Numerical reasoning test: Online skills assessment to screen and hire the best candidates

 What they assess:

• Numerical ability: Can you perform calculations, analyze data, and interpret charts and graphs?
• Problem-solving skills: Can you apply logic and reasoning to numerical problems?
• Data analysis: Can you identify patterns and trends from numerical information?
• Attention to detail: Can you spot important information and avoid careless mistakes?

Benefits for employers:

• Standardized assessment: Helps compare candidates with an objective measure of their numerical skills.
• Predictive of job performance: Studies suggest numerical reasoning skills correlate with success in roles involving data analysis or financial tasks.
• Shortlisting efficiency: Can quickly identify candidates who meet the minimum numerical competency for the job.

Why they're used in hiring:

Many roles, even outside of finance or accounting, require some level of numerical ability. For example, marketing professionals might need to analyze sales data or calculate campaign budgets. Numerical reasoning tests help employers assess if candidates have the basic foundation to handle those aspects of the job.

Are they perfect?

There's some debate about the fairness and effectiveness of numerical reasoning tests.

• Limited scope: They don't assess all the skills needed for a job, and some argue they disadvantage candidates with strong analytical skills but weak test-taking abilities.
• Cultural bias: May disadvantage candidates whose educational background or culture hasn't emphasized certain numerical skills.

Overall:

Numerical reasoning tests are a common tool in the hiring process. While they're not perfect, they can help employers identify candidates with a basic level of numerical competency relevant to the job.

If you're preparing for a job that might include a numerical reasoning test, practicing with sample questions is a good way to improve your performance