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RE: On-the-spot writing test during a job interview?
Subject:RE: On-the-spot writing test during a job interview? From:"John David Hickey" <dave -at- toonboom -dot- com> To:"Techwr-L" <techwr-l -at- lists -dot- raycomm -dot- com> Date:Fri, 12 Nov 1999 17:29:35 -0500
Greetings!
> It's true that a writing test will apply pressure to those who "don't
> test well"; but the job will do that also, and exact a much higher
> cost if they fail!
Not testing someone's writing skill because they "don't test well" sounds
about as logical as not interviewing someone 'cause they "don't interview
well". Yes, the interview process is gruelling. Yes, the person interviewed
is under alot of pressure. But this is just a fact of the hiring/job
searching process and if the potential employee can't handle the pressure of
an interview, they'll never be able to handle the pressure of a killer
deadline.
I think the on-site writing test is completely reasonable and should be
expected. I've had to write little tests that have me wrapping blocks of
wood and teaching people from the 16th century on how to dial a phone
number. Not only do they show the potential employer how I perform under
pressure, the writing test shows them how I break a problem down into it's
components and my writing style.
I never had to explain how to make a peanut butter sandwich, but just the
thought of it makes me hungry.
--
Be seeing you,
Dave
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John David Hickey
Grand Poohbah of Documentation
and proud recipient of two Wing awards
They say the pen is mightier than the sword.
But if you miss a deadline, you'd better bring the sword.
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Don't confuse my opinions with my employer's.
Each exists in blissful ignorance of the other.
