Companies are relying on aptitude and personality tests more to combat AI-powered job hunters

As the job market evolves, candidates like Katelin Eagan, 27, are finding themselves navigating a complex hiring landscape. Recently, while applying for an engineering position, Eagan was required to complete a cognitive and personality assessment that left her perplexed with questions seemingly unrelated to the role. Despite her extensive job search since the beginning of the year, she faced yet another rejection, attributing her struggles to the intense competition in her field and a shift in employer expectations. The influx of applicants, many of whom potentially enhance their resumes using AI tools, has prompted companies to adopt more stringent hiring practices. Recruiters and assessment providers are reporting a significant rise in the use of tests to discern genuine talent from what appears to be polished applications. According to surveys by TestGorilla, a company specializing in talent assessments, a staggering 76% of employers who hired in the past year utilized skills tests—up from 55% in 2022. Employers are particularly keen on evaluating soft skills and cognitive abilities. Wouter Durville, CEO of TestGorilla, noted a remarkable 61% increase in the completion of their Critical Thinking test in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2024. Additionally, their Big 5 personality assessment saw a 69% rise, indicating a growing emphasis on understanding candidates beyond their technical skills. The demand for assessments has surged, especially in the U.S., where companies are inundated with applications. Durville mentioned that this trend is largely driven by employers' desire to identify the best talent amidst an overwhelming number of candidates. Similarly, Guy Barel, CEO of Canditech, reported a 135% growth in assessment usage in 2024, contributing to a more competitive hiring environment. Hiring assessments are not just a passing trend; they are becoming essential tools for employers looking to streamline their hiring processes. Criteria, another provider of skills assessments, revealed that their usage has more than doubled in recent years. The prevalence of AI in job applications has created an 'authenticity crisis' in talent acquisition, according to Criteria's CEO, Josh Millet. With many candidates using AI to enhance their resumes, testing helps demonstrate genuine skills and personalities in a way that is harder to manipulate. Amidst this backdrop, veteran recruiter Jeff Hyman observed a 50% increase in demand for testing from his clients over the past 18 months. He notes that the sheer volume of applications—often exceeding 1,000 for a single position—has led many companies to prioritize testing as a way to quickly identify suitable candidates. The trend toward remote work has further amplified the need to assess soft skills, ensuring that new hires align with company culture. However, there are concerns about the over-reliance on testing. Hyman cautioned against dismissing qualified candidates based solely on test scores, as it can lead to missed opportunities for valuable hires. He estimates that 10%-20% of applicants may refuse to take tests if introduced as a first step in the hiring process, which could deter potential talent. In conclusion, while assessments can provide significant advantages in the hiring process, organizations must balance their usage with a holistic view of candidates to avoid the pitfalls of 'lazy hiring.' The evolving job market demands a nuanced approach to recruitment, ensuring that the best candidates are not overlooked in the quest for efficiency.