Candidate Practice Tests
Applying for a job and completing an assessment can be a daunting experience.
This section has been prepared to help you understand what to expect from the assessment process and give yourself the best chance of success.
Note: Podium do not offer any feedback on the practice tests. We do not provide answers, scores, or solutions to the questions presented in these practice tests.
Please review the information below before commencing an assessment.
Before commencing an assessment
Understand the assessment format:
- Review the assessments you are going to complete and the type of questions you are going to be asked.
- Even though it is untimed, if you are completing a personality exercise, it should take you about 20 minutes to get through.
- The Podium general ability exercise is timed and has 60 questions to answer in 30 minutes. It includes a random mix of verbal, numerical, and abstract (i.e., shapes and patterns) questions.
- Ability exercises are typically designed not to be finished. If these assessments are too easily completed in the time you have got then it is unlikely to differentiate people who could have maybe answered several questions more.
- The ability assessment also includes a mix of questions of various difficulty – so while some questions might be easy for you to answer, some questions may be naturally a bit harder.
Practice, practice, practice:
- Use the Podium practice test link to get a good sense of what you will encounter when completing the actual assessment.
- Focus on time management while practicing.
Check your tech setup:
- Ensure a stable internet connection and a fully charged laptop/PC.
- If needed, update your browser and clear any distractions on your computer (e.g., turn off notifications).
Find a quiet, comfortable space:
- Choose a well-lit room free from distractions.
- Inform others in your household about your assessment to avoid interruptions.
- Switch off your phone.
Get rest and stay relaxed:
- Get a good night's sleep the night before you choose to complete the assessment.
- You do not need to complete the assessments in one sitting, so take a break between completing each exercise.
- Take deep breaths to calm any nerves.
- If you feel nervous, maybe start with the untimed personality exercise first so you can get comfortable with the layout of the exercise and test site itself.
During the Assessment
Follow instructions carefully:
- Read all directions thoroughly before starting.
- Note any time limits or specific requirements for each section.
Manage your time:
- Keep track of time, but don't rush.
- If you get stuck, skip a question and return to it later if there's time.
Go back and review your answers if time:
- If possible, review your answers to avoid careless mistakes.
- Don't spend too much time rethinking answers if time is short—go with your best judgment and first response.
Maintain Integrity
Adhere to Honest Practices:
- Avoid Foul Play: Our assessment technologies are designed to detect any attempts at cheating or the use of unauthorised external tools such as Google or AI assistance.
- Use of External Tools: Relying on external resources can not only jeopardise the integrity of your assessment but also consume valuable time that could be better spent on the tasks at hand.
Consequences of Misconduct:
- Detection and Reporting: Any detected instances of dishonesty or misuse of tools can be reported to the respective organisation, which may impact your candidacy.
Best Practices:
- Authenticity Matters: Approach each question with your own knowledge and skills to ensure the most accurate reflection of your abilities.
- Understand AI Limitations: While AI can be a helpful tool in many cases, it may be misled by certain questions and can make errors. Relying solely on AI may lead to incorrect answers and wasted time.
Encouragement for Integrity:
- Build Trust: Demonstrating honesty and integrity during your assessment helps build trust with potential employers and showcases your commitment to ethical standards.
- Maximize Your Potential: By focusing on your own capabilities, you can better showcase your true potential and suitability for the role.
After the Assessment
Reflect on the experience:
- Consider the questions that were most challenging and think about how you handled them.
- Think about what else you can do to prepare in the event you have the option to re-sit these (or other assessments) in the future.
Follow up:
- Follow up with the organisation who requested testing to confirm the next steps in the process, when you be contacted, and any additional directions or application guidelines.
Analyse and practice:
- Ask about access to a post-assessment feedback report (if available).
- Keep refining your skills for future assessments based on this experience.
Stay positive and move forward:
- Whether or not the assessment went as planned, take it as a learning opportunity.
- Continue honing your skills for future opportunities and celebrate the fact that you've gained valuable experience.
Contact us to find out more about Podium and our products.