Skills test for temping agency

Moonpixie

Hi, I'm planning on joining a few temping agencies and just wondered what I am likely to be expected to do during an assessment test for them? I'd be looking for office based work and while my current job involves a bit of admin, I've never actually worked in a office.

Has anyone done these tests and what did you have to do?

Thanks for any help

ShadowPuma

Usually a typing test, a basic word test and a basic excel test.

PenguinOfDeath

I've had one which involved a simple maths, grammar and spelling test

Moonpixie

Thank you, both.

Penguin, when you say simple maths could you give an example? Was it generally percentages, etc?

DKLS

They could also include an inbox exercise where you have to sort through some data and make decisions on what work you would prioritise.

dawyldthing

They often test to see your words pre minute, esp if your going into data entry. Plus sometimes ones like attach a word document to an email, that sort of thing

PenguinOfDeath

Moonpixie wrote: »

Thank you, both.

Penguin, when you say simple maths could you give an example? Was it generally percentages, etc?

Off the top of my head (it was about 3 years ago) it was things like percentages, basic algebra etc, it was multiple choice however

Moonpixie

Thanks again.

So, is there a chance of failing these tests and not being taken on by them if you are a bit weak in certain areas?

TELLIT01

There wouldn't be much point in setting tests and then taking on people who fail them would there? If an applicant is just a little weak, i.e. close to the required level in some areas, it would be different to flunking all the tests.

dawyldthing

They will look at the results and see if you are what the employer wants. As if you can only type say 15 words a minute but you need to be aiming for 30 words as its over the phone or something similar then it wouldn't be the right job. As they want to match the right person to the job so they get the agency fees

SMG15

I been to temp agencies where I failed the assessment test and they had no desire to place me.

Then when I became older I passed the data entry, microsoft and typing test and they were eager to place me.

So OP if you fail the test it's very likely they won't place you because they don't want to send anyone to companies who will make the agency look bad.