Many companies conduct tests as an assessment method to test a person's competence as part of the employee recruitment process. Usually, this test aims to evaluate personality in order to determine the right candidate to fill a job vacancy. Sometimes, test takers are asked to answer math problems, write essays, or operate computer programs. If you want to take an assessment, prepare yourself by asking the personnel manager about the main subjects that will be asked in the test!
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Method 1 of 2: Taking a Personality Test
Step 1. Find out what to prepare by asking the personnel manager
Since you will be taking a personality test, there is no right or wrong answer. However, ask about the basic things you need to know before taking the assessment, for example:
- "What do I need to do in preparation for the assessment?"
- "What subjects will be asked in the test?"
Step 2. Prepare yourself by answering questions in a personality test via the internet as an exercise
Look for a personality test by going to the Myers-Briggs website and answering the questions honestly for the most accurate results. This exercise gives you an idea of what questions are asked when you take a personality test.
- In general, personality tests are used to determine a person's traits, such as extroverted, rational, emotional, and so on. Employers will use the test results to find out the personality of prospective employees, such as introvert or extrovert.
- By practicing before the test, you can determine the traits that need to be improved in order to be a good candidate to fill a particular position. For example, if you are applying for a job that requires the ability to interact with other people, try to be a more welcoming and friendly person.
Step 3. Prepare answers that make you fit for the job
Consider the criteria specified in the job advertisement when answering questions. If the company is looking for a very ambitious employee, don't give an answer that makes you appear complacent. If the company requires employees who are able to provide detailed information, make sure your answers provide detailed and accurate data.
Don't give an answer that makes you feel inferior, but don't give the wrong impression about you
Step 4. Answer the questions consistently
When undergoing a test in the context of a job assessment, some of the questions are essentially the same, but the wording is different. If your answers are inconsistent, it may sound like you're lying or not taking your stand, causing employers to doubt your integrity.
For example, when you answer one question, you state that you are an extrovert, but you state that you prefer to be alone to answer other questions. This makes you seem inconsistent
Step 5. Give answers that show that you are ethical and positive
In the context of job assessment, employers conduct tests to find prospective employees who are honest, trustworthy, and optimistic. If the answers given make you feel unkind or untrustworthy, the employer will ignore you.
Examples of frequently asked questions: "Are you allowed to steal things at work?". You must answer "no". You may sound untrustworthy or stealthy if you answer "yes."
Step 6. Give answers that show that you are capable of working with other people
People who are not able to work in a team usually have poor job performance and their careers are hampered. If your answer makes you seem overly introverted or unpleasant, your employer will give you an unfavorable rating.
If you are asked to describe yourself, answer honestly and candidly
Step 7. Give answers that show that you are wise
Employers want to know how well you can handle stressful situations and control your emotions. Never give an answer stating that it is normal to be angry with a coworker or boss. Answer the question by explaining that you are not burdened by high deadlines or work goals. An answer like this demonstrates your ability to be calm and self-controlled.
Method 2 of 2: Taking the Competency Test
Step 1. Find out the skills to be tested by asking the personnel manager
Depending on the positions available, you may need to take a test to test 1 or more skills. Ask your personnel manager for information on this by sending a short, formal email, for example:
"Please, Madam/Madam's willingness to provide information about the competency test held on _, especially those related to the rules for taking the exam and exam materials. Thank you for your attention."
Step 2. Practice answering test questions to improve your ability to spell words, construct sentences, or solve math problems correctly
In the competency test, there are several basic abilities that will be tested. Contact your personnel manager for information about the test you need to take. Some employment agencies offer training opportunities through websites for people who wish to take competency tests. To practice doing problems before taking a math test, look for sample collections in your library or bookstore.
Take advantage of practice scores to find out which skills need improvement before taking the test
Step 3. Improve the ability to answer the math problems to be tested
Set aside 1 hour a day to practice doing math problems to prepare yourself. If the test schedule is very close, allocate more study time each day. Ask a friend who is very good at math for help. If your answer is wrong, find out why and then practice again.
Focus on studying math problems that are relevant to the job. For example, if you want to take a test to work as an accountant, you may be asked to make financial reports
Step 4. Improve writing skills if needed
Improve your ability to compose sentences, spell words, and type. Practice 1 hour a day or more to prepare. Show your writing to someone who knows writing techniques and then ask for feedback on areas that need improvement and suggestions for improving skills.
Step 5. Practice operating the program that will be used if you are hired
If the job advertisement requires skills to operate a particular program, you may be asked to demonstrate these competencies. For example, if you must use Excel at work, you may be asked to create a table using Excel.
- If you need to hone your computer program skills before taking the test, create a table or report using a computer program so that you feel confident when taking the test.
- Look for tutorials online if you need to refresh your memory on how to use computer programs.
Step 6. Create a positive atmosphere ahead of the test
If you are taking the test at home, avoid distractions, such as the TV, so you can focus on the assessment. If you're taking the test at work, bring a bottle of water, stationery, or other supplies you need to make you feel comfortable.
Step 7. Answer questions calmly
Breathe deeply if you feel pressured. If there are questions that cannot be answered, continue answering the next question and then come back again after the other questions have been completed. Instead of thinking about getting hired or not, focus on answering each question as best you can.
Step 8. Read each question to the end
Don't skim through a question and assume you understand it. If something is not clear, read it again. If you've read the questions several times, but still don't understand, try to answer them to the best of your ability and then check again if you have time.