Practical test at interview - any tips?

YORKSHIRELASS

Hi all

I am very excited as I have got an interview for a job which I really really want. Its admin based work and the letter states that I will have to sit a "short practical test".

When I last had a job interview I was asked to use a computer to do some set tasks and I panicked a bit and dont think I did as well as I should have. I was annoyed afterwards because none of the tasks were particularly difficult - it was just having the interviewer sitting there watching me that really put me off.

Any tips or advice? How important do you think these practical tests are? Am I worrying over nothing?

silkyuk9

Im guessing it could be a little tape test, and possibly grammer and corrective spelling. So if you are good at all those, then good luck you don't need any tips.

browneyedbazzi

I sympathise with you because I'm quite good with computers but as soon as someone is looking over my shoulder I can't help but click all the wrong buttons and typo everything!

The only 'tip' I can give is to take your time and try not to think about someone watching you. Take a deep breath and just focus on the task (rather than thinking about the situation).

I also don't think the tests are the most important thing - if you fit the bill for the job and they like you then a typo or a couple of wrong clicks on the tests won't stand in your way as they are things that can be quite easily corrected and I think most people acknowledge that little mistakes will happen in a pressurised environment like an interview.

This_Year

silkyuk9 wrote: »

Im guessing it could be a little tape test, and possibly grammer and corrective spelling. So if you are good at all those, then good luck you don't need any tips.

Indeed, there might be a grammar test.

YORKSHIRELASS

browneyedbazzi wrote: »

Take a deep breath and just focus on the task (rather than thinking about the situation).

Thanks, thats a good one to remember, just think about what I have been asked to do and block everything else out. Someone else has just said to me that if I do well in the rest of the interview the practical test shouldnt matter too much, unless I am really terrible!

barbaraemmerson

I had to do a similar test when applying for an admin job with the council - it was more important to be accurate than quick - try and block out the fact you are being timed/watched and treat it like any other typing assignment - easier said than done - don't panic if you don't complete it all as the likelihood is every other candidate will be the same!!!