Job simulations are a growing new hiring trend
Credit to Author: Murali Murthy| Date: Mon, 11 Mar 2019 05:39:46 +0000
You may be asked to showcase your skills in a test when interviewing for your next job
The next time you head in for an interview, it may not be the typical question-and-answer format you’re expecting. More and more organizations in Canada are implementing creative interview strategies that go beyond the surface and dig deep into your skills, personality and behaviour.
One of the emerging trends is job simulation and it certainly pays to prepare for one. A job simulation is an assessment that puts you in realistic, job-related situations and measures your behaviours or responses to help determine your qualifications for the job. It’s a great tool for employers especially if you’re an internationally trained professional with little Canadian experience.
Advantages of job simulations
There are many advantages to this approach in hiring, so don’t be surprised if you are asked to take part in one in your job search. Benefits for employers and candidates alike include:
• Higher validity. Job simulation assessments are definitely a better way to predict future job performance.
• Better job fit. By exposing candidates to various types of events, scenarios and challenges confronted on the job, these simulations can help you determine if the job is well suited to your knowledge, skills, abilities and interests.
• Positive experiences. Because job simulations replicate the real types of tasks performed in the actual job, studies have found that applicants are more likely to view them as being fair and job-related.
Job simulation formats
Job simulations can take many different forms, such as in-person assignments, online exams, take-home assignments, role-playing, presentations or even virtual simulations.
Basic exercises: You will be required to complete certain tasks such as responding to emails, taking phone calls and handling grievances within a set amount of time. Often, these exercises are best for administrative and managerial positions.
Situational judgment tests: You may be presented with a work-related scenario and be asked to use your judgment to provide a solution that can amicably resolve the situation at hand. These tests ideally lead to positions such as customer service and supervisory roles.
Work sample tests: These typically hands-on tests will require you to complete certain activities that are similar to actual tasks you would perform on the job. Examples include writing code, take-home assignments, collaborating with others to design a website or completing an onsite construction task.
Role-playing exercises: Role-playing is probably the most common of all job simulation formats. These exercises help to evaluate your ability to navigate interpersonal challenges in a work environment.
Tilt the job simulation in your favour
So, what should you do if you find out a job simulation will be a part of your job interview? First things first, you should do thorough research and brush up on your abilities. This means reviewing your knowledge and skills for the position being assessed to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
Then practise hard to perform the task/issue that will be assessed. You could even record yourself performing the task and ask anyone to observe and provide constructive feedback.
Go online for quick help. No matter your specific field, a quick online search will reveal a lot of practice assessments.
And, lastly, just relax and smile. Remember, job simulations aren’t always about judging your skills. Most of the time, the hiring team is looking to measure intangibles such as EQ and critical thinking ability.
Today, job simulations are beneficial for employers and candidates alike. Candidates who ace the process and are hired are more likely to stay with the company longer, report higher levels of job satisfaction and demonstrate greater productivity.