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Topic: Edit Tests
| Author | Message |
| Unplugged | Posted – 8/3/2007 9:53:47 PM | show profile | email poster I am applying for an editorial job and was given something like an edit test (not line editing, but performing numerous editorial/creative/research tasks) and given a certain length of time in which to do it. It happened to be a time when I was extremely busy and had only a limited amount of time to devote to the project--which in my view was very time-consuming because it involved things I have no direct experience with. I had to do a lot of research and background work just to catch up with others who've been on this beat all along. I did the project and did what I think is an adequate job. However, I know I could have done much better had it been at another point in my life--several major events were taking place at the same time, including a residence move, which gave me limited computer access, and outside work I needed to complete. Are there any hiring managers out there who could give me some insight into how these tests are weighed, and whether employers take into account that life circumstances might have interfered with one's ability to devote adequate time to the project? There was a lot of internet research involved and I simply didn't have much time to do a thorough job. Also, one look at my resume would show that this is not my primary beat; however, I could certainly catch up in very little time, and my overall experience and skill level would more than make up for any lack of direct experience. Would this be a consideration, or does the performance on the test make or break you? Thanks for any insights you might have to offer. |
| Unplugged | Posted – 8/3/2007 9:55:53 PM | show profile I should add I was given several days to complete the task--but several days that were already jam-packed! |
| Upward Bound | Posted – 8/4/2007 12:28:02 PM | show profile It's hard to say how any one hiring manager will weight an edit test. Some will hire the person who does the best on it and others will hire the person who shows the most potential in the position as long as they at least do an adequate job on the test. On the one hand, you might want to explain that you were busy at the time, but on the other, you don't know if doing so will label you as someone who is constantly making excuses. My instinct would be to relax and get your mind off of it. Hopefully you've sent a thank you note after interviewing/testing. Other than that, there's not a whole lot you can do except follow up after a week or two to see if a decision has been made yet. Good luck! I'm also job hunting now and know how stressful it is! |
