Mastering eSkill Assessments 2024: Your Ultimate Online Prep Guide

by Sarah Duncan

If you’re currently in the process of looking for a new job, you’re probably aware of eSkill assessments.

eSkills assessments are becoming increasingly prevalent in the hiring process, and succeeding in these assessments is essential on the path to securing a new position.

So how do you ensure you’re putting your best foot forward and ensure that you’re ready to ace these tests? This guide is dedicated to showing you exactly what you need to do!

We’ll delve into:

• Understanding what eSkills assessments are
• How to prepare for them
• How to pass with flying colors.

Let’s get into it!

Understanding eSkill Assessments

So what exactly are eSkill assessments? eSkill assessments are used by many companies across the US as a method of screening and selecting potential employees.

The assessments are taken by potential candidates on the eSkills platform and are usually customized to the specific role or position.

The tests available on eSkills cover 350 subjects, within which are 3,400 topics or skills that may be assessed.

These skills relate to specific job roles. For example, an administrative role would likely require a test of the candidate’s Microsoft skills or typing. Therefore, employers can customize tests to the specific role they are hiring for.

The tests on eSkills can also be divided into two types. Predefined tests are created by eSkills and test the knowledge of candidates in a certain subject area.

On the other hand, job-based tests are customized to the specific position being applied for and are often tailored to the company.

Take eSkill Assessments Online Test Now

How long are the eSkill tests?

The duration of each test varies largely. Some tests on data entry are as short as 30 minutes while the longer ones like the cognitive and analytical tests can last for up to 5 hours. Most of these tests are timed. You cannot come back and revisit later once you have started it. Once the test begins, you will have to finish it or you forfeit the chance to pass. So it is strongly advised that you only start the tests when you are fully ready, given that the deadline allows it.

How to prepare for eSkill’s tests?

Before you panic about taking eSkill tests, go on Job Test Prep to take your pre-tests that fully mimic the eSkill style and content. It helps you build an understanding of the real tests and familiarize yourself with the question words, content, and answer key.

Take your time to go through each question carefully. Most employers are looking to test candidates’ problem-solving and logical reasoning skills. Questions may not always be as straightforward as they seem. Below are some of the common eSkill tests used by the hiring team to assess the ability of candidates.

• Skill Testing

Skill testing is the most direct way to assess the hard skills a candidate processes. These hard skills can be job-specific. If you are applying for an office role, you will likely be asked to take tests on your typing and data entry skills, knowledge of Microsoft, and listening skills.

These tests aim to measure your proficiency in the essential skills required for the job. They are usually in the first set of tests given to candidates in the hiring process. Only candidates that pass the skill tests will be forwarded to the next stage,

• Aptitude Testing

Consider this the more advanced, in-depth version of the skill test mentioned above. It tests your critical thinking and reasoning skills. Companies rely on the results to estimate how well you will be at your job performance. Candidates with solid hard skills but inadequate reasoning skills cannot fully manifest their potential and bring benefits to a company.

Aptitude testing consists of tests in numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, abstract reasoning, analytical skills, logical reasoning, and more. These skills are absolutely important in professional settings. They help you grow faster and communicate better with your team. Aptitude testing is crucial in your application process and is historically used to screen out half of the candidates at this stage.

• Pre-Employment Testing

Same as skill testing, pre-employment testing is also used to dissect your hard skills. But unlike skill testing, you will no longer be given the easy version of everything. Instead, you are given the more complex set of questions of each skill.

You will be tested on a more in-depth level of the particular skill needed for the job. For example, advanced skills in Microsoft Office, such as using analytical tools and navigating, copying, and communicating reports among different team folders will be part of the test. Every test is task-based. You will be asked to perform certain tasks relating to your field whereas skill-testing assessments are mostly multiple-choice questions only.

• Pre-Employment Call Center Tests

People who work in customer service have to possess strong communication skills. You are the front face of the company. A small mistake can have severe consequences. Therefore, call center tests usually comprise language, data entry, grammar and spelling, and communication skill tests.

Call center representatives possess multiple skills. These all-rounded skills facilitate communication and efficiency in the company. Sometimes, companies ask candidates, especially interns and junior roles, to take call center tests regardless of the role applied because these tests are indicators of how well you will do with ad-hoc tasks should you be asked to do them.

• English Language Testing for Business

An English language test is not only for those who use English as a second language. In fact, almost every candidate who applies for a role that requires written communication skills will be asked to do an English test. This is particularly popular in the finance sector.

The English test consists of four major parts, namely English spelling, English grammar, English comprehension, and English writing. Each test measures your proficiency in the respective category. You may be asked to analyze English articles, describe a pattern or a photo, transcribe a video, and more.

• Video Response Questions

One of the best features eSkill is often proud to present. The video response questions test candidate’s presentation and organizational skills. You will be given a question, possibly on a debatable topic, and be asked to justify your stance.

Because there is no set answer, you are expected to use your presentation skills to convince the interviewers with your answers. This stage is difficult for many candidates as the question given is mostly unrelated to the job. This test does not aim to assess your job ability. Rather, it is used to track your interpersonal skills.

eSkill tests are reliable indicators for companies to decide if you will be a good fit for the team and bring value to the company. It may sound daunting to see the overwhelming amount of subjects and topics covered. But remember, every test platform has a pattern. As long as you can decode it, you can ace it. Get your eSkill tests online preparation on Job Test Prep to prepare for all sorts of assessments.

Take eSkill Assessments Online Test Now

How to pass the eSkill tests?

• Take a free personality test on Job Test Prep to analyze your strengths and weaknesses. It puts into perspective what is expected of you and what you should work on to achieve your career goals. At the same time, it allows some self-reflection for yourself to decide if the job you are applying for is truly suitable for you or sparks your interest. It is always a good practice to take a personality test before going for your dream job to see if your visions align.
• Find a stable internet connection. Do not start your eSkill test with shabby wifi. You cannot redo these tests and most of them are timed. A drop in connection, in the worst case, could be seen as submission of the test.
• Get plenty of rest before the tests. Last-minute studies will not help the situation. Get some quality sleep the night before so you are well-rested with a fresh mind to digest the questions.
• Find a quiet environment. A noisy place can easily distract your focus and negatively impact your score. Go to a library or a study room if your house is not calm enough.
• Read the job description carefully. Understanding what is expected of you helps you foresee what the tests will be. Go through the job responsibilities and the ad-hoc tasks to make sure you do not miss out on any side tasks that you might be required to do.
• Read each question at least twice. The last mistake you want is to give the wrong answer because you have misunderstood the question. Do not skim through the instructions. Each sentence explains the tasks at hand and you should go through the guidelines at least twice before you start.
• Be confident, positive, and look professional. When you do a video response test, the employer can see your overall presentation other than the words you choose. It is the total package. Find a professional background with ample light and dress accordingly. When you present yourself, make sure you smile and look confident. Companies want a team player that can also handle tasks independently. Construct your sentence before speaking but also do not correct yourself frequently. If you pause too often, it gives the impression that you are not familiar with the work. You have to show the interviewers that you are right for the job by believing in yourself.
• Prepare for eSkill tests online at Job Test Prep. There is no better way to nail a job test than practicing it beforehand. Job Test Prep is a fantastic platform for providing job tests tailor-made for each platform. Sign up to get free eSkill-style questions, answer keys, and more.

Take eSkill Assessments Online Test Now

Why Prepare for eSkill Assessments?

So why are eSkills tests so important? Well, eSkills tests are usually the first screening process employers use to shortlist their candidates.

Therefore, poor performance on the eSkills assessments will likely result in a failure to progress to the next stage in a job application.

However, adequately preparing for the tests and knowing what to expect, will put you in the best position possible for success!

Passing eSkills tests to the employer’s or hiring manager’s satisfaction will then advance you through to the interview process.

Furthermore, showing that you have the relevant skills and capabilities on the eSkills assessments provides evidence that you are competent to perform the job you are applying for.

Post-Assessment: Next Steps

So, you’ve taken your eSkills assessment – now, what do you do?

Unfortunately, the results of your test will not be immediately available to you and instead go directly to the hiring manager of the relevant position.

However, the hiring manager may email you your results, or you may request to see them. Refer to the job advertisement for the position for guidance on this detail.

If you manage to obtain the results of your test, you’ll then need to know how to interpret them.

Job-based test results will usually be presented in a percentage format, ranging from 0 to 100. The higher the percentage the better, with 25 percent generally showing a result superior to chance or guessing and over 66 percent showing good knowledge.

However, it’s important to remember that these test results are used comparatively with other respondents, and do not have a percentile rating due to their customized nature.

In contrast, predefined tests on eSkills have percentile ratings, which show how you perform relative to others; again, the higher the better.

If you are unsuccessful in the hiring process due to your eSkills test results, identify the areas in which you scored the poorest and focus on building up those skills.

For example, this may mean improving your typing speed or broadening your Microsoft Office knowledge. The hiring manager for the position may even provide feedback as to how you could improve your next performance.

However, if you were successful and made it through to the next stage, then it’s a great time to start practicing your interview skills in preparation for an in-person job interview!

Try practicing with a friend or family member, make sure you have prepared and done adequate research on the company, and have some questions prepared for your interviewer to show your interest and knowledge.

Final Thoughts

While taking tests is often stressful and daunting, eSkills assessments can be successfully tackled through sufficient practice and preparation.

Take some time to think about what skills and knowledge are likely relevant for the position you are applying for, and take some practice tests in those skills.

Brush up on any skills you think are your weaker points, and take a look through the eSkills platform to familiarize yourself with the tests they offer.

Confidence and preparation are key; they are your best bet to acing your test and securing your dream role!

FAQs

What technical skills are most commonly tested in eSkill assessments?

Popular skills tested in eSkills assessments include data entry, excel skills, typing, math skills, clerical skills, and job task simulations.

How long does it take to receive eSkill test results?

eSkills does not provide test results to candidates directly. Acquiring results will depend on the hiring manager involved in your job application.

Can I retake an eSkill assessment if I don’t perform well?

No, you are only able to take an eSkills assessment once for a position.

Are there any free eSkill practice tests available?

You can practice eSkills style tests and questions at Job Test Prep to prepare for your assessment.