By presenting technical problems, or aptitude tests, at the job interview, employers can further assure that the candidate is wholly capable of the job at hand. What exactly is the probability of this happening to any given applicant, and how does it work? For the scoop, read on.
Aptitude Test Frequency
There is truly no way of determining the frequency with which an applicant will be presented with aptitude tests through their job interview process. The decision to include such tests at interview time is up to each employer and the hiring personnel for that employer. Some job roles do, however, present applicants with aptitude tests more frequently than others.
Many technical roles are contingent on applicants passing some form of aptitude testing before the hire. Building maintenance technicians, automotive technicians, plumbers, and other professionals in such technical trades encounter these tests at hire more often than many, other positions. This is because employers find testing prospects through simulated situations to give the best glimpse into how capable that person is in the technical capacity.
Positions that require lots of typing often can be seen requiring applicants to pass a typing test at the interview. Likewise, many technical support roles will require the applicant to role-play various work scenarios. There is no way to be sure of the likelihood of aptitude testing, but in general, if there is a practical way to test and that testing is thought to help understand applicants better, one might best be served by expecting testing. Entry-level jobs, however, are often an exception, as the employer already understands and expects to hire someone who is not yet proficient in the role ahead.
The Job Website Effect
In today’s world of online applications and job postings, numerous job websites have begun helping to facilitate online aptitude tests. This began with the popular job search site Indeed standardizing a system that employers can use to post aptitude tests to their job listings. With this system and without further employer involvement, the site can then automatically dispense the test to applicants at the time of their application. Results are then transmitted to the employer. Because of this new wave of easily setup aptitude tests, job seekers can expect a higher probability of testing than at any time before.
Two Kinds of Aptitude Checks
Aptitude tests generally fall into at least one of two categories: physical tests and media-based tests. A physical aptitude test might have a plumbing company, for example, require a job candidate to physically solder an entire pipe run in person. On the other hand, that same company could also facilitate a similar, media-based test that simulates that very same solder process but in virtual or written form. So, while the candidate may not be able to predict if they will encounter such testing, they can at least be aware of the two kinds of testing categories and how that may then potentially look at test time should they be tested.
Prep Tips
Having the right knowledge and the practice of it are truly the best ways to be prepared for any, potential aptitude test. Consider the job at hand and what some scenarios may look like therein that the employer may want to test out on you. Also, it can be good to consider the addition of some odd or emergency event twist being thrown into the test scenario. Some employers will add these stressors to see additionally how well the applicant can handle the job, even in extraordinary circumstances.
Aside from being prepared for any aptitude tests ahead, it’s good to also not lose focus of doing well with the rest of the interview process. There are plenty of great tips out there, and the official job sites Monster and Indeed offer some great articles on this very subject. Among some of the best job interview tips offered by the pros are for the applicant to be aware of nonverbal communication, to speak concisely without too much additional filler, and to be respectful and not cocky or overly assertive.
When it comes to acing today’s job interview, there are several factors to be aware of and prepared for. One of these is the potential for the job aptitude test which can be a simple technical problem or even a whole battery of additional testing. Be prepared for the interview and any tests, be armed with adequate knowledge of the role and its responsibilities, and you’ve now given yourself the best chance at ultimate employment success.
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