Tips & Tricks

<div> An important component of assessment centres, in-tray exercises (or in-basket or e-tray exercises, the latter being used when they are administered on a computer) are role playing exercises where a candidate assumes the role of an employee and is given a set of tasks to perform under time pressure. These tasks can include writing memos, answering emails, creating reports, or handling organizational charts. By involving candidates in these tasks, assessment centres are able to determine their professional attitudes and also evaluate if they are fit for the job.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <img alt="Assessment Centre Secrets Revealed: What Is the In Tray Exercise?" src="http://www.careergym.com/images/upload/image/cg_tips4.jpg" style="padding-top: 15px; padding-right: 15px; padding-bottom: 15px; padding-left: 15px; float: left; width: 266px; height: 200px; " />An important component of <strong>assessment centres</strong>, <strong><u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/in_tray_exercise" target="_self">in-tray exercises</a></u></strong> (or in-basket or e-tray exercises, the latter being used when they are administered on a computer) are role playing exercises where a candidate assumes the role of an employee and is given a set of tasks to perform under time pressure. These tasks can include writing memos, answering emails, creating reports, or handling organizational charts. By involving candidates in these tasks, <strong>assessment centres</strong> are able to determine their professional attitudes and also evaluate if they are fit for the job.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <em><span style="font-size: 16px; "><strong>In Tray, E-Tray, and In-Basket Exercises</strong></span></em></div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> The terms in tray, e-tray, and in basket exercises are used interchangeably in many <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/pqa_interview_personal_qualities_attributes" target="_self">test interviews and recruitment exams</a></u>. <strong>In-tray exercises</strong> are done in the presence of an interviewer using pen and paper while e-tray exercises require the use of a computer. In basket exercises include a set of written correspondence that is provided in a basket.&nbsp;</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <span style="font-size: 16px; "><em><strong>What the In-tray Exercises Include</strong></em></span></div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> Typically, <strong>in-tray exercises</strong> include a number of writing tasks ranging from answering emails to creating reports. Candidates are given a short outline of their job role in a hypothetical organisation, without any direction about the writing style or information on what evaluators are looking for.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <em>The exercises can include one or more of the following tasks:</em></div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <ul> <li> Writing memos, letters, emails, and documents.</li> <li> Creating organizational reports and charts.</li> <li> Composing or replying to emails.&nbsp;</li> <li> Taking telephone messages or replying to them.</li> <li> Creating calendar items based on a hypothetical schedule.</li> </ul> <div> <span style="font-size: 16px; "><em><strong>Why In-Basket Tests Are Important</strong></em></span></div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <strong>In-tray exercises</strong> provide an insight into your aptitude for a particular job. The tasks that you are given in such a <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/psychometrics" target="_self">psychometric assessment</a></u> are reflective of the actual tasks that employees perform. By observing your performance and taking notes, interviewers can assess your skills and see how well suited you are for the job.&nbsp;</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> Additionally, these exercises are also a great way of knowing about job responsibilities and requirements. They can help you decide if the organization and the role suit your skill set and goals.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <span style="font-size: 16px; "><em><strong>Test Taking Tips</strong></em></span></div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> Like with any other <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/job_interview" target="_self">testing interview</a></u>, it is important to stay calm and focused during <strong>in-tray exercise</strong> assessment. Time management is crucial: split your total time into parts so that you can work according to a pre-set timeline. Speak to the interviewer and research the company and industry that is recruiting to get as much information as possible. Pay attention to what they are saying since it will help you perform better in the test.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> If the writing tasks come with a set of instructions, ensure that you read them extremely carefully and then attempt to answer any questions. Many candidates get very low scored because they answer a different question than the one that was asked. For example, when the test requires you to &ldquo;provide an executive summary for your superior on the issues outlined in the file&rdquo; and you happen to provide a more analytical, detail-oriented note, this will not go down well with assessors.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> Prioritize your task list and perform critical tasks first. Remember that interviewers are not looking for answers to all questions: they are looking for your competences in various fields, and domain-knowledge is only one of these. They want to understand how you approach the problem, even if you choose to delegate a task to another team member or a junior employee.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> If you want to familiarize yourself with this type of exercise, look for online e-tray exercise tests which can help you prepare.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <span style="font-size: 16px; "><strong><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_tests_online" target="_self">Questions? Need more info? Check our free online training webinars for the assessment centre!</a></strong></span></div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> &nbsp;</div>

<div> Cognitive ability tests, also known as aptitude tests, are a part of psychometric testing conducted by assessment centres during job selection procedures to determine a candidate&rsquo;s skills and abilities. In most cases, these aptitude tests include a combination of abstract reasoning tests and numerical and verbal reasoning tests.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <strong><img alt="Assessment Centre Secrets Revealed: What Are the Cognitive Ability Tests?" src="http://www.careergym.com/images/upload/image/cg_tips6.jpg" style="padding-top: 15px; padding-right: 15px; padding-bottom: 15px; padding-left: 15px; float: left; width: 300px; height: 200px; " />Cognitive ability tests</strong>, also known as <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/aptitude_test" target="_self">aptitude tests</a></u>, are a part of psychometric testing conducted by <strong>assessment centres</strong> during job selection procedures to determine a candidate&rsquo;s skills and abilities. In most cases, these aptitude tests include a combination of <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/test.php?hash=free_abstract_reasoning_demo" target="_self">abstract reasoning tests</a></u> and <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/online_test_free_demo" target="_self">numerical and verbal reasoning tests</a></u>.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> Aptitude tests are used in many different industries, especially sales, finance, and marketing sectors. A large number of consulting firms also use <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/online_test_packages" target="_self">aptitude online tests</a></u> in order to gauge a candidate&rsquo;s abilities prior to interview.&nbsp;</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> These tests help <strong>assessment centres</strong> to quickly shortlist candidates that reflect the skills required for the role. Apart from numerical and verbal reasoning tests, candidates may also be required to take mechanical ability tests, which test their product knowledge and professional abilities.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <span style="font-size: 16px; "><em><strong>What Cognitive Ability Tests Include</strong></em></span></div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> Although <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/aptitude_test" target="_self">aptitude tests</a></u> include a series of psychometric components, the actual test depends on the industry and the role being interviewed for. A company hiring for a position which requires excellent communication skills may focus on <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/verbal_reasoning_test" target="_self">verbal reasoning tests</a></u> while a company hiring for a position which requires mathematical skills may focus on numerical reasoning. Similarly, certain <strong>cognitive ability tests</strong> can also include spatial and mechanical tests.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/spacial_ability_tests" target="_self">Spatial ability tests</a></u> are used primarily in production and design jobs, with questions about two dimensional and three dimensional drawings, shape assembly, and object angles.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/mechanical_reasoning" target="_self">Mechanical reasoning tests</a></u> are industry specific and are mostly used in interviews for manufacturing, production, and mechanical engineering roles. These <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/common_interview_questions" target="_self">testing interviews</a></u> are also used for military jobs and apprenticeships.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <span style="font-size: 16px; "><em><strong>Why Cognitive Ability Tests Are Important</strong></em></span></div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <strong>Cognitive ability tests</strong> are a combination of aptitude tests and general intelligence tests. They provide an insight into a candidate&rsquo;s capabilities, skills, personality, and attitude. They also make it easier for <strong>assessment centres</strong> to evaluate a candidate.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> Most of these tests are computerised, thus allowing for a fair and legitimate selection process. A percentile score helps shortlist candidates who have performed better than others. These candidates then move forward to additional interview rounds.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> Because manual input during these test interview processes is minimal, they also help save time and money for the interviewing organization.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <span style="font-size: 16px; "><em><strong>Test Taking Tips</strong></em></span></div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> You can find numerous <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/online_test_free_demo" target="_self">aptitude sample tests</a></u> and aptitude test papers online. When discussing the job role with your interviewer, try and find out about the different interview stages and assessment methods. This will help you plan your <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/coach_says_tips_tricks" target="_self">preparation course</a></u> better.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> Take online tests for numerical, verbal, and abstract reasoning to hone your skills. Spend at least one or two hours a day practicing these tests. Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you practice, the better are your chances of doing well in the <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/psychometric_test_types" target="_self">selection test</a></u>.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> &nbsp;</div>

<div> <div> An abstract reasoning (or, as sometimes called, diagrammatic reasoning) test is a test of analytical and logical abilities, designed to evaluate quick thinking and strategic planning. They are an integral component of many aptitude tests and are increasingly being used by business organizations for interview testing.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <img alt="Why Abstract Reasoning Tests Are Special" src="http://www.careergym.com/images/upload/image/cg_tips8.jpg" style="padding-top: 15px; padding-right: 15px; padding-bottom: 15px; padding-left: 15px; float: left; width: 320px; height: 250px; " />An abstract reasoning (or, as sometimes called, diagrammatic reasoning) test is a test of analytical and logical abilities, designed to evaluate quick thinking and strategic planning. They are an integral component of many aptitude tests and are increasingly being used by business organizations for interview testing.&nbsp;</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> Unlike&nbsp;<u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/online_test_free_demo" target="_self">numerical and verbal reasoning tests</a></u>,&nbsp;<u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/test.php?hash=free_abstract_reasoning_demo" target="_self">abstract reasoning</a></u>&nbsp;is entirely based on visual questions, which do not require any arithmetic or language skills. Candidates work with patterns, shapes, and diagrams.&nbsp;<strong>Abstract reasoning tests</strong>&nbsp;are considered accurate indicators of general intelligence and cultural awareness.&nbsp;</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <span style="font-size: 16px; "><strong>What Do Abstract Reasoning Tests Include?</strong></span></div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> If you have taken a career aptitude test in school or college, you might remember they almost always had visual questions. While there is no specific pattern to an&nbsp;<strong>abstract reasoning test</strong>, questions can range from identifying common patterns in a set of similar shapes, find missing patterns or find a series of patterns. This is achieved using diagrammatic representations or a set of geometrical shapes.&nbsp;</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> Candidates use their logical abilities to find the correct match. Their choices are then assessed by interviewers or&nbsp;<u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/live_webinars" target="_self">assessment centres</a></u>&nbsp;to determine if the candidate is a good fit for the job.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> All&nbsp;<strong>abstract reasoning tests</strong>&nbsp;are timed. Candidates usually get between 15 to 60 seconds per question.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <span style="font-size: 16px; "><strong>What Is The Format Of These Tests?</strong></span></div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> The exact format of the test and the difficulty depends on role responsibilities and requirements. If the role in question requires candidates who can think on their feet, take strategic decisions, and improve business processes, it is likely that the&nbsp;<strong>abstract reasoning test</strong>&nbsp;they take will be difficult.&nbsp;</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> These tests are created by&nbsp;<u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/psychometrics" target="_self">psychometric testing</a></u>&nbsp;companies or occupational (industrial) psychologists. There are two to three rules of identifying shapes and solving questions, which are explained in abstract reasoning practice tests.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <span style="font-size: 16px; "><strong>How Companies Use Abstract Reasoning Test Scores</strong></span></div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> Assessment centres have test performance benchmarks for every role in an organisation. A candidate&rsquo;s test scores are evaluated against these benchmarks and their performance is measured accordingly. This enables future employers to get an insight into how a candidate could perform if hired.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <span style="font-size: 16px; "><strong>Preparing for Abstract Reasoning Tests</strong></span></div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> Practicing free aptitude tests will give a fair idea of what to expect in a real&nbsp;<u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/job_interview" target="_self">testing interview</a></u>. Take as many<u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/online_test_packages" target="_self">&nbsp;practise tests</a></u>&nbsp;as possible so you can work on correcting your mistakes, thus allowing you to perform well in a real-time test.</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> Because performance benchmarks are different across organizations and roles, there is no minimum or maximum score to aim for. Taking&nbsp;<strong>abstract reasoning tests</strong>&nbsp;will also enable you to find your strengths and weaknesses, giving you time to work on improving them.&nbsp;</div> <div> &nbsp;</div> <div> <u><span style="font-size: 16px; "><strong><a href="http://www.careergym.com/online_test_free_demo" target="_self">Questions? Comments? Check our FREE psychometric tests today!</a></strong></span></u></div> </div> <div> &nbsp;</div>

<div>As the name rightly suggests, <strong><u><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/test.php?hash=free_verbal_reasoning_demo">verbal reasoning tests</a></u></strong> are used to assess linguistic ability of the test taker. Candidates are tested on several different parameters, including reading comprehension, grammar, and sentence structure. Although these <u><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/psychometric_test_types">assessment tests</a></u> are primarily used in universities and colleges during the admission procedure, many business organizations are also adopting <strong>verbal reasoning tests</strong>, along with <u><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_training_webinars">psychometric testing</a></u>, for candidate evaluation.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>It is important to understand the difference between verbal ability and verbal reasoning. The former tests grammar and spelling, and is used to judge a candidate&rsquo;s understanding of the English language, while <strong>verbal reasoning tests</strong> logical ability through reading comprehension and complex sentences.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-size: 16px; "><strong>What Verbal Reasoning Measures</strong></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The actual type of <u><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/online_test_free_demo">reasoning test</a></u> varies depending on an organization&rsquo;s unique test selection process but the basic premise for all tests remains the same &ndash; testing the ability to comprehend complex questions or situations. This is considered a fairly accurate representation of a candidate&rsquo;s verbal abilities.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Some organizations also test candidates for spelling, sentence structure, and word meanings. In such a case, candidates are advised to speak to their interviewer and ask them about the kind of questions to expect in the test.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-size: 16px; "><strong>Why These Tests Are Used?</strong></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Experts believe that <strong>verbal reasoning tests</strong>, combined with psychometric assessments, can help organizations determine if a candidate is a good fit for a job. A cumulative average of verbal test scores and other job aptitude tests is taken, after which assessors discuss candidate profiles.&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Additionally, these tests are a measure of critical reasoning skills, analytical abilities, and candidate intelligence. They are mostly used during managerial interviews in sales and marketing industries.&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Grammar and spelling tests are used to interview candidates that have applied for administrative positions. Some of these tests can be speed tests, where the number of questions is deliberately disproportionate to the time limit.&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><span style="font-size: 16px; ">What is the Format of the Tests?</span></strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The exact format depends on the <u><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/assessment_centre_training_webinars">assessment centre</a></u> organizing the <u><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/common_interview_questions">testing interview</a></u>. Typically, <strong>verbal reasoning tests</strong> include:</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <ul> <li>Word analogies</li> <li>Critical reasoning</li> <li>Reading comprehension</li> <li>Sentence deductions</li> </ul> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>These tests gravitate towards native speakers of the language and certain candidates may need additional preparation in order to have the best chance to perform well on them.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-size: 16px; "><strong>How to Prepare Best</strong></span></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><u><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/test.php?hash=free_verbal_reasoning_demo">Verbal reasoning practice tests</a></u> are a great way of preparing for upcoming <u><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/aptitude_test">aptitude tests</a></u>. Regular practice helps improve skills that are critical for a successful interview.</div> <div>Reading books, newspapers, and online resources will also help improve vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure. Additionally, candidates can prepare by completing <u><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/online_test_packages">online practice tests</a></u>.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><u><span style="font-size: 16px; "><strong><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/online_test_free_demo">Questions? Comments? Check our FREE online psychometric tests now!</a></strong></span></u></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before you even consider the task of evaluating <u><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/aptitude_test">sample aptitude tests</a></u> before applying for a position, your first step is to attract the attention of a potential employer with a stellar <strong>CV</strong> and <strong>cover letter</strong>.</p> <p><strong>Tips for Professional CVs</strong></p> <p style="margin-left: 40px; ">- <strong>Proofread, and do it again</strong>: Having a <em>single</em> typo on your <strong>CV</strong> can eliminate your chance to be invited to an interview and to a <u><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/test.php?hash=combo_psychometric_demo">job test</a></u>, so ensure your <strong>CV</strong> is absolutely perfect. Have someone else look it over from a fresh perspective.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px; ">- <strong>Begin with experience</strong>: Outline your work experience first, and then include your education. Most employers will have more interest in relevant work-related experience and <u><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/aptitude_battery">aptitude</a></u> over formal education.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px; ">- <strong>Include specifics</strong>: Generalised statements simply don&rsquo;t have enough impact, if you are going to include your accomplishments, such as &ldquo;I have coordinated a sales team that resulted in a 56% increase in two consecutive quarters&rdquo;, so that you get specific about them.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px; ">- <strong>Get numerical</strong>: Including percentages, award ratios, or rankings has a more impressive look. For example compare &ldquo;One of the best salesmen in the division&rdquo; to &ldquo;Top salesman award received 4 out of the last 5 years.&rdquo;</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px; ">- <strong>Summarize</strong>: Capture an employer&rsquo;s attention by including a summary of who you are, why you are a great candidate, and any specifics that may make you a front runner right at the beginning of your <strong>CV</strong>.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px; ">- <strong>Make it visual</strong>: Plain, boring <strong>CVs</strong> are difficult to read. You can improve the look of your <strong>CV</strong> by using columns, bold titles, and easy-to-read (sans-serif) fonts. Try to keep information in point form so it can be quickly scanned. The easier your <strong>CV</strong> is to read, the better chance you have that it will be thoroughly read by a potential employer.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px; ">- <strong>Go PDF</strong>: A PDF version of your <strong>CV</strong> will be easier to open and read than a Word or Writer file, so consider saving your <strong>CV</strong> as a PDF prior to sending.</p> <p><strong>Tips for Amazing Cover Letters</strong></p> <p>- The single most important tip for writing <strong>cover letters</strong> is to remember that an employer wants to know how exactly you are going to help them and how you can contribute to their own objectives. This means when you write about achievements, skills, and accomplishments you need to include how these in particular make you a better candidate and how these tie into the employer&rsquo;s offering.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px; ">- <strong>For example</strong>:</p> <ul> <li>&ldquo;I have an advanced engineering degree from the University of ----.&rdquo; would sound better as: &ldquo;My advanced engineering degree helps me understand complex processes so I can improve your company&rsquo;s operations.&rdquo;</li> <li>&ldquo;While completing an internship at ---- I learned how to market various companies.&rdquo; should rather be phrased as: &ldquo;Having learned about consumer marketing during an internship at ---- I am confident that I can put together complex and effective marketing campaigns for your company.&rdquo;</li> </ul> <p>- The <strong>cover letter</strong> should be <strong>kept to 10-15 sentences</strong>, any more and the employer may lose interest.</p> <p>- Remember that <strong>you want to lead them</strong> from the <strong>cover letter</strong> to your <strong>CV</strong>, so tie in the fact that your <strong>CV</strong> has further details.</p> <p>- Finally, thank the employer for their time and include contact information so they can call you for a <u><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/job_interview">testing interview</a></u>!</p> <p><strong>Questions? Comments? Try our FREE and Premium <u><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_training_webinars">Job Test Prep Webinars</a></u> and ask for our experts&rsquo; <u><a target="_self" href="http://www.careergym.com/assessment_centre_training_webinars">Assessment Centre advice</a></u>!</strong></p>

<p>Even if you understand the need to prepare for <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/psychometric_test_types" target="_self">psychometric tests</a></u> while job-hunting, there are still many common mistakes to avoid. By reviewing these issues you can ensure you are ready for your next testing interview, as well as what comes before and after to maximize your employment success:</p> <p><br /> 1. <strong>Thinking a few days is enough</strong>: Preparing to take <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">job tests</span></strong> can take longer than you expect. In fact, it may be a good idea to start practicing for the standard types of tests (i.e. <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/test.php?hash=free_abstract_reasoning_demo" target="_self">abstract reasoning</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/test.php?hash=free_verbal_reasoning_demo" target="_self">verbal</a> and <a href="http://www.careergym.com/test.php?hash=free_numerical_reasoning_demo" target="_self">numerical reasoning</a></u>) already now to ensure you are fully prepared when it comes time to take them, even if you don&rsquo;t have a specific employer in mind yet.</p> <p><br /> 2. <strong>Assuming your skills / knowledge are enough</strong>: Even if you are exceptionally talented at math, you may still not have the experience or practice to succeed at <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/numerical_reasoning_test" target="_self">numerical reasoning tests</a></u>. One issue is that straight calculations do not take into account the &ldquo;reasoning&rdquo; part of the test &ndash; using the facts at hand to arrive at a logical answer. So even if you are a math whiz it can certainly be advantageous to take <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/online_test_packages" target="_self">practice tests</a></u> prior to the real thing.</p> <p><br /> 3. <strong>Rushing the process</strong>: Posting a competition, sifting through CVs, interviewing, testing, re-interviewing, and hiring may be a long process. In the meantime, you are sitting around without a job. Keep applying to other positions and continue <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/online_test_free_demo" target="_self">test practice</a></u> for future <strong>job tests</strong>.</p> <p><br /> 4.<strong> Too much competition</strong>: When someone sees a job they wish to apply for, the first thing that runs through their mind is &ldquo;so many people will apply for this job, it&rsquo;s not even worth my time&rdquo;. Sure, many candidates may apply, but they may not: i) have the experience, skills, education you do, ii) be able to successfully complete the <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/psychometric_glossary/aptitude_test" target="_self">aptitude tests</a></u>, or iii) have the personal skills to make a positive impression during interviews. You&rsquo;ll never know unless you try!</p> <p><br /> 5. <strong>Focusing on salary</strong>: Even though a job may not be &ldquo;perfect&rdquo; for you, you may be tempted by a generous salary. This may not be the best approach, particularly if the employer plans on assessing candidates for motivation and aptitude tests. These types of exams will clearly indicate what type of job you are suited for and determine the decision of the potential employer as well.</p> <p><br /> 6. <strong>Assuming you&rsquo;re under-qualified</strong>: Being surrounded at the job test by competition with more skills, experience, or education can make you feel like you don&rsquo;t have a chance, but it is well worth it to hang in there. Remember that most employers are focused on finding the &ldquo;right&rdquo; candidate, and may prefer someone they can really work with, rather that someone who <em>thinks</em> they already know all they need to know.</p> <p><br /> 7. <strong>Ignoring the future</strong>: Getting your CV noticed is the first step, likely <u><a href="http://www.careergym.com/online_test_packages" target="_self">verbal or numerical reasoning</a></u> tests will follow. However, it is important to look at the future and be prepared. For example, if you are applying to a law firm you may need to prepare for a panel interview, while if you are working in communications, a written exam may be next. Spend your spare time now preparing and you will be much more relaxed and confident when it is time for the next step.<br /> <br /> <strong>Still lost? Try our <a href="http://www.careergym.com/online_test_free_demo" target="_self">FREE psychometric test preparation</a> and start practicing online now!</strong></p>