Types of Tests in Job Interviews

Typing tests are given as part of the interviewing process.

An employer conducts interviews with potential candidates to determine whether or not the applicant will be a good fit for an open position. Companies use different techniques to interview potential candidates for jobs. Interviews typically consist of a dialogue between the job candidate and a hiring manager and other members of staff. Tests are often administered during the interview process to assess the candidate’s skills. Interview tests could be in the form of surveys, questionnaires or computer tests.

Computer Software Testing

Employers require job applicants to be able to work on a computer, type, email, use the Internet and be proficient with a number of common office software programs. Computer tests often are given to applicants before a face-to-face interview with a hiring manager. The typing test is normally timed and measures the candidate’s typing speed. Other Microsoft Office software program tests include; Word, Excel and PowerPoint. The tests are not timed, but the candidate is scored based on how long it takes to answer each question as well as whether or not the question was answered correctly.

Integrity Tests

Employers often search for honest, trustworthy employees to work for their companies. Integrity tests evaluate the potential employee’s ability to be honest, dependable and promote pro-social behavior. Integrity, or ethics, tests ask questions that are direct and relate to previous personal experiences. Questions are phrased in a way where there are 0’t any clear, right or wrong answers. The purpose of the test is to identify potential dishonest, undependable employees who would not necessarily fit in the corporate culture of a company.

Personality Tests

Companies test the personality of potential employees to make sure the candidate is stable mentally, emotionally and socially. Identifying personality types will tell an employer whether or not the person is suited for the open position. An introverted quiet pessimist would not make a successful salesperson. Companies save on hiring costs and on turnover by assessing the personalities of potential employees before hiring. Sought after personality traits include openness to new experiences, optimism, service orientation, tolerance for stress and an ability to take initiative.

Cognitive Ability Tests

Cognitive ability tests measure the logic, reasoning and ability for a candidate to comprehend. Problem solving, reasoning, reading and other mental abilities are tested. Verbal and mathematics testing as well as numbers testing and filing tests will reveal a candidate's ability to recognize problems, analyze and correct data. Cognitive ability tests tell employers whether or not the candidate will be able to perform in complex jobs.

References

• Money Instructor: Job Interview: Tests, Surveys, Assessments, Questions
• Society for Industrial & Organizational Psychology, Inc: Types of Employment Tests