Trending post
Gary Williams
Bullet point
Follow
Maintenance Machine Operator at Ta Ta Tea

Pre testing

Why is every company that I have applied for have this pre testing I am 42 years old graduated in 1992 there are math questions and other questions that I have no idea about i have been to four different interviews and couldn't pass I'm a very hard worker that don't miss days at all I think it not fare to the older generation to have such high testing where we know nothing about that the younger generation does.

1
21 Comments
about 10 years ago
Like
Comment
Share
Tony Moss
Bullet point
Follow

What happens when you explain this problem to them?

10y
Like
Reply
Mike Coonce
Bullet point
Follow

Gary I hate to tell you the job market has changed . If your having trouble I suggest look at ways to improve your skill training programs community college courses etc Te days of a strong back are over employers want more

10y
Like
Reply
1
Tony English
Bullet point
Follow
Product Development at Ohio Fabricators

Anyone that tells you to roll up your sleeves and try harder is usually the person who has had everything givin to them thru life, INCLUDING THEIR JOB !, them people can argue with me all they want, that doesnt change the fact.

10y
Like
Reply
Greg Kenney
Bullet point
Follow

Gary. I feel your pain. But I also have to say, I hope you write better, and with punctuation, whenever a job pursuit is involved.

10y
Like
Reply
2
Al Restaino
Bullet point
Follow
Vice President of Marketing

Gary seriously. You live In a world of competition. Regardless of skill set requirements think in terms of what employers want. Training a new person is outrageously expensive. Testing is simply a filter system no way around it. In today's world no matter what job you have basic math and communication skills are a baseline not an option. Personality, work ethic are great once you have the base skills. It's the way of the world and unlikely to change any time soon. Good luck you can do it. Best.

10y
Like
Reply
1
Bullet point
Follow

The assessment business has blossomed in the past 10 years. There are valid reasons for using them from the HR side as the stats prove they reduce turnover and increase job match. Many have math, language and "intelligence" portions. The "good" news is that successful incumbents typically have to take the assessment and a benchmark per position is developed. Not all jobs require high math or linguistic skills so while that portion is there you may not need to score high to be a match for that job. The best person for a job might score a 6 out of 10 in math or a 7 out of 10 on language. All this to say, be yourself. I understand it's frustrating and stressful. The right job is out there for you. Networking is still a great way to get in to interview; so please let those who know you best help you job hunt. Work the online sites and make it your job to find one you want. God bless and may it happen soon.

10y
Like
Reply
Mary Becker
Bullet point
Follow

I think the value of pre-testing depends on the type of position for which you are applying. I applied for several positions that required pre-testing. They were generally a combination of a personality/attitude evaluation and a basic logic test. If you are applying for a position that is technical or requires troubleshooting skills, the logic test helps the potential employer know whether or not you can use basic logic and reasoning to find a solution. If the test includes math skills that you do not have, then you probably do not have the skill-set necessary for the position.

Given that I am 6 years older than you are and I managed to complete the tests successfully, I think they have nothing to do with your age and everything to do with aptitude and attitude. Rather than resent them, take them as a challenge. Look online and see if you can find some sample tests to practice on so you do better the next time.

10y
Like
Reply
1
Wanda Sexton
Bullet point
Follow

I agree I have years experience and a work ethic like none of the young people today have. To test us is ridiculous not only that put me up against anyone just out of college with a 4 year degree and me with all work experience and see who can do the job! Book experience does not compare to work experience!!!

10y
Like
Reply
2
Antonia Cabal
Bullet point
Follow

Gary, I am older than you and I have had to take personality tests for retail jobs and never gotten a single call. On the other hand, I had one company that gave me a combined math/patterns/personality test and I actually got a phone interview. Didn't get the job, but that was because I talked too much.

Age has NOTHING to do with it. Try studying up on the math problems you had trouble with.

10y
Like
Reply
See all replies
Gary Williams
Bullet point
Follow
Maintenance Machine Operator at Ta Ta Tea

Thank you guys for understanding what I'm going through it rough out there for the older generation. I can work and learn just like everyone else maybe even better than some thanks for the post

10y
Like
Reply
1
See more comments
Add