Public Relations Test

When looking to fill a public relations position, it's important to make sure that the candidate has the skills necessary to do the job. A public relations skills test can help ensure that the candidate is a good fit for the position.

  • What is a public relations skills test?

    A public relations test helps employers better understand which candidates in their applicant pool have the skills and aptitudes needed to succeed in the public relations field. These include communication, time management, and interpersonal skills.

    The test is formed of a series of multiple-choice, scenario-based questions that can be easily administered to a large volume of applicants. The results can be used to compare the skillset and strengths of individuals; those that perform well can then be progressed to the following stages of the recruitment process.

    This makes the public relations skills test a beneficial and cost-effective recruitment tool when used in the earlier stages of the recruitment process.

Identify the best candidates and hire faster

Our pre-employment tests let you drill down to the best candidates at the click of a button.

  • Find those candidates who will excel in the role.

    Select the assessments that match the skills or behaviours for the position. You can test for software or coding competency, soft skills like teamwork, or personality traits, to be sure those who pass have high potential.

  • Reduce costs and time.

    No more laborious sifting of resumes or cover letters. Pick your ideal assessment mix, invite your applicants to take them, see the results in your dashboard. Get to the interview stage fast.

  • Eliminate bias.

    All your candidates take the assessments on a level playing field. Only their results determine whether they get shortlisted.

  • What are the benefits of using the public relations skills test for pre-screening?

    To succeed in the PR field, individuals must demonstrate a wide range of skills and abilities. Those who work in the PR field represent an organization's public image, and advice its senior management.

    To be successful in the role, those that work in PR must be able to effectively communicate with others, such as the media, articulating the key messages on behalf of an individual or organization.

    The role also involves extensive writing such as reports, press releases, or statements in line with the appropriate communication strategy to meet deadlines. Individuals must also demonstrate adaptability and time management skills.

    The public relations skills test evaluates candidates on these skills, giving a greater insight into their abilities and skill set.

    When used in the early stages of the recruitment process, the results gained from the test enable recruiters to compare candidates' skill levels in each of the areas needed for success in PR.

    This helps recruiters to make bias-free decisions on which applicants are most suitable to progress to the next stage.

    The skills required to be efficient in the PR field are also needed by individuals in other roles, such as

    • Marketing Assistant

    • Marketing Manager

    • Public affairs assistant

    • Public affairs manager

    • Social media manager

    • Publicist

How our test measures public relations skills

Test questions are designed to assess industry-specific technical skills, soft skills, aptitude and suitable personality dimensions. Our data-driven approach provides results that enable you to determine how suited is a candidate for the role.

Depending on the type of question, the format of the test may vary. Multiple-choice questions are used to measure aptitude, technical skills and soft skills, while agreement on a Likert scale assesses suitable personality dimensions. Skills tests ensure that candidates are being evaluated in a precise and impartial manner, their results demonstrating the true knowledge and potential of each test taker.

The characteristics required to become a public relations professional were determined by looking at the skills and abilities listed in the US Department of Labor’s O*NET database, which collects data from professionals in various fields.

O*NET is the largest database of its kind, providing detailed information about occupations and the requirements for each role.

Our team of I/O psychologists and psychometrics worked closely with subject-matter experts to create an extensive question bank that can be used to test multiple candidates. We also conducted rigorous field testing with a representative sample of candidates to ensure that the questions were reliable and valid.

Test scores are averaged together to give an overall score. The average score is compared to other candidates' scores to ensure there is no bias toward certain candidates.

Our public relations test is constantly updated and optimized to ensure the best experience and results.

Validated

Predictor of job success

Picked provides evidence-based recommendations for tests to use for over 750 jobs. Our recommendation engine leverages data from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) developed by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
  • Assessments

    A full suite of assessments

    Our platform comes with 12 tests across both foundation and advanced levels so they’re suitable for everyone. Including aptitude, behavioural and personality tests, you’ll have a full range of tests to help you find the candidates you’re seeking.

  • Analytics

    An array of candidate metrics

    For each of your candidates, you’ll be given a comprehensive report. Included will be all the metrics you need to build a detailed picture of each candidate and ensure you’re making the right hiring decisions.

“The platform is so simple to use. I had used competitor providers for over six years and will never go back. Fast, efficient and friendly!”
Greg Chambers, HR Business Partner, Littlefish Ltd
Greg Chambers, HR Business Partner, Littlefish Ltd

Public Relations Test FAQs

What are the most important skills in public relations?

The most important skills for those working in public relations include time management, communication, and interpersonal skills. Attention to detail and creativity are also beneficial skills that enable an individual to perform effectively in the role.

How difficult is the public relations test?

The public relations skills test thoroughly evaluates whether an individual demonstrates the skills needed to work in the public relations field. To do well in the test, candidates have to remain calm, answer the questions honestly, and consider what is essential for success in this field.

Can I see what the test is like?

Yes, of course. You can try the test for free by signing up for a free trial.

Are these tests available in my plan?

We have a range of plans available. The difference between the plans is the number of test attempts permitted, not the type of tests. All our plans include our full test suite comprising all tests and all levels.

“An unbeatable service, impressive platform and fantastic value for money.”
Laurence Fishman, Partner, NLPCA
Laurence Fishman, Partner, NLPCA

Ready to try Test Candidates?

Compare your next great hires today

Try for free