Recommended tests for assessing banking skills
There are several tests that can be used to evaluate individuals on whether they demonstrate the skills and abilities required for the banking sector. These tests are a comprehensive assessment of each individual aptitude, the results indicating an individual’s proficiency in this ability.
Numerical reasoning test
Numerical reasoning is essential in any banking role, given that data used to make decisions in banking is primarily financially related. The numerical reasoning test evaluates individuals' ability to use numerical data to solve problems.
The test assesses individuals' ability to use basic mathematical principles such as fractions, percentages, and ratios to identify which of the multiple-choice answers is the correct solution to the given problem. This test is timed; questions are shown in the form of graphs, tables, or charts.
Diagrammatic reasoning test
The diagrammatic reasoning test is a form of logical reasoning assessment. This test determines whether individuals can make sense of non-verbal information, identify sequences or relationships, and use this information to solve problems.
Questions are presented as shapes, patterns, or sequences. Candidates need to determine the link between the pieces of information. Once identified, candidates select what they believe to be the correct answer from the list given.
The test assesses an individual’s inductive logic. As the test is timed, candidates are put under extra pressure to ensure they make quick decisions, a situation they will face in any banking role when presented with various sources of information requiring them to make a logical decision.
Verbal reasoning test
Verbal reasoning is a critical aptitude needed for roles in the banking industry. The ability to read through information, determine the key points, and use this to make rational decisions on behalf of a client or the company you work for applies to all roles within banking.
Questions in the verbal reasoning test are given as short passages of information. Candidates must read and understand the meaning of the information before deciding whether the statements that follow are false, true, or they can not say, based on the information they have read.
Time management test
Having the skill to manage your time is essential in any client-based role. Ensuring you meet deadlines, complete work to a high quality, and juggle multiple tasks is common in a fast-paced environment such as the banking sector.
The time management skills test evaluates individuals' ability to manage time, meet deadlines, and prioritize tasks appropriately. The test uses situations that individuals may face when in the role to determine their skills in time management.
Questions are timed and multiple-choice, ensuring recruiters clearly understand whether individuals can effectively manage their time, make quick decisions, and work to a high standard when faced with competing priorities.
Situational judgment test
The situational judgment test gives employers a better understanding of how an individual reacts in the workplace. The test looks at how they approach and deal with situations and their reactions to scenarios they are likely to face in a working environment.
The situational judgement test uses hypothetical situations to evaluate skills such as communication, time management, or teamworking in given situations.
Comprising of a series of short text-based questions, candidates select which of the responses best represents how they would react in the given situation.
Using common workplace scenarios enables recruiters to determine whether an individual has the soft skills needed to succeed in the role, helping to distinguish suitable candidates from those with similar background experiences.