety.
3. Evaluate Test Length
While pre-hiring tests are critical for companies to ensure they hire the best candidates, some tests can be lengthy and burdensome for applicants. It's essential to consider the context of the test. For more senior positions, expect a more thorough hiring process. However, if you're applying for junior roles and faced with excessive assessments, trust your instincts and consider the time and effort required.
Pre-hiring tests play a vital role in the hiring process, providing valuable insights for employers. However, candidates should be mindful of the test type, practice where necessary, and evaluate the test length to make informed decisions about the opportunities they pursue. Rooting for your success!
