5-8: Different types of Employment assessments and tests. Flashcards
What are the two general types of employment assessments?
Aptitude tests (capacity to learn/acquire skills) and achievement tests (what a person knows or can do right now).
What do cognitive ability tests measure?
Brain-based skills such as memory, problem-solving, and numerical ability.
Give examples of cognitive ability tests.
General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB),
Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT),
Bennett Mechanical Comprehension Test.
What do personality and interest inventories measure?
Personal characteristics like extroversion, agreeableness, and openness to experience.
Why can personality tests be problematic in employment selection?
They may inadvertently discriminate against otherwise effective candidates.
What is emotional intelligence (EI) in employment assessments?
A set of personal qualities distinct from cognitive ability, important for leadership roles.
What is emotional and social competence (ESC)?
A broader concept of EI that includes a range of personality characteristics relevant for leadership success.
Why are physical ability tests used in employment?
To ensure candidates have the physical strength, endurance, and abilities required for specific job demands.
How do physical ability tests differ from medical exams?
Physical ability tests assess job-related abilities, while medical exams evaluate overall health and are subject to stricter privacy and discrimination laws.
What are job sample tests?
Tests where applicants complete tasks they would typically perform in the role, such as map-reading for traffic officers or in-basket tests for managers.
What are the legal considerations for substance abuse testing in Canada?
Testing must have a clear purpose, be non-invasive, and comply with human rights laws, especially since addiction is considered a disability.
What is reference checking in the recruitment process?
Reference checking involves contacting previous employers or other references to verify an applicant’s employment history, performance, and character.
Are employers legally required to provide references for former employees?
No, employers are not legally obligated to provide references.
What type of reference do many employers provide to avoid liability?
A perfunctory letter of reference, which includes only basic information like name, employment dates, position, and final salary.
What key question is commonly asked during reference checks?
“Would you rehire this employee?”
Why do some organizations outsource reference checking?
To obtain accurate, unbiased information from professional screening firms.
What is a common reason for rejecting job applicants based on reference checks?
A survey found that 20% of job seekers were eliminated due to unfavorable reference checks.
What ethical consideration arises from checking an applicant’s social media?
It may be considered an invasion of privacy if done without permission or relevance to the job.
What caution should employers take when using social media for reference checks?
Ensure the information is accurate and relevant to the job, and avoid invading the candidate’s privacy.
