Basic Computer Skills Assessment: Why, What, and How to Test
Ken Crowell
Ken Crowell
Basic computer skills are fundamental for using a computer well. They include working with different operating systems, word-processing software, spreadsheet tools, communication platforms, and the Internet.
Many people think these skills are necessary nowadays, and it’s no surprise. Most jobs (92%) require some level of digital knowledge. But, one-third of workers still lack basic computer skills.
These figures show how important it is for employers to make sure their staff understands basic computer operations. Using a computer skills assessment test can help.
Let’s discuss the importance of evaluating basic computer skills during hiring to help you implement these computer competency tests. In turn, you make sure your team has the basic computer skills needed to progress in the modern workplace.
Jump to Section
- What is a Basic Computer Skills Assessment Test?
- Types of Basic Computer Skills to Assess When Hiring
- Why Use Basic Computer Skills Test When Hiring?
- How to Test Basic Computer Skills in Hiring
What is a Basic Computer Skills Assessment Test?
A basic computer skills assessment test for employment checks how well someone can use essential digital tools like word processing software, spreadsheets, and email.
A typical basic computer literacy test for employment includes practical tasks. The test require candidates to identify specific tools’ functions or solve simple computer problems. For example, candidates might be asked to create a document in Microsoft Word or download files from the Internet.
The primary goal of a computer literacy and internet knowledge test is to help hiring managers see if candidates have the necessary computer skills. It makes sure new hires can start effectively working right away, minimizing the time and money spent on training.
Also, a computer proficiency test helps identify skill gaps and training needs among existing employees so you can provide the required training.
Types of Basic Computer Skills to Assess When Hiring
A pre-employment computer skills test is essential for streamlining the hiring process and making sure that candidates are proficient with computers. When designing your test, consider evaluating the following competencies.
Word processing
Knowing how to use programs like Microsoft Word and Google Docs is important for many jobs. Candidates should be able to write and edit text, insert images, create tables, and use advanced formatting features like styles and templates. It helps new hires manage documents well, which is a common task in administrative, marketing, and managerial positions.
Email and communication
Email might seem old-fashioned now because of social media and other ways to communicate with coworkers. But did you know that 91% of employees use email to communicate? So, it’s important to check if a candidate has good email usage skills, including knowing email etiquette, managing contacts, and keeping their inbox organized.
Spreadsheets
Many people find spreadsheets scary, but they are important for jobs in data entry, analytics, and financial management. Candidates should know how to use Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and Apple Numbers to create tables, use formulas, make charts, and analyze data.
Operating systems
Operating system knowledge can impact computer usage, making it essential to understand various versions. Candidates should show they can do tasks like install software, use file managers, tell various file types apart, and fix basic problems on multiple systems.
Given that 72.17% of all desktops run Microsoft Windows, it’s a good idea to test each candidate’s skill with it. But, if your workplace mainly uses the Google Suite, you should also check those skills instead.
Cybersecurity awareness
Data breaches in US organizations went up by 20% from 2022 to 2023, so it’s important that all employees understand cybersecurity best practices. Candidates should know how to spot fake websites and messages, create strong passwords, and follow basic rules for keeping data safe.
Why Use a Basic Computer Skills Test When Hiring?
The following advantages of adding a basic computer skills test into your hiring processes will help you build a more competent and engaged workforce.
Improve hiring accuracy
Traditional hiring methods often rely on subjective assessments and self-reported skills. Because 70% of workers admit to lying on their resumes, it’s hard to trust these methods. A skills test is a better way to see if candidates can really do what’s needed for the job.
With a computer skills test, you can directly check if they have the skills for the role, reducing the chance of hiring someone who isn’t qualified. It helps you make better hiring decisions, makes sure candidates can meet job expectations, and often means they’ll need less training.
Enhance productivity
Employees who are skilled in basic computer tasks work more efficiently, make fewer errors, and need less training. It’s especially important for jobs that heavily depend on computer use, such as administrative, customer service, and data entry roles.
Making sure that new hires have basic computer skills helps streamline workflows, allows them to adapt quickly to your company’s systems, and keeps productivity high.
Standardize hiring processes
An excellent recruitment process is fair to all applicants. Using a standard basic computer skills test is a great way to do this. It makes sure that every candidate is judged by the same criteria, which helps remove hiring biases. Plus, a standard test makes it easier to compare candidates by their test scores, helping you make more fair hiring choices.
Identify skill gaps
You might be surprised to learn that 87% of companies have a skills gap, and yours could be one of them. It happens because many workers don’t always tell the truth on their resumes. It’s important to fix this issue to keep your company strong and running smoothly.
Regularly testing your employees with basic computer skills assessments can help you find out where they need more training. For example, they might need to learn about new software updates or better cybersecurity practices. This way, you can make sure your team stays up-to-date with the latest technology and standards.
Establish alignment
Each candidate’s skills should align with their job requirements. Luckily, a basic computer skills test helps you verify that you have the specific competencies needed for the role. Such alignment is essential for positions requiring specialized skills or working with particular software, such as spreadsheets.
When employees’ skills match their job requirements, they’re more likely to perform well and collaborate better with the rest of the team. There’s also less chance of them becoming dissatisfied with their work and, in turn, leaving the job.
How to Test Basic Computer Skills in Hiring
Consider implementing these methods to make sure your new hires have the necessary skills to thrive in your organization and contribute to its success.
1. Leverage customized tests
Design tests that check for the specific skills you need, like knowing how to use certain software or tools for your industry. This way, you can focus on the skills that are most important to your company. For example, if the job needs a lot of Microsoft Excel use, make a test that focuses on managing spreadsheets, analyzing data, and using formulas.
2. Use online assessment platforms
Don’t want to create a test from scratch? Online assessment platforms make it much easier by providing tests that cover various basic computer skills. These platforms typically have built-in scoring and reporting features, which allow you to quickly compare candidates’ performance and find the best ones. Plus, they’re great for remote work setups!
3. Add practical task projects
Create work projects and situations that candidates will face on the job. It means you will give the candidate an actual simulated project, such as fully designing an Excel sheet to completion and require them to show you the multiple steps, as you watch. It shows if they can do the exact job that will be needed, as well as a glimpse if they can work under pressure.
4. Implement skills-based interview questions
During the initial interview, ask questions about their computer skills. These questions can focus on job-specific scenarios, such as organizing a complex spreadsheet, using certain software, or fixing common computer problems. This approach allows you to assess their comprehension of practical tasks from the start.
Hire the Right People with EmployTest
Including basic computer skills assessments in your hiring process can really help your organization. You want to hire the right people for the job, and making sure they have the right computer skills is key to long-term success in today’s digital world.
Want to equip your team with the essential computer skills needed to achieve results? Reach out to EmployTest for various skills assessment tests designed to meet your needs. With our help, you can build a more skilled, productive, and future-ready workforce.
Check out our basic computer skills tests, or try our free sample test today!
