Job Searching

I passed out of NYSC about a month ago. I have been back to Lagos since then. Upon my return, I have written a couple of aptitude tests for a few companies. For those who don't know, when you apply to an entry evel position with most companies, if not all, you are required to write an aptitude test. Those who are successful at this level move on to the interview stage and so on...

Now, I've written about 5-7 or so and the formats for these tests vary. They usually comprise of verbal reasoning, quantitative/qualitative reasoning and current affairs/general knowledge questions. Some require you to write essays, usually nothing too lengthy. They are always timed, which makes it a bit more challenging. 

Needless to say that some are easier than others. For example, Shell and Unilever tests I wrote online were disastrous. I found them ridiculously difficult. They were like proper math questions, some of which I could solve the amateur way, which would take me longer than the allocated 30-45 seconds per questions. 

I don't know if others agree but these tests are probably the worst ways to decide who to employ. Just because you cannot pass these tests doesn't mean you don't have the qualities needed to succeed at the position. The tests usually don't even mimic the position you are applying for. I mean, you are applying for an entry level Human Resources position and you have to pass GMATS math questions, it's like "what da f$&k?!" Once you fail, you cannot re-write for another 6 - 12 months. But I get why this is the procedure. We are toooo many in Nigeria and when an opportunity comes up, I can imagine how many qualified applicants each company would have. They can't possibly interview every single individual, as such, this is an effective way to shortlist. 

The companies I've tested for are as follows:

Shell - failed 

Cadbury - no communication after the test

GT Bank - Passed but I heard they will take a very long time to start interviews and what not

Mansard Insurance - Passed but still waiting for an interview

GT Homes - Passed & interviewed but still waiting 

Unilever - Failed

(An organization I won't mention) - Passed & interviewed but still waiting 

Skye Bank - Wrote it a couple of days ago. Still waiting for results. 

The recruitment processes is just a drag. They take so long at times that you forget you had any encounter with the company.  

I'm still thankful anyhow cuz some people haven't even had the opportunity to test or interview for any company since we passed out of NYSC and on the other hand, some people already had jobs waiting for them before NYSC was over. The story of life. 

I'm just praying to start something shortly cuz sitting on the couch and not hating Mondays or TGIFing is getting boring.

~kdamsel~