Discover This Month – June 2023
This month we look at resumes and skills testing. There are several types of tests a recruiter or employer may ask you to complete when being considered for a role. You’ll find useful information available for you to utilise to ensure that you are well prepared if you are asked to sit a psychometric test for a role you have applied for.
We are covering the various types of testing and provide some tips on preparing your resume so that you stand out from the competition.
Read more of our newsletter for greater insights on this topic. We are open to suggestions of other areas you would like more information on or require further advice on. Please reach out to us if there is a topic you would like to see covered in this newsletter.
Please read further….
Testing has advantages when assessing people for a role. One of the advantages is that it can streamline the process for the recruiter or employer and when used in combination with a resume it can give an obvious picture of both the skills and the personality of the candidate.
Psychometric testing is based on science and psychology which makes it less likely that a person will put their own personal judgement on your traits, background, history and experience.
Usually, all the candidates will be given the same test so everyone is on the same playing field. These tests need to be deciphered and interpreted by professionals who will highlight key aspects of your personality based on the responses and answers of the test.
These tests can show how you handle tasks, work in a team, think logically, handle conflict etc. They give an employer a more detailed look at your personality.
Employers use these tests to compare the skills of the short-listed candidates. Often they can show a good cultural fit with the business. It is important that the job seeker also consider the cultural fit when applying for roles because it’s important for both parties to feel content.
These tests are often used for C-Level and executive roles which may affect others and important areas of the business. Not all employers use them but they are becoming more common.
It’s not recommended that these tests are used in a stand-alone fashion but in conjunction with interviews and resumes. If you are asked by an employer to take a test, ask as many questions as you need to. Try to determine what the focus is, be honest and true to yourself and know that it is likely to be advantageous to you. It also usually means that the employer is very closely considering you for the role if they are going to the trouble of testing you.
“Psychometric tests are psychological tools, which are developed and validated according to a scientific method, to measure a candidate’s cognitive abilities, personality, and aptitude.
Cognitive ability tests, in this case, can be seen as a subgroup of aptitude assessments.”
Tell Your Story Creatively:
Rather than relying solely on traditional resume formats, consider using unconventional methods to tell your professional story. You could make your skills, achievements, and experiences visually through infographic additions, video resumes, or even personal websites.
Focus on Skills and Accomplishments:
Highlighting your skills and accomplishments in a clear and concise manner can significantly enhance your resume. Instead of simply listing your job responsibilities, emphasise the impact you made in previous roles, this is what employers are really looking for. Quantify your achievements whenever possible, using numbers, percentages, or tangible results.
Incorporate Keywords from Job Descriptions:
Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter resumes based on keywords. To increase your chances of getting through these systems, carefully analyse the job descriptions and identify relevant keywords you can use in your resume content. Especially in the skills and experience sections. Ensure that your use of keywords remains natural and contextually appropriate.
Showcase Transferable Skills:
When transitioning between industries or applying for a job with a slightly different focus, emphasise your transferable skills. Identify skills that are applicable to the new role and demonstrate how they align with the job requirements. This demonstrates your versatility and adaptability.
Include Volunteer and Community Work:
Incorporating volunteer and community work on your resume is an excellent way to stand out and demonstrate your commitment to making a positive impact. Some employers value individuals who are socially responsible and actively involved in their communities. This is especially important if you are a graduate or junior as it shows initiative.
In a rapidly evolving job market, displaying a commitment to continuous learning can make a significant difference. Include a section dedicated to professional development, showcasing relevant certifications, courses, workshops, or conferences you have attended.
This demonstrates your proactive approach to staying updated and expanding your knowledge, which is highly valued by employers seeking individuals who can adapt to new challenges.
There are lots of factors that recruiters and employers use to make a determination on candidates and if they will make a job offer.
We know that candidates are equally looking to ensure a good fit, aligned ethics and attitude when they are looking at roles that are vacant.
Yes it is more time-consuming and for some, it may make you nervous as you may not have sat a test in a long time but it’s really gauging your personality and cultural fit. This is something that is becoming increasingly important as companies look to try to retain staff for as long as possible.
There are several types of tests under different brands, do your homework online and investigate what each test shows and the outcomes they seek.
If you are unsure and require some advice don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team we are here to support you in your employment journey.
t does appear that there are now more candidates applying for each role advertised so if you are looking for a new role or seeing what is out there it might be a great time to update your resume and get it up to scratch so that you can be ready when you see something worth applying for.
Remember, to follow us on social media, we post all our job roles online and throughout the month not only do we offer this newsletter but sometimes extra articles and content that you may find very useful.
We are here to help you.
Stay well
Sandra
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