What Is eSkill?
eSkill is a test provider that provides customized web-based tests to its clients. eSkill clients come from a diverse group of industries, with tests designed to cover 350 different subjects. Established in 2004, eSkill offers its services globally and prides itself on the range of general assessments and customizable assessment tests provided to its customers.
eSkill offers employers a massive library of tests to choose from. They can pick from modular pre-prepared tests, select based on subject, or choose job-specific tests. Employers are able to edit and modify the test questions in a way that best suits their needs. eSkill rejects the “one size fits all” concept of employment testing and focuses on individualizing its tests for the client’s needs.
eSkill Tests
eSkill offers many different types of tests for assessing job candidates. All tests are tailored to the needs of the client and may be given in different combinations based on the skills the client is looking for. eSkill specializes in web-based testing, which allows employers to be flexible in where applicants can test. Rather than send jobseekers to a testing center, most web-based tests are sent to the applicant in a link and they can take the tests at home, or wherever is convenient.
Most eSkill tests are 40 questions long. Since the tests are customizable, their content will vary based on the job being tested for, and the company using the test. The majority of the tests are timed, and the amount of time given to complete each type of test varies.
- Skills testing – These tests focus on hard skills, generally revolving around the operation of office software. These will measure proficiency in typing, data entry, MS Office Suite, Excel, ten key, medical billing, attention to detail. The goal of Skills Testing is to ensure that candidates have the essential skills to perform well on the job.
- Aptitude Testing – Aptitude testing consists of reasoning tests. The most common aptitude tests are in verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, and abstract reasoning. Also known as cognitive testing, the questions you will find on an aptitude test are similar in format to IQ tests. You do not need to have any special skills to perform well on these tests. Instead, they give an overall view of your cognitive ability. These are all things that can indicate job success and embody skills that are important in job performance.
- Pre-employment Testing – Pre-employment testing can include aptitude testing, but also includes testing for Advanced Microsoft Office, Java, English Language Skill, Math employment testing, machinery, and filing, any skill your potential employer finds valuable can be included in pre-employment testing. These tests are not only job-specific, they are also employer specific. The skills and aptitudes hiring managers find most valuable, can vary greatly based on the corporate culture, and company image.
- Call Center Testing – This test will measure the skills necessary to adequately perform a call center job, including listening, grammar and spelling, math, communication, basic computer skills. There may be a video component to call center testing, as well as a virtual job simulation.
- Video Response Questions – This form of testing is used as a way to evaluate your interpersonal and presentation skills prior to interviewing. You are sent pre-recorded questions and must record your response. The questions are worded in a way that requires you to justify your stance and demonstrate critical thinking, and reasoning ability.
- Behavioral Assessments – These are used to help determine if your personality is a good fit for the hiring company. Work style, ethics, motivators, and other traits are all used to see if you are a good fit for the company culture.
How to Prepare for eSkill Tests?
Preparing for skills-based testing is a much less daunting task than a psychometric assessment. Find out the skills that you will need to perform your desired job, and practice them until you are confident, they are at the level they should be. Timed typing tests are available online, as well as resources for learning office software such as Microsoft Office, and Excel. Practicing your math skills at home is easy with the help of online resources as well. Presentation is an important skill, and more employers are utilizing video questions, especially in the customer service field. Just like you would do a mock interview, practice your one-on-one speaking skills so you know you will make a good impression on video.
Preparing for the eSkill test, or any pre-employment test goes beyond just studying. Preparation also includes making sure your workspace is free of distractions and making sure you have a secure internet connection. If you are testing from your home PC instead of at a testing center, make sure you have a secure internet connection, and that your software is compatible with the test. If you are aware of a video response test make sure you are dressed professionally and are alert and focused.
eSkill prides itself on its skills testing software. If you practice your skills and keep them sharp, there is no reason to worry about taking skills-based tests.
