You have passed all the stages of selection, and you are now facing an assessment test. This is your potential employer’s opportunity to see you react or be in action. You will be hit with different activities to double check your suitability for the job.
Often scary to think about, these assessment tests are actually easy to handle if you get ready in advance. Here are some useful tips.
Know the role
Your qualities and abilities will be measured along with your skills, based on the job role. You need to find the key requirements for the role and outline them, and insist on them.
If not sure, go through the job description again. Also, go through the company’s core values, why it stands out and how it intends to advance.
Knowing the role will also prepare you for the next important tip…
Get ready in advance
You need to make a list of all potential questions and challenges that could occur. Then, expand the list with even more of them, even if they are not 100% relevant. You need to be ready for any potential situation. It’s important to keep in mind that depending on the position you are applying for, you will have to take different tests. For example, it’s essential to practice the PICAT test if you want to start a career in the military.
The invitation to such a test will normally outline some of the tasks you may have to complete, but you can also try to find out more online by searching employment discussion boards and forums. If there are skill assessments, for instance, take all the practice tests you can in advance.
Be proactive
It is easy to get lost in the crowd if you are just sitting there doing tasks without showing a proactive approach. Candidates stand out when they throw themselves into the experience. Show a leading attitude as well and always be enthusiastic. Network with others and be social.
This is not everything though, as you still need to do well on the tests.
The first impression counts
Just like during the interview, you need to make a great first impression. Dress according to the code. If you are not sure, get in touch with the HR department.
You should be professional and smart, but at the same time, you need to be comfortable and be able to handle all the tasks in the assessment test.
Be a team player, not a leader
A leading attitude is good, but not for everyone. Teamwork tests are often undertaken, so you need to show your potential there.
Each team has some requirements. Someone needs to lead. Someone else keeps track of the task evolution, and so on.
It makes no difference what your role is if you do it perfectly. Stick to your strengths and encourage everyone else in the team to do the same. You want your team to be the best.
Get ready for the unexpected
No matter how well you prepare, some employers change everything at the last minute, only to see how fast people can adapt. For instance, you might be asked for a presentation. You need to prepare it in advance and you are given 15 minutes for it.
On the day, you find out that you only have 10 minutes.
Speak a bit faster, but you may also have to remove a few bits or change them to fit in the required time frame.
Employers often want to check how you work under pressure, but also how flexible you are. Keep calm, no matter what happens, then try to adapt as well as you can.
If you expect such a surprise, you are more likely to succeed.
Be your best version
Your personality is just as important, so let it shine. You must be positive and have an approachable nature. Even if you are not 100% confident, try to look like you are. It will help you relax. It can also help to look your best for the interview. Check out this article of ours where we present how to get perfect hairstyle for job interviews.
Treat other candidates with respect, too, and stay away from anything that may seem negative.
Bottom line, these few ideas should help you prepare for assessment tests with no issues at all. While unexpected situations may still arise, the better you prepare, the easier it will be to overcome them.