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Aptitude Tests

Why are aptitude tests used?
Employers often use aptitude tests when people apply for jobs. The tests are designed to help a company make an objective evaluation of an applicant's existing skills level or their aptitude to learn specific kinds of skills that are relevant to the job. They are not intended to catch people out but taking any kind of test can make people feel nervous.

How can an aptitude test help me?
Aptitude tests can help you find a job for which you are suited
The test will be chosen because the skills it involves will be relevant to job skills
Tests give an objective measurement of your skills
People who do well in an aptitude test would probably do well in the job itself

What sort of tests may I be asked to complete?
Test packs normally cover 3 areas:

Ability to estimate numerically
Ability to check the accurate recording of data
Ability to follow instructions

Depending on the skills required for the job you are applying for, you may be asked to complete all or only part of them.

Some useful tips:
Have a good night's sleep beforehand
Give yourself plenty of time to get to the session as rushing is stressful
If you wear glasses or a hearing aid, remember to take them with you
Listen carefully to any instructions
Don't be afraid to ask questions
Read each question carefully before answering
Work quickly and accurately, as most tests have short time limits
Don't waste time on a difficult question
Try as hard as you can - the more questions you get right, the higher your score will be


Assessment Tests

Type of Exercise How to impress What's involved What the client expects
from the candidates
Case Studies Mock work situations are provided, for which you are expected to draft suitable solutions
Sift the data
List the main issues
Show understanding of the situation
Make conclusions

Thoughtful, common sense solutions
Bright ideas
Ability to analyse data
Good communication skills


Group Work
Can take different forms, from team-building exercises to discussion & debate
Help the group to finish the task by moving discussions forward
Focus on teamwork, not pure leadership
State your views clearly
Be prepared to compromise
Note starting time


Ability to listen, discuss point & keep to the subject
Ability to interact with others without dominating
Good communication & teamworking skills
Leadership skills


In-tray Exercises
Simulations of day-to-day work situations, which may relate to the job you have applied for
Be methodical
Be precise
Time management skills


Ability to organise and prioritise workload
Ability to problem-solve
Self-organisation


Lunch & Breaks
Socialising with other candidates
Be polite and friendly
Don't eat or drink too much
If in doubt, ask


Good communication skills
Social graces & manners
Interest in others


Presentation
Presenting a proposal, summarising research results or promoting a campaign. You will need to check beforehand that all the equipment you need is available.
Deliver a clear, succinct message
Introduce with an anecdote or rhetorical question & conclude using a recap or call to action


Ability to prepare concise & relevant information
Good communication skills
Ability to hold an audience's attention


Psychometric Tests
(aptitude & personality)
These test your aptitude to do the job and/or look at whether you have the right personal style. JNF can provide mock tests and training if required.
Prepare well
Answer honestly
Pace yourself
Read all the instructions before you start


Honest answers
Rounded personality
Good verbal reasoning
Eye for detail


Role-plays
Test your ability to think quickly & your reactions to work-based & staff issues by simulating certain situations
Be clear about the background to the role-play
Don't pre-judge what will happen


Show good listening skills
Good communication skills
Ability to work under pressure
Ability to form opinions clearly
Good negotiation skills
Creativity


Technical Interview
Can be an interview or a practical task
Prepare well
Answer questions confidently
Ask questions that relate to the position


Relevant technical skills
Suitability for the job



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