Three things you ought to know about Skill Testing

Applying for jobs has never been an easy task. Firstly, there’s the search-and-discover phase. Then there are the application forms and CVs to send off, not to mention the prospect you’ll never hear back. Now, you can add skills testing into the mix. Two words that strike fear into the hearts of many a job applicant.

But hang on. Skills testing may be viewed as beneficial for employers, but they are just as beneficial for applicants. We look at three ways you can take advantage of these tests to help steer you towards the right job for your skillset, experience, and personality.

1: skill testing can save you time

When you apply for a job, you’re applying based on the scant information contained within the job advert. In many cases, this can be sparse. Since we spend a third of our lives at work (never mind the travel time added on), most of us would agree we’d like to spend our time doing work we enjoy.

Ideally, you should tailor your CV to suit the job you are applying for. You should also do some research into that business, so you are aware of its values and direction. Even then, you may not know whether you are a good fit until you reach the interview stage.

Skills testing helps filter out those who are unsuitable for the role they are applying for. It could be they are not suitably qualified or do not have the personality the employer is looking for. If you are not selected for interview following the tests, you can assume you’ve saved time. Perhaps that role was not best suited to you after all.

2: skill testing can focus on three separate areas

Depending on the employer, you may be required to take one or more of these tests:

• Aptitude tests based on numerical and verbal reasoning
• Core skills tests to suit the role you are applying for
• Vocational tests to identify the required skills for your industry

These tests are an opportunity to see if you do have the skills and abilities you would need if you got the job. If you fail, you can move on to your next job application. That’s far better than being given a role you are unsuited to and wasting time in a job you dislike.

3: skill testing can help you prepare for an interview

Skills testing usually takes place prior to the interview stage. Therefore, if you get through the tests you are required to take, you know you have the skills the employer is looking for. This should give you confidence for the interview that is still to come. Chances are, you have already surpassed many others who have applied for the same position as you.

Before you attend the interview, think about the tests you completed:

• Which areas were focused on?
• Which responses did you give?
• What did the employer seem to be looking for in those tests?

By examining your performance, you can gain a better idea of how to ace your interview as well. You may not be able to prepare for skills-based tests, but those tests can provide additional ammunition to help you sail through the interview itself.

For further information

You can practice a number of different employment tests here.

Skillsarena has developed skills-based testing used by employers in all areas and industries. You can learn more about the various tests we provide by exploring our website. If you are looking to hire staff and you are interested in using skills tests to help find the right people, call us now on +44 (0)203 693 2201. Alternatively, you can email our team.