Interview with IT Skills Test

Silversudz

Hi guys,

I have an interview next week for a part time administrator role within a community organisation.

Told a white lie on cv and said I have experience in computerised payroll as it was essential criteria. Out of wrk for a yr so will try anything to get job!

I have a half a clue about payroll. Never thought they would have a 30 min IT Skills test for P/T admin job - is this not a bit extreme? Do you think they will test me on their payroll system?

I am proficient in the full microsoft office suite so no worries there and have all other essential criteria required.

Wht should I say if I get caught out on payroll system? Bluff my way through?

the_syco

Silversudz wrote: »

Do you think they will test me on their payroll system?

Silversudz wrote: »

a community organisation.

If it was an essential criteria, then me thinks it'll be what you'll be supporting a lot of the time.

Silversudz wrote: »

Wht should I say if I get caught out on payroll system? Bluff my way through?

Do, and you won't get the job.

Silversudz wrote: »

Out of wrk for a yr so will try anything to get job!

Then I'd advise you to get the software somehow, and use it for the next week or so. Also, get a book on how to use it from the customers perspective, as well as a book on how to fix it.

Sleepy

Did you say you'd used a specific package?

If not, look up a few packages and when they ask about it, say you used the most obscure one you come accross and hope for the best!

Anti

Jut say you used SAP, chances are the place your going wont have it.

genie_us

I'd be honest, say you've basic experience with them, you don't know theirs in particular but you're a very fast learner etc

Silversudz

Hi OP here,

Thanks for the advice on this just downloaded trial version of Sage Quick Pay and the user manual. Will have a go at learning the basics. Fingers crossed now I get the job!

miec

Hi Op

Most jobs advertised either use Sage or TAS books so try either of those and maintain that you used these packages. I would urge you in future though not to stretch the truth out in this way because pretty much all companies are testing people now for all types of jobs. Its a bummer but they are working on the basis of weeding out the unwanted through any means. A couple of years ago it wouldn't have mattered. Best of luck and let us know how you got on.

the_syco

Silversudz wrote: »

Hi OP here

Let us know if it goes well.

Silversudz

Hi Guys,

I had my interview thismorning and luckily enough they only tested Word, Excel and Access. They had all interviewees save their test files to the same folder on desktop so there were about 5 people before me but I was the only one who saved an access file so thats good.

They asked me if I had worked with a computerised payroll package and I said Thesaurus- end of discussion.

So eveything went well there, but you just know when you're at an interview and you get that vibe that you're wasting your time there? They've already discounted you for whatever reason and are just filling a time slot! And believe me I've been at enough interviews to know. Well that's the feeling I got damn them anyhow! I suppose it didn't help that I'm way overqualified for the job in everyway but payroll and don't live in the area!

Back to the drawing board but you never know miracles can happen and at least I have more interview experience now!