Cracking The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT)

Published on: 13 September 2018 Last Updated on: 16 December 2021
Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test

The process of getting the desired job and hiring skilled people have now become races, where both teams have to surpass a series of hurdles to get the coveted prize. Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) focuses on one’s ability to learn new skills and solve problems.

While it might not be as surprising for you, but the diminishing number of employed people and increasing skill sets has created a talent deficit. As per reports from Manpower Group, over 45% of global employees have talent issues, with most of them lacking interpersonal skills.

But does a shortage of skills means someone not much talent for a respective niche? Or, is that recruiters who aren’t hiring from the right places to have good talent on-board?

Well, in a professional term, talent shortages mean an inability to hire and find the right talent which is required to run any business.

The SOLUTION- hiring candidates not only on the basis of respective degrees but also on the basis of cognitive tests!

Criteria Cognitive aptitude test is a pre-employment test that focuses on measuring one’s ability to solve problems, learn new skills, digest and apply information, and critical thinking capabilities. Regardless of the candidate’s experience, these tests are used to hire potential candidates for the company’s success.

Further, these tests provide a vehicle to access the potential of employees, enabling a rapid workforce scale thereby reducing hiring cost and increasing the quality of each hire.

Why Recruiters Use Cognitive Ability Tests?

Cognitive Ability Tests

Cognitive aptitude measures a candidate’s ability to solve problems and the ability to use new information, recruiters consider it as one of the best predictors of a candidate’s job performance. Also, it’s more predictive than verbal interviews, job experience, and one’s educational background. You can either prepare it from hard-notes or can prepare online for the criteria cognitive aptitude test (CCAT).

Fast Facts Related To The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT):

  • The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) comprises of 50 questions
  • Candidates will be given only 15 minutes to answer each question
  • The questions will be divided into three different sections, viz. verbal, math and logic, and spatial reasoning
  • Use of calculators is restricted
  • Less than 1% of candidates can answer all 50 questions
  • Your score will be sent to employers with the total number of questions one has completed and the percentile score.

CCAT Practice Test:

You should solve sample questions for the CCAT practice test. As calculators are not allowed in the CCAT test, so make sure that you are not using calculator while practicing for the ccat test.

For tough math problems, use a pencil and paper. While solving the maths questions, take a watch and note the exact time you are taking while solving it.  You have to be aware of the length of time you are taking while solving questions for the CCAT practice test.

How to Pass a Cognitive Test:

Do Not Jump Instructions:

One of the most common mistakes candidates do is rushing over the instructions. Instead, take time to read and understand each instruction, and based on that, plan your strategy.  Since there’s no negative marking on each wrong answer, don’t skip any question- Guess and move!

Do What is Important:

Many people favor either 123s or ABCs, as not everyone is master in both. So, find your strengths and work accordingly. Try first to solve questions of the section that you find comfortable with. For instance, if your vocabulary is rusty and paragraph questions throw you for a loop, skip it or guess it.

Time Is Everything!

Candidates will be given only 15 minutes to solve 50 questions, which accounts for less than 18 seconds on each question.  That’s Too FAST!

Folk! You don’t have to checklist every single question; this will not impress hiring managers. So, focus on the correct score. If you think you have spent more than 45 seconds, guess the answer and move to the next.

Focus for the CCAT Test:

Aim at attempting all questions, but if you are unable to do so, don’t stress. The test is designed in a way so that only 1 or 2 % of the candidates can answer all questions in that specific time slot.

Let The Clock Stop!

If you have completed your test, don’t stop working. Let the time finish and then relax. Utilize your time as much as possible; go to your guessed questions (the one that you are unsure of) and double-check your answers. Take that extra time to solve them correctly.

Although Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) would be one of the methods that recruiters will use, it’s the most important one. And to crack it, the best thing you can do is simply PREPARE!

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Is Hotels/Resorts A Good Career Path In 2021

Is Hotels/Resorts A Good Career Path in 2021? If you are skilled in the hospitality industry, then there are several career opportunities for you in the long run. Those who are looking for more rewarding and interesting can go for Tourism and Hospitality.  So, the hospitality industry is a dynamic industry that offers several reasons to embark on a hotel career. Not only do people from all over the world stay at hotels, but people from all over the world work at hotels. Hotels/Resorts is a good career path because it creates an atmosphere that invites exposure to all types of backgrounds and people. Moreover, you find several fields in this career, and you can choose any according to your interest. One of the most rewarding career paths can be investing in real estate investment trusts because of the high number of jobs available in this field.  Is Hotels/Resorts A Good Career Path In 2021? The answer to this question is an absolute Yes. However, there are many people who believe that hospitality jobs are great. At the same time, many people don’t consider this as a good career path.   Today, it can be challenging to figure out which path can take your career to the next level of success. For example, a career path in finance consumer services, precious metals, public utilities, accessory stores, electrical utilities central path, and much more.  In hospitality management, you need to do the work that your hotel offers. As a hospitality manager, you probably work odd hours and deal with situations that arise at any time.  This is one of the most interesting jobs that you will find today because you will interact with different individuals from all age groups. This way, you can gain experience and knowledge in this field. Advantages of Working in the Hospitality Industry (Hotels/Resorts) If you have an interest in the hospitality industry, you will not feel bored and take your career to the level you always wished to. In this field, you may have to deal with other consumer services and make your customers satisfied with your services.  Now, let’s take a look at the top services that hotels/resorts offer in the long run. i). Opportunities To Grow Quickly In the hospitality industry, there is a wide range of opportunities to grow quickly. You can take a look at the careers in packaged foods as it is one of the top growing industries in the world.  You can advance your career in this field both individually and professionally. With your hard work and dedication, you can move from a junior executive post to a senior manager in just a few years.  ii). You Will Find Lots Of Diverse Options Yes, it is true that you will find lots of diverse options in hospitality management. There are many people in the hospitality industry, such as transport careers, management, categories, business services, etc.  In the United States, you will find that every job position related to hotels and resorts is in great demand. It is because people travel from one place to another for business purposes, and hotel management needs more staff to work for their customers and deliver high-quality customer service.  iii). Excellent Perks This is not limited to just the financial part. If you meet with hospitality industry employees, you will come to know that it offers exclusive luxury such as exposure, free hotel rooms, world-class amenities, and much more.  On the other hand, high-quality services from hospitality management are expected, and employees working for the same are highly rewarded. iv). High Stability & Growth Another reason to choose your career in hotels/resorts is that it offers high stability and growth for the employees in the long run.  Despite the tough situation in this pandemic, the hospitality sector has remained relatively stable. This is the benefit of choosing your career in this domain. v). Flexible Working Hours & Travel Opportunities If you are looking for a career path where you want flexible working hours, then I think hospitality industries can be your suitable option.  This industry is extremely flexible and also hires a lot of people at the same time. Therefore, this is also one of the most demand sectors in terms of jobs and careers. The Final Thoughts I have tried my best to answer your question, “Is Hotels/Resorts A Good Career Path In 2021?” However, if you feel that this job is suitable for you, you must opt for the same for your future. Besides, if you come across any issues, you can mention them below in the comment section. Read Also: Is Energy A Good Career Path Is Business Services A Good Career Path Is Basic Industries A Good Career Path Is Other Consumer Services A Good Career Path Is Hotels/Resorts A Good Career Path Is Packaged Foods A Good Career Path

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The Art of Answering Hard Interview Questions

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Professional Etiquette Tips for Interviews Now that you know about the hard interview questions and the answers that are close to the appropriate ones, here are a few more items to remember! 1. Being Punctual is Non-Negotiable Being punctual should be a non-negotiable when it comes to attending interviews. Arrive on Time. It may sound simple, but arriving on time for an interview is critical. In fact, 10-15 minutes early is probably the best arrival time. However, not more than that, you wouldn't want to seem too eager or nervous. 2. Your Posture Speaks a Lot Your non-verbal signals reveal a lot about yourself. Sit with your back straight, make eye contact, and smile with a firm handshake. Don’t hold your arms or fidget, as the interviewer might take it wrongly as a sign of apprehension or disinterest. Instead, slightly lean forward and nod to show that you are engaged. 3. Listen – Do not Just Jump to Answering The art of active listening is a must when giving an interview! Allow the interviewer to complete his/her thoughts and then answer the question. It helps you to frame your response in a better way and reflects your genuineness in the conversation. 4. Politeness is Given Being polite also has a long way to go. Start and finish the interview by thanking your interviewer for their time. And send a follow-up thank-you email later too; to remind them how interested you are in this job. 5. Dress code If you’re unsure what to wear, it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed. Even if you’re not sure of the company culture, dressing a little more formally will give the impression that you take this opportunity seriously. Plus, who doesn’t look great dressed up? Look at some of the best interview attire for men. Why a Good Cover Letter Matters as the Final Touch? A strong cover letter for a resume can be the difference between standing out or blending in with the pile of applications. It’s your chance to showcase why you’re a perfect fit for the role beyond what’s listed in your resume.  A great cover letter adds a personal touch, offering data for your qualifications and highlighting specific achievements that match the company’s needs. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your communication skills. Make it concise, focused, and tailored for each job. This effort shows you’re genuinely invested in the role. Confidence is Everything! Mastering hard interview questions and maintaining professional etiquette is essential for landing your dream job. With the right preparation, you can confidently handle even the toughest questions.  Always remember to follow up after your interview, and don't overlook the importance of your cover letter as the final touch. These small details will make a big difference in setting you apart from other candidates and getting you closer to that job offer. 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unique interview questions to ask employer

55+ Unique Interview Questions to Ask Your Future Employer

Unique interview questions to ask employer? But are you supposed to ask questions as a candidate? Who said an interview is a one-way process? As a potential candidate, are you only there to answer their question and prove your worth? Please remember you are also assessing the workplace to understand whether the workplace is fit for you. It would help if you asked questions to ensure you are joining the right place. Now, we all know basic questions like job roles and salary negotiation. However, asking the right questions can improve your interview experience. The to-and-fro communication can create a memorable experience for your employer, compelling them to give you a callback. Therefore, swallow your anxiety and start making the most of your interview. Especially if this is your ultimate dream job and you are well prepared to get it. However, you shouldn’t have to think and prepare these questions when you can get a compiled list from your predecessor all over the internet. So, without further ado, let’s get into the unique interview questions to ask the employer. Unique Interview Questions to Ask Employer – 10 Questions About the Work Here are the ten unique questions you can ask about the work. Because asking questions should also be a part of your interview prep. 1. Do you offer opportunities for cross-departmental collaboration, and how can I get involved in such projects? 2. How does the company measure success in this role, both in the short term and long term? Plus, are they just quantitative, or their qualitative measures as well? 3. Can you please share an example of a recent project where the team exceeded expectations? What made it successful? 4. How does the company prioritize work-life balance, and are any specific practices or policies in place to support it? 5. What are the most significant challenges the team is facing? Additionally, how can we overcome it with my skills? 6. How does the organization encourage continuous learning and development within the team? 7. What role does innovation play in our department, and how do you typically receive new ideas from employees? 8. Can you give me an insight into the company’s long-term vision and how my role fits into achieving those goals? 9. What key skills have led to success for individuals in this role or in this company? 10. How does the company approach feedback and performance reviews? Additionally, what can I expect in terms of ongoing communication and support? Unique Interview Questions to Ask Employer – 10 Questions About Your Team If you are going for a role that requires you to hold a leadership position, or you are a fresher joining a new team, understanding your team is important. Therefore, queries about your team should be one of the crucial questions to ask in an interview. 1. What is the current team strength, and how can I help leverage the strength for optimal growth? 2. How about conflict? Is the team more prone to conflict? If yes, how can I help deal with any form of disagreement? 3. What is the current team dynamic? What kind of personalities am I going to encounter? 4. Can you tell me your team's immediate priorities? 5. Is the team currently dealing with any problem delaying its productivity? Can I help the team in any way? 6. What about success? How do we acknowledge & celebrate the big and small successes as a team? 7. Does the team conduct meetings to understand the different challenges each member faces or what the team is facing in general often? 8. How does the team show their support to each other in terms of professional and personal problems? 9. Do we have access to professional tools? Is the senior management willing to take suggestions regarding paid tools that can ease the team’s work? 10. Finally, what unique role does each member play in the team besides their everyday job role? Unique Interview Questions to Ask Employer – 10 Questions About Your Own Future & the Company’s We all join an office with a certain personal plan. Therefore, questions confirming that your plan aligns with a company’s are important. Think about asking at least one or two of the following questions. 1. I have a two-year plan. If I plan to stay in this company for the next two to three years, what opportunities can help align my personal plan? 2. What is the minimum time for a promotion? Plus, is there any exceptional case for this? 3. Are there any upcoming projects in which I can take an active part and improve through real-time experience? 4. How do you see me grow in your company? What are you expecting from me in terms of career growth? 5. In my potential job role what are some of the analytical or conceptual skills you expect me to improve? 6. How often will the senior management or my team manager give me feedback on my work? 7. Is there any soft skill I need to build to do better in my current team? 8. How does the company encourage employees towards creative challenges & innovations? 9. Is there any current roadmap for the company’s growth? 10. How frequently do you reassess roles & responsibilities within a team or even cross-team? Unique Interview Questions to Ask Employer – 10 Questions to Ask About the Office Environment No matter how good the role, team, or salary is, getting your job done every day could be detrimental if you are not getting a positive environment. Therefore, try to sneak in some of these questions regarding the office environment. 1. What is the company doing to improve cross-team & employee bonding? 2. Is there any strict policy against office politics & discrimination that can create an unhealthy working environment? 3. Has the company implemented a POSH (Policy of Sexual Harassment)? 4. What are some of the unspoken rules & disciplinary measures on the office floor that I should be aware of? 5. Can you please tell me some of the new changes made in the office policy to improve the overall environment? 6. What about hybrid work? Will I be asked to come to the office for a few days without prior notice? 7. When working from home am I permitted to leave town, or do I need to place an official notice? 8. What is the policy regarding informal networking post office hours with my team for relationship-building? 9. How about office desk personalization? Is there any formal or informal policy regarding it? 10. What is the balance between formal & informal communication in the team? 10 Challenging Questions – Questions about Challenges These unique interview questions cannot end without asking some of the questions regarding the corporate challenges of the company. After all, no job is all bed of roses and sunshine. Yes, there will be challenges, the trick is always to be aware of the common problems. These questions are also important to ask if you want to detect some interview red flags early on. What are the most significant challenges this team currently faces, and how are they being addressed? Can you share an example of a recent challenge the company overcame and the lessons learned from it? What are the biggest challenges you foresee for someone stepping into this role? How does the company approach problem-solving when faced with unexpected challenges? What are some common challenges new employees face during their first six months here? How does the company support employees in overcoming challenges related to work-life balance? What are the main obstacles the company anticipates in achieving its long-term goals? How does the leadership team communicate and manage challenges affecting the company? What strategies are in place to handle rapid growth or expansion challenges? Can you describe a time when the company faced a major challenge that tested its core values? How was it handled? What’s Next – 5 Next Steps About the Interview Process Finally, let’s get into the top questions to help you understand what comes next in the interview process. 1. What is the next step of this interview process? 2. When can I expect to hear from you again? 3. Will you let me know the results even if I am not accepted for the role? Plus, how long will that take? 4. What is a good time before I could follow up? 5. Can I share any further documents with you? Finally, do more than lead the interview with your own queries. Yes, also show gratitude towards the interviewers and thank them for their time. You can also send them a thank you mail 24 hours after the interview. Remember this mail is not a follow-up to the interview. Yes, you can subtly ask about the results, but the subject matter of the mail would be a simple thank you. The Final Note! Remember, an interview is as much about you evaluating the company as it is about them assessing you. By asking thoughtful and unique questions, you demonstrate your genuine interest and gather crucial information to make an informed decision. Whether it’s about the role, team dynamics, or company culture, your inquiries can uncover the deeper realities of the workplace. Use this opportunity to ensure the company aligns with your career goals and values. And don't forget to express your gratitude for the interview opportunity—your positive demeanor can leave a lasting impression. Good luck! Read Also: Red flags of a job interview: 8 reasons to turn down an offer 6 Things You Must Do to Prepare for a Video Interview

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