How do Indeed assessments and skill test ranking work?

This article provides tips and answers to common questions about Indeed skills tests and Indeed Assessments. Should you take them or ignore them when applying for a job? How do they work? Read along.

What are applicant assessment tests and why are they important?

Applicant assessment tests, also known as pre-employment tests, are tools used by hiring managers to determine if a candidate possesses the necessary skills, work style, knowledge, or personality for a job role. These tests can be important in the hiring process, particularly in the early stages, as they may offer a standardized and objective method of evaluating candidates. The assessments range from cognitive and aptitude tests to personality, emotional intelligence, and skills tests. They are particularly useful in managing large applicant pools, which is common in today’s job market, where a single job posting can receive hundreds of job applications.

How do Indeed Assessments work? 

Indeed Assessments provide a platform for job seekers to demonstrate specific hard and soft skills, with scores appearing on their Indeed profiles. These tests, which cover over 150 skill areas, can be taken at an employer’s request or voluntarily to enhance a job seeker’s profile. High scores showcase the candidate is highly proficient in a specific skill and can improve a candidate’s visibility on Indeed, increasing their chances of being noticed by potential employers. However, scores are valid for only six months, after which they can be retaken.

What are the limitations of Indeed Assessments?

While Indeed assessments can showcase a candidate’s skills, they have limitations. The assessments are timed, and if exited mid-way, the timer continues. Once taken proactively, they can’t be retaken immediately. If an employer requests an assessment, the score is valid for six months. Also, assessments can’t be removed from a resume but can be hidden from employers’ view. It’s important to note that not all employers use these assessments, and they do not provide a comprehensive view of a candidate’s skills or background.

What are the types of Indeed skills tests? 

1. Hard Skills: These assessments often focus on technical or specific job-related skills. For example, a coding test for a software developer role might require solving programming problems, or a financial analyst might be assessed on their ability to work with complex data sets in Excel.
2. Soft Skills: These assessments evaluate interpersonal and cognitive skills. For instance, a leadership skills test might involve situational judgment questions to assess decision-making and team management skills, or a communication skills test could include evaluating responses to hypothetical workplace scenarios.

How do the Indeed skills tests complement the application process?

Skill assessments complement the job application process by providing an objective measure of applicants’ abilities.   Hard skill assessments evaluate technical competencies relevant to the job, ensuring candidates possess the necessary expertise. Soft skill assessments measure interpersonal and cognitive abilities, essential for team dynamics and workplace adaptability. Together, they offer a comprehensive view of a candidate’s fit for the role, beyond what resumes and interviews can convey. This leads to more informed hiring decisions, as recruiters screen applicants and may increase your chances of showcasing unique and required qualifications.

How long does It take to complete an Indeed Assessment?

Indeed skills assessments typically take 10 minutes or less, but some may be longer, especially if multiple test modules are combined. It’s recommended to set aside 30 minutes for uninterrupted focus to make sure you complete an assessment. 

Can you check your assessment score?

Assessment results requested by employers are viewable only by that employer. Your score is saved for six months, and if invited by another employer for the same assessment, you can share your previous results. You can take the assessment again every six months if needed.

What are the Indeed skills test rankings (score categories)?

The scoring method for Indeed Assessments has been updated and now includes only two levels: ‘Proficient’ and ‘Completed.’ The ‘Proficient’ score is awarded when a candidate demonstrates adequate knowledge and skills in the assessment. On the other hand, the ‘Completed’ score is assigned when a candidate finishes the assessment but does not meet the proficiency criteria. Additionally, if a candidate starts an assessment but does not complete it, they will receive an ‘Incomplete’ score.

How do I know the type of assessments used in a job post?

In the job post you’re interested in, check the required skills section and choose ‘View all assessments’ to find the relevant Indeed skills tests for that particular job.

How can I identify which Indeed assessments I should take, and what are the steps to find them?

To choose the right Indeed assessments, follow these steps:

1. Sign in to Indeed.com: Log into your Indeed account and navigate to your resume or profile page.
2. Locate Assessments Section: Scroll down to the ‘Assessments’ section at the bottom of the page.
3. Identify Relevant Skills: Review the job descriptions you’re interested in and note the required skills.
4. Search for Assessments: Use the ‘View all assessments’ option to find tests matching these skills.
5. Select Assessments: Choose to take assessments that align with the skills and abilities mentioned in job postings.
6. Start the Assessment: Click on ‘Take Assessment’ for your chosen tests and then ‘Start Assessment’.

Frequently asked questions on Indeed assessment ranking

FAQs on Indeed assessment results

Have Indeed assessments changed the scoring?

Yes, Indeed assessments has updated its scoring system. The new scoring framework simplifies the evaluation of a candidate’s proficiency in a specific skill area. The updated system primarily includes two levels: ‘Proficient’ and ‘Completed.’ This change aims to provide a clearer and more straightforward understanding of a candidate’s abilities to employers. The ‘Proficient’ score indicates that a candidate has demonstrated adequate knowledge and skills in the assessment, while a ‘Completed’ score is assigned when a candidate finishes the assessment but does not meet the proficiency standards. This update reflects Indeed’s commitment to making the assessment results more accessible and interpretable for both job seekers and employers.

What are Indeed Assessment results rankings?

Indeed Assessment Results Rankings categorize a candidate’s performance in the assessments. The rankings help employers quickly understand how well a candidate has performed relative to the required skills for a job. The two primary levels are ‘Proficient’ and ‘Completed.’ A ‘Proficient’ ranking indicates that the candidate has demonstrated adequate knowledge and skills in the assessment, while ‘Completed’ suggests completion of the test without meeting the proficiency standards. Additionally, if a candidate starts an assessment but does not finish, they receive an ‘Incomplete’ score.

What does ‘Proficient’ mean on Indeed?

On Indeed, ‘Proficient’ is one of the scoring categories in the Assessment Results Rankings. When a candidate receives a ‘Proficient’ score, it signifies that they have shown a satisfactory level of knowledge and skills in the assessment area. This ranking is an indicator to employers that the candidate has met or exceeded the basic requirements for the skill being tested.

What does ‘proficient’ mean on Indeed, and is proficient good on Indeed tests?

Achieving a proficient score on Indeed tests generally indicates that the candidate has a solid understanding and competent level of skill in the area being assessed. For those wondering, “Is proficient good on Indeed?” the answer is yes. A proficient score suggests that the candidate meets or exceeds the expected standard for the skill in question. This can be reassuring for both job seekers and employers as it reflects a certain level of proficiency and reliability.

When exploring what proficient means on Indeed, it’s helpful to consider the context provided by the platform’s proficiency scale. The Indeed proficient score is part of a broader ranking system that categorizes candidates based on their performance.

Proficient usually sits above the average performance level, signifying that the candidate has performed better than a significant portion of test-takers. This can be particularly important when employers are sifting through numerous applications, as it helps them identify candidates who have demonstrated reliable skills.

Indeed skills test proficient meaning is crucial for job seekers to understand. Scoring proficient means that you have demonstrated a thorough understanding of the skills required for the job. This can be particularly advantageous when employers look at your Indeed skills test ratings to make hiring decisions.

Do employers look at Indeed assessments?

Yes, Indeed assessment results help employers filter applicants for interviews. Some employers compare your test results to those of high-performing employees at their company, while others simply require a minimum passing score.

How do I do well on Indeed assessments?

To perform well on Indeed assessments, familiarize yourself with the job skills being tested. Practice through similar online tests, ensure you’re in a quiet environment while taking the assessment, and carefully follow instructions. Also, take your time to answer each question thoughtfully.

Can I see my assessment scores on Indeed?

Yes, after completing an Indeed assessment, you can view your scores on your Indeed profile. Some assessments provide a percentage score, while others might categorize results based on skill levels like “Proficient” or “Expert.”

Can you still get hired if you fail an assessment test?

Yes, failing an Indeed assessment does not automatically disqualify you from a job. Some employers may still consider your application even if you did not pass the assessment, depending on other factors like your experience, skills, and interview performance.

Are Indeed assessments difficult?

The difficulty of Indeed assessments varies depending on the test and the job requirements. Some assessments are straightforward and focused on basic job skills, while others can be more complex and technical. It’s always good to prepare and review related materials before taking the test.