5 Selection Methods Used by Recruiters in Careers Fairs

Hunting for a job has become more challenging for applicants. Companies began conducting exams and using methods to ensure that candidates are the best fit for the position offered. Most applicants get through the first round of interviews but fail to ace the succeeding exams.

Looking for a job doesn’t only stop with reviewing possible questions asked during interviews. Applicants should also be prepared for selection methods in case they encounter one.

1. Cognitive Ability Assessment

Companies look for people who think accurately and carefully in situations where it is essential. Aptitude tests can check an applicant’s reasoning, numeracy, and literacy skills. Before going into an interview, try to familiarise yourself with aptitude tests. There are exams you can do online to help you assess your current level.

It also helps to practice answering these kinds of exams, so you won’t have to worry much during the actual test. Listen carefully to the instructions and make sure you understand everything. Remember to work quickly but accurately.

2. Personality Questionnaires

Personality questionnaires are commonly used during the early stages of recruitment. They are a type of test that measures an applicant’s personality traits, such as motivation and working style. There are no right or wrong answers in these exams. However, you need to answer the questions as honestly as possible.

3. Job Simulators

Job simulators are more modern approaches to testing applicants before they get hired. It’s a strengths-based approach, usually encountered early on in the recruitment process. Simulators focus on testing your future potential. It diagnoses how applicants act in various scenarios in the workplace, which they can encounter later on. Usually, the recruiter asks the applicants to watch a video about the company and the position and follow it up with a multiple-choice exam which you’ll need to answer.

The process seems stressful. However, it’s not the right time for you to overthink. Instead, listen to the questions carefully and keep the company’s values in mind before answering.

4. Group Exercises

Group exercises are a more classic approach to assess applicants. The recruiters measure your ability to interact, solve problems, and have logical skills while being in a group. You will work with other applicants during the process, and you’ll help each other solve problems.

Since it’s a team effort, never try to dominate everyone during the exam. Instead, contribute where you can and help each other stay on track. Be assertive proving a point, but stay courteous at all times. Recruiters are never pleased with applicants with terrible personalities.

5. Panel Interviews

Panel interviews usually consist of two representatives of the employer, drawn from different departments. Depending on the situation, an applicant may be subjected to more than one interview.

What usually comes after a panel interview is a one-on-one interview. The one-on-one is also usually with someone you will be working closely with if ever you get hired by the company.

Panel interviews are tricky as there are a lot of people talking all at the same time. But stay focused and only answer the questions directly to who asked them. But then try to interact with the other members of the group as a courtesy.

Conclusion

Due to the pandemic, working and finding jobs have become more challenging for some. However, even if the hiring process now happens in front of a computer, the exams that come with the application are still the same. Keep in mind that these tests are meant to show the skills that you have for the position. Treat it as if you’re selling yourself to the company. Before answering a question, remember to relax and answer honestly.

The UK Careers Fair is conducting an online career fair to cater for people looking for jobs in the middle of a pandemic. Sign up on our website to learn more about how to qualify for a job interview today.