Job assessments and tests are a widely utilized method for pre-employment screening. This evaluation tool allows employers to determine the presence of specific skills and compatibility. Whether the company is large or small, and despite the number of candidates after the open position, evaluations decrease the time and money involved by reducing the number of applicants moving on to the next phase of hiring. The American Management Association recently found that roughly 90% of employers using these examinations do not acquire employees missing the basic skills. As a result, pre-screened candidates will lower turnover and help overall employee morale.
While specific job assessments and tests may differ depending on the industry, company, and position tasks, they commonly evaluate the skills, personality, aptitude, honesty and integrity, and any possible drug use of all applicants. The skills examination is popular due to its ability to detect position related proficiency at a basic and more detailed level. Personality evaluations vary between brief questionnaires to extensive psychological examinations and provide perspective on one’s flexibility, sociability, extroversion, and emotional stability. When looking at aptitude, management can determine current abilities as well as the applicant’s capability to retain additional training. It may evaluate reasoning, oral, and written aspects. Honesty and integrity evaluations focus on their outlook on confidentiality, company property, internet use on site, and truthfulness. Finally, drug testing is frequently performed prior to and during employment to allow for a drug free work environment.
It is imperative that employers conduct both verbal and written examinations under the guidelines of applicable discrimination laws such as Title VII and the Equal Employment Opportunity act at the local and national levels. They must be valid and dependable to maximize the usefulness of the results.
