2. Chapter 17 Taking Preemployment Tests
Part 4— The Job Hunt
Chapter 17
Taking Preemployment Tests

3. Chapter Objectives Explain why employers give preemployment tests.
Describe the types of preemployment tests commonly given to prospective employees.
Prepare for preemployment tests.

4. Key Concepts
Many employers will require applicants to take preemployment tests. Most of these tests do not have right or wrong answers.
Being prepared for preemployment tests includes being well rested, having supplies needed, and arriving at the test site early.

5. Taking Preemployment Tests
Types of preemployment tests include:
Skill tests.
Psychological tests.
Situational tests.
Government tests.
Polygraph tests.
Written honesty tests.
Medical exams.

6. Skill Tests Skill tests: Analyze mental and physical abilities.
Types of skill tests include:
Performance tests – check ability to operate tools and machines.
Written and oral tests – examine understanding of practices or facts needed in the workplace.

7. Psychological Tests
Psychological test: A test that examines your personality, character, and interests.
These tests are used to measure cooperation, assertiveness, adaptability, loyalty, honesty, and personal likes and dislikes.
Sometimes these tests are given to find out how well a person will adjust to the job and get along with others.

8. Situational Tests
Situational test: A test that examines the ability of job applicants in a work setting similar to that of the job.
Skills, knowledge, and attitudes are observed through these tests.
Sometimes the applicant decides not to take the job after experiencing the work.

9. Government Tests
The U.S. Government, the nation’s largest employer, hires many people for civilian and military jobs.
Two common government tests:
Civil service test.
Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB).

10. Civil Service Test
Civil Service test: An examination a person may be required to take in applying for a government job.
The testing process is designed to assure all U.S. citizens a fair chance at government jobs regardless of sex, race, religion, and political influence.

11. Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery
Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery: A test designed to measure strengths, weaknesses, and potential for future success.
Two versions are used by military recruiters.
The ASVAB is a good predictor of how a person will perform in education, training, and work situations.

12. Polygraph Tests
Polygraph test: A test given with a machine that measures and records changes in a person’s blood pressure and perspiration during questioning. Also called a lie-detector test.
Most private employers are prohibited from using lie-detector tests.
Polygraph tests are strictly controlled under the Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) of 1988.

13. Written Honesty Tests
Honesty in the workplace may be measured with a written honesty test.
Overt honesty tests ask questions about specific situations.
Others use subtle questions to identify people who may act dishonestly.
These tests can be given in every state.

14. Medical Examinations
Medical exams identify health problems that could keep people from doing their jobs properly.
They also identify applicants who have health problems that could become liabilities.
Some employers have begun to use genetic testing to predict future problems.

15. Physical Disabilities and the Screening Process
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA):
Prohibits discrimination of people with disabilities who are qualified for a job.
Requires employers to reasonably accommodate a person with disabilities who can perform on the job.
Eliminates employers’ attempts to screen out individuals with disabilities during the interview process.

16. Drug Testing
Many employers require drug testing as part of the application process.
Drug use has led to workplace accidents, high absenteeism, reduced productivity, and high health costs.
Applicants with positive results are usually not hired because of the effect of drugs on job performance.
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17. Drug Testing
To provide workers with a safe environment, many employers have started drug prevention programs.
Some form of drug testing is usually included, taking place periodically without prior notice.
Policies vary, but employees who test positively could be suspended or dismissed.

18. How to Take Preemployment Tests
To stay calm and composed at test time:
Find out in advance what kind of test is being given.
Get plenty of rest the night before.
Take an extra pencil.
Arrive early.
Ask questions.
Do not spend too much time on one question.
Have confidence in your ability.

19. Thinking Back Why do employers give preemployment tests?
Describe the types of preemployment tests commonly given to prospective employees.
How can you prepare for preemployment tests?