How to Pass Aptitude Tests and Ace Job Interviews in Uganda

Adapt or Fail: Why Adaptability Beats Intelligence in Real-World Job Tests
The excitement of graduation hugged James and Peter warmly, the same way it does most of us. Hardly a week after graduation, these Old Boys of the same secondary school, and former course mates at the same University, sent out numerous job applications to various companies and Government institutions.

And they were lucky (although they deserved it based on their grades) to be called in for a number of interviews. A year down the road, neither of them had been called back after the interviews, and frustration started kicking in.

They both believed that they were meticulously answering the questions set, going systematically from one onto the next, and acing the interviews. Although both candidates had adequately prepared before the interview, time never seemed to be enough during the aptitude tests, being cut short halfway, and sometimes three-quarters into the test.

Last week, these gallant Old Boys were yet again invited for an interview, and bumped into each other in the waiting lounge just before the interview. Catching up on how life after school was treating them, Peter silently reflected on how academically brilliant James was all through their education journey.

James had never gone beyond the third overall class position, frequently oscillating between the first and second positions. So Peter assumed the single job slot available, in the highest probability, would go to James.

Settling in for the aptitude test, they had gone at it earnestly, albeit differently. James read the questions thoroughly, answering them sequentially, not proceeding to the next question before answering the one preceding it. That he did not have the answer, was out of the question. And answer the questions he did, at the cost of time.

Peter, on the other hand, this time round, first read through all the questions, answering those that came easy to him first, then coming back to answer those that seemed difficult initially. For those questions that he had no clue about, he guessed, circling randomly as the clock counted down to the dying minutes of the aptitude test.

As the invigilator called out for them to stop, Peter panicked, rushing to answer as many more questions as possible before resignedly putting his pen down. James, in comparison, relaxedly handed in his questionnaire. He had done his best with the questions he knew, and left the rest to guesstimates.

The following week, Peter got the call, congratulating him on his new position at the company. Meanwhile, James is still sending out resumes. Peter had adapted and changed his mode of operation as regards answering interview questions, James had not. This difference in approach from Peter and James often time is a reflection what happens in other aspects of our lives.

How To Pass Aptitude Tests in Uganda
It is a harsh reality that intelligence is not always the key to survival. In fact, adaptability often times proves to be a more valuable asset in the real world. While we revere intelligence as a virtue, it can sometimes be a liability. Do not just be book-smart, be street-smart too.

Aptitude tests require this flexible Smartness. These tests can be difficult because they assess an array of skills in a limited time period. Assessing areas such as numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, inductive reasoning, deductive reasoning, critical reasoning and situational judgment. However, as much as aptitude tests can be difficult to ace, it is very possible to do so with flying colours.

Do not cheat. If you cheat, it will eventually be realised. Since the aptitude test is taken to determine one’s competence in a certain area, cheating will oversell you. And your incompetence in that area will soon be realised.

Practice regularly. Before the interview, go online and check out the various aptitude tests available. Take a test or two to have a feel of what it’s like. Acquaint yourself with how they are, so that you aren’t shocked by some of the questions in your final aptitude test for your job interview.

Be Alert. On the day you go for the interview, ensure you’ve had enough rest and your mind is alert. Aptitude tests are timed, so any slip of the mind will cost you time. Since time is of the essence, your mind must stay focused on the aptitude test and not on the lawn mower that reminds you of your brother’s snore.

Pay Attention to Instructions. Misfiring questions because of misinterpretations is a very common reason behind aptitude test failure. Even when in a hurry to finish, spare some time to properly understand every question. This will save you.

Here are a few aptitude test questions for you to try out.

How to Ace Any Job Interview in Uganda
Street Smartness – To thrive, one needs more than just brains; they need street smarts. Smart people know when to change tact, when to speak up and when to keep quiet. They understand how to work with others, building strong relationships and navigating tricky situations. They also know that knowledge is only powerful if used with kindness, persuasion and timing.

First Impression – Let your dress code make a good impression before you say anything. When you eventually get to introducing yourself, it should be a reflection of your outfit: classy, exotic and professional. Above all, be punctual, arrive at the right time and not on time. This means getting to the agreed location thirty minutes or an hour before the stipulated time. Arriving early gives you time to prepare, it allows you to get comfortable before the interview and most importantly, gives the best impression to your potential employer.

Maintain Composure – Even when you have no answer to the question asked, remain calm and politely ask for the question to be rephrased. This will allow you some more time to think through an appropriate answer. Sit up straight and regularly make eye contact with the person addressing you. Do not forget to smile. Smiling can go a long way in cooling your nerves. Smiling also shows that you are at ease, thus giving you some sort of confidence.

Do Not Lie – By the time you’ve been called in for the interview, extensive research and background checks on you have been made. So, do not lie, because they will know. Be your most authentic self. Remember, they are looking to understand you better through the interview. Presenting the most genuine you makes them understand you better.

Prepare Yourself – Research extensively about your potential employer. And before the interview, take note of key points to mention during the interview. Be knowledgeable about the company’s vision, mission and the expectations your employees have of you.

Job interviews are nerve-racking and unpredictable. They can take all sorts of turns. Your employer may choose to make it casual, invite you for lunch and focus solely on having light banter. That in itself is an interview as well and shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Remember, one of the main reasons job interviews exist is to get to know potential employees better. So sell yourself, but do it moderately.

Do not let the world grind you down. Learn to read the room, to bend without breaking, and think three steps ahead. Intelligence gets you noticed, but smartness keeps you making progress.

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Compiled by Alfred Galandi