Having the right tools at your disposal can make hiring a lot easier—and a lot more successful. Here is a quick overview of different assessments tools you can use, beyond the basic job interview:
Qualifications Screens
Simple questionnaires determine if an applicant has the minimum requirements to perform a job (availability, minimum age, years of related experience, etc.).
Job Simulations / Work-Sample Tests
These require the candidate to demonstrate or perform job tasks. Simulations may be conducted: as written tests, as role-playing exercises, on a computer, or even in real-life conditions. By design, they generally show a high degree of job-relatedness.
General Abilities Tests
Generally used for entry-level jobs or for applicants without advanced degrees. They measure broad mental abilities such as reasoning, quantitative, verbal, and spatial abilities.
Specific Ability Tests
Test for distinct mental and physical abilities, such as typing speed, reading comprehension, strength, and mechanical aptitude.
Knowledge and Skills Tests
Determine how much an individual knows about a very specific, advanced subject area such as software programming or mortgage laws. Knowledge tests are similar to specific ability assessments but examine more sophisticated skills.
Talent Measures / Personality Inventories
Measure a candidate’s natural personal characteristics like: leadership and management skills; problem-solving ability; motivation; self-confidence; and communication styles.
Culture Fit Inventories
Assess how well an applicant will fit into your corporate culture and work environment, to help ensure organizational commitment.
Background Investigations
Gather information from outside sources, such as former employers and police records. Employment, criminal record, and reference checks all help employers avoid potentially catastrophic hires.
Drug Screens
Use a physical specimen from the candidate (hair, urine, etc.) to determine past drug or alcohol use. Employers use drug screens to prevent industrial accidents, work-related injuries, and excessive absenteeism.
