Pre-employment Testing Types of Pre-employment Tests
Introductions and Icebreakers Many believe the interview begins with the initial handshake. The interviewer extends a hand and says, “Hello, I’m Jane Employer. Have a seat.” You say, “Thank you,” and sit. The interviewer may ask a simple ice breaker question, such as “Did you have any trouble finding the place?” or “What is the weather like?” These are just simple questions; do not make more out of them than is intended. Giving a polite response and smiling will add to a good impression. One candidate lost a job at this point when he began complaining about the heavy traffic getting to the interview. Expect to spend some time developing rapport. Do not jump right in and get down to business; follow the lead of the interviewer. Whatever time you invest will be repaid tenfold since personal chemistry is a main ingredient in the hiring process. If the interviewer likes you, the rest of the interview will go well. At this point, the focus of the interview moves on to the question and answer portion. Although providing complete and truthful answers to the questions is your goal in order to secure a job offer, other factors, such as body language, also contribute to the final decision of selecting the right candidate. Body Language Posture—standing and sitting . Correct posture gives the impression of confidence and attentiveness. When standing, your back should be straightly aligned and your chin parallel to the floor. When seated, keep your shoulders back and head straight. Unbuttoning your jacket when sitting (if you are wearing one) will enable you to feel more comfortable. Legs should be together; however, you may cross your ankles. Hands . Lay your hands loosely on the arms of your chair or in your lap rather than clasping them together. Avoid fidgeting, making excessive hand gestures or crossing your arms. Eye contact . Maintain eye contact with the person asking the questions. If it is a team/panel interview, make eye contact with the person who asked the question but also look to each individual as you are responding. Smile . It is important to smile during an interview. A warm smile conveys confidence,
As the name implies, pre-employment tests are given to job candidates during the hiring process. Whether they are computer-based or written, there are two broad categories of pre-employment tests: aptitude tests and personality tests. Aptitude Tests Aptitude tests measure how well job applicants can perform a specific task related to the job. For example, a student applying for a job as a computer programmer may be asked to create a specific program using C++ in a UNIX system, or a student applying for a job in publishing might be asked to read and correct a sample manuscript. An administrative assistant might be asked to take a timed typing test. Sometimes, the applicant will be asked to complete the task at the place of employment under time constraints. Personality Tests Possessing the knowledge and skills required to do a job does not guarantee that you will be a good employee. You must be able to work well with fellow employees and with your supervisors and managers. With this in mind, employers often give potential employees personality tests to see how well they will fit within their corporate culture. These tests attempt to measure a variety of personality factors, ranging from how you manage your time and your daily activities to how well you follow orders or collaborate with others. You may be asked to complete computerized personality tests during the application process. The Interview Sequence All interviews are unique and are conducted by people with varying objectives. However, there is a flow to an interview. Not all interviews will follow this sequence; however, many will, and understanding the order will enable you to feel more comfortable during the meeting. If you are seated when the interviewer greets you, stand and offer a firm handshake while you introduce yourself. This is your opportunity to begin developing rapport with the interviewer. Once you are in the interview space, wait to sit until you are invited to do so. When sitting, place your bag on the floor so it does not become an obstruction between you and the interviewer. This is the time to ask the interviewer if he/she needs a copy of your resume.
CCAC Job Search Manual 51
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online