Pre-Employment Testing

More and more employers test job applicants before hiring. Employers like tests because they screen out "undesirable" candidates. Some tests reveal whether you really have the skills you say you do. Others try to show whether you will fit in with the culture of the organization. Still others indicate whether you are fit for the job.

You do not have to take tests — you always have a choice. If you refuse, you may not get that particular job but you may decide you don't want to work there anyway. If you do take a test, just do your best and relax. What will be, will be.

Types of Tests

There are many different types of tests. For some, you can prepare in advance; for most you can't.

• Knowledge / proficiency: you may be asked to complete an actual task, e.g., a typing test
  
  
• Literacy: you may take a reading or math test
  
  
• Personality: you may be asked about your personal preferences, e.g., the Myers-Briggs assessment
  
  
• Honesty and integrity: you may be asked to take a written test that inquires about your trustworthiness and honesty
  
  
• Physical ability: you may be asked to demonstrate strength and / or flexibility if the job demands it
  
  
• Mental ability / aptitude: you may be asked to take an intelligence (I.Q.) test, which employers may use to predict your learning ability
  
  
• Medical: you may be asked to see a doctor to assess your physical fitness
  
  
• Drug: you may be asked for a urine sample to test for drugs in your system
  
  
• Background check: the company may review your criminal record, driving record and credit history, with or without your knowledge (although they must tell you if they hire an outside firm to do the check)
  

Tips for Written Tests

When it comes to written tests, you can improve your outcomes by following these suggestions:

• Get a good night's rest beforehand.
  
  
• Read the directions carefully!
  
  
• Ask if it's to your advantage to guess.
  
  
• Save the difficult questions for the end, especially if the test is timed.

The Unspoken Test

Some tests are unspoken and subtle, focusing on your energy level or decision-making strategies.

One grocery store manager, for instance, would make stocker applicants run the gauntlet. He would meet them in one location and then BRISKLY walk through the store to his office.

If applicants didn't keep up with him and show some energy, they lost the job before the formal interview began. As he explained, "The job is fast-paced and requires high energy. If applicants aren't "up" at the job interview, they're not going to last."

The solution? Show energy and enthusiasm at all times!