Employee Assessments - Why and How

Depending on what field you're in, employers may ask you to complete an assessment of some sort.  This could be anything from a basic aptitude test to a skills assessment or case study and can be before or after an interview.  This is usually a large factor in whether or not you're hired, so make sure you do your best work.

If instructions are given, make sure you follow them.  Talk to your recruiter about expectations, what it takes to pass, and when it must be completed by.  If it's a timed assessment (most online tests are), make sure you can give your undivided attention, and don't run up your time doing other things.

Take home tests: If it's an assessment you can do at home, make sure you give it your undivided attention.  As a recruiter I would much rather a candidate ask to turn in an assessment a day late, than rush through it and fail.

Excuses recruiters don't want to hear: I wanted to turn it in as soon as possible; I don't test well, I was sick; I was on medication; I couldn't concentrate.  All of these things are in your control.  If you need more time, ask for an extension!

Tests onsite: Ask you recruiter if there's anything you can do to prepare for the test, if yes then do it!  If there's nothing you can do to prepare then don't freak out and just make sure you read the instructions and each question carefully.