Can You Improve Your Cognitive Score Over Time?

Yes—you can absolutely improve your cognitive test score over time, especially with the right preparation and strategies. While cognitive ability tests (like numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and logical thinking assessments) are designed to measure your natural aptitude, they also evaluate skills that can be sharpened with practice. As an HR professional, I’ve seen candidates significantly raise their scores by understanding the test format, identifying their weak points, and committing to focused……

What Is a Passing Score on an Aptitude Test? A Guide from an HR Manager

As an HR manager involved in hiring for both entry-level and executive roles, one of the most common questions I hear from job candidates is: “What’s a passing score on the aptitude test?” It’s a fair question—aptitude tests are often the first major hurdle in the recruitment process. Whether you’re applying for a corporate role, a civil service position, or a graduate program, understanding how these tests are scored (and what……

How Teachers Are Tested: Assessment Prep for Education Jobs in the UK

Teaching is one of the most rewarding—and demanding—professions in the UK. Whether you’re a newly qualified teacher (NQT), an experienced educator applying for a promotion, or seeking a job in a new school, you’ll likely face more than just a standard interview. Assessment tests are now a routine part of the hiring process in education, used by schools, academies, and local authorities to evaluate candidates’ suitability beyond their CVs. Here’s what……

How to Prepare for Civil Service Exams in Ireland: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Irish Civil Service offers rewarding careers across multiple departments and agencies—from administrative and clerical roles to professional and specialist positions. But before you land the job, you must first pass a Civil Service entrance exam, which is a competitive and multi-stage selection process. Whether you’re applying for a Clerical Officer, Executive Officer, or specialist post, preparation is key. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you succeed. 1. Understand the Structure……

How Employers Interpret Your Assessment Scores: What Candidates Should Know

Aptitude and personality tests have become essential tools in modern hiring. Whether you’re applying for a corporate position, a public sector role, or a graduate scheme, you’re likely to encounter some form of pre-employment assessment. But what happens after you complete the test? How do employers actually interpret your scores? As someone who has reviewed hundreds of assessment reports as part of hiring decisions, I can tell you this: your test……

What to Do After Failing a Job Assessment Test – Insights from an HR Manager

Failing a job assessment test can feel discouraging, especially when you’ve invested time researching the company, tailoring your resume, and preparing for the opportunity. As an HR manager with years of experience reviewing assessments and working with candidates at every stage of the hiring process, I want to offer some practical advice: a failed assessment is not the end of the road—it’s a learning opportunity. Here’s what you should do if……

How to Stay Honest but Strategic on a Personality Test

Personality tests are a common part of the hiring process, especially for roles in large companies, public service, and leadership positions. These tests evaluate your behavioral traits, values, and how well you might fit within a company’s culture or team. While it’s important to be truthful, you should also approach these tests strategically—presenting your best professional self without being dishonest. Here’s how to strike the balance between honesty and strategy on……

How to Prepare for a Video-Based Job Assessment

Video-based job assessments are becoming increasingly common among employers, especially large corporations and Fortune 500 companies. These assessments allow hiring managers to evaluate candidates remotely by recording responses to pre-set questions or conducting live interviews through online platforms. While convenient, video assessments can be challenging if you’re not properly prepared. Here’s how to prepare effectively and make a great impression: 1. Understand the Format Video assessments usually fall into two categories:……

Are Personality Tests Biased? What Job Seekers Need to Know

Personality tests have become a standard tool in the hiring process, especially among large employers, including Fortune 500 companies. These assessments are designed to measure traits such as communication style, emotional stability, leadership potential, and how well a candidate may fit into a company’s culture. But many job seekers are asking a crucial question: Are personality tests biased? And if so, how might that affect their chances of getting hired? Here’s……

Top Assessment Tests Used by Fortune 500 Companies: What You Need to Know

Fortune 500 companies rely on pre-employment assessment tests to identify the best candidates for their workforce. These tests help employers evaluate candidates’ skills, personality traits, and cognitive abilities beyond what a resume or interview can reveal. If you’re preparing for a position at a leading company, knowing which tests to expect and how to prepare for them can give you a serious edge. Here’s a breakdown of the top assessment tests……