What Do Temporary Agencies Test For?

Temp agencies screen applicants to place in short-term positions with their clients.

Temporary agencies look for contract workers to quickly assign to projects for their clients. As the projects are short term and vary in duration from several months to as brief as a day, the agencies must quickly assess the skill sets of the workers they send out. Several tests are given by temporary agencies to make sure applicants can do the tasks that the client requires.

Typing Tests

Typing tests are fairly common. Applicants are told to list their typing speed on their resume when they apply, as many clients specify a minimum typing speed. You are sent to a room and shown an article. Retype the article as fast as you can without making any errors. The results are usually given as words per minute.

Software to Know

Another type of common test includes skills with basic office software. Again, you are told to list the programs you can use on your resume. Common software includes Excel, Word, Outlook, QuickBooks and Access. Some clients specify a specific version of a program they want applicants to have experience using, so a temporary agency may have a separate test for each program version. Locations of many commands vary by version, and new features and shortcuts are added in each version.

Software Test Procedure

For software tests, you will be given a timed test for a specific program. You are shown a number of questions like "How do you open a file in Word?" and are told to demonstrate each one. Make sure you know the exact method to do this without extra steps. Searching through menus will immediately assign you a wrong answer. If there are several methods of doing the task, make sure you know all of them. For example, you can click the "File" menu in the left corner to open the file, or you can use keyboard commands Alt-F and Alt-O. Make sure you know both methods, as you might be asked to demonstrate either or both.

Background Tests

Depending on the agency, additional tests are performed to verify your character. Quest Staffing offers some screening advice. You will likely be asked to sign off on a background check. Detail levels vary, as sending out detectives is expensive, so the client will be charged extra fees for the service. A credit check is often required. The agency may also take a urine sample or a hair sample. Expect stronger testing standards if the temporary agency hires workers for government contracts.

Professional Appearance

While you are taking these skills tests, there is another test you are being given. The agency staffers must ensure they send someone out who has a professional appearance. Treat the meeting at the testing facilities like a job interview. Corestaff offers some tips on how to present yourself. Wear the clothing you would be wearing when you are working at your desired job. Clean up your appearance; some employers do not like long hair, piercings and tattoos, and it may reflect badly on the temporary agency. Be sure you have a pleasant scent, but don't overuse perfume or cologne. Treat everyone with respect, including workers at other companies in the building and other job applicants.

References

• Corestaff Services: Career Advice
• Quest Staffing: Frequently Asked Questions