When candidates apply to myself and Louise at CML, one of the first steps of the application process is to complete three online tests. This is because on the Admin and Support Services team often we are asked by clients what level a candidate is at with regards to typing, Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel. So if we have candidates complete these tests at the initial registration it saves time for us and the candidate further down the line.

So why am I talking about (boring) online tests you might ask? Well this week I have spent my whole week running a testing centre for one of our clients for a particular position we are recruiting in to.

The position is in the Accounts field, which means the online tests are different from those that we ask candidates to do when initially registering and so it has been a lengthy process. Both for me and the candidates…

I have been amazed this week at how nervous our candidates are when they come in to sit these tests and so what I wanted to offer here was a bit of advice to anyone who finds themselves sitting such tests, whether it be for a specific job or even just to brush up on your skills.

1) Do a bit of research before sitting the tests. There are plenty of websites online you can go to, to brush up on your math skills or typing etc…
2) Take your time…like with all tests when you are flustered you tend to rush and make careless mistakes
3) Use what’s available to you – so for example if a test says you CAN use a calculator if necessary, use it! Don’t struggle through when you could easily help yourself.
4) Show up for your testing time early, that way you won’t be stressed if you are running late.
5) Read the question and the read it again, it’s amazing how often people misread questions.
6) Finally – Take a deep breath and relax. Whatever happens, it’s not the end of the world!

For further information on the tests we offer please get in touch at t.turrell@cmlor.com