Why Use & What Are Online Recruitment Tests?
Most companies are using psychometric online tests during their recruitment process alongside other assessment methods (such as application forms and interviews) to decide whether a person has the required capabilities and hopefully secure the best fit for their role. These could be personality questionnaires, various ability tests like verbal and numerical reasoning assessments or situational judgement tests.
How do I complete an online test or assessment?
An online link to the assessment will be sent to you via an email, which would also include full instructions on how to complete the test. You must complete it with no distractions or input from any other person. Some companies use short verification tests where candidates are retested under supervised conditions to validate their online test results.
Most online assessments can be completed on any computer using common web browsers and systems. More online tests are becoming compatible with smartphones and tablet devices. However, bear in mind the type of test you are asked to take as you may feel more comfortable completing it on a PC or laptop with a bigger, clearer screen. Generally, an ability test must be completed in one session. For many roles two or more online assessments may be required. However, you don’t have to do all of them at once. You usually have several days to complete all the necessary tests. It’s very important that you check the deadline given in your invitation email. It’s important to have a stable internet connection. If you have any connection issues then contact your test administrator immediately.
How should I prepare for an online recruitment test?
- It is useful to familiarise yourself with online tests before. Some test publishers, like SHL, have an online site designated for candidates to practice assessments and to get tips on how to prepare yourself. You can visit shl-on-demand-candidates to find out more.
- For graduates visit: https://www.kent.ac.uk/ces/student/assessmentaptitude.html?tab=practice-tests as there are lots of support materials here.
- Find out what test or tests you will be doing. For example, there are lots of different numerical tests so make sure you are familiarising yourself with the right one. Having some familiarity and practice is useful but there is no real benefit in over-practicing. You are not likely to improve your score significantly with lots of practice and besides jobs are NOT simply offered to candidates with the highest test score. It is only part of the assessments. Over-practicing may actually hinder your performance on the real test as you may be too tired.
- Therefore, try to complete the tests when you are feeling relaxed and alert. It’s best to find a quiet place where you won’t be distracted.
- Make sure you have read all the assessment instructions carefully.