BSkyB, agent wants me to do a "problem solving" test BEFORE any interview

[Zippy]

Narrow it down to the person who figured out how to use 2 computers to cheat, one for googling the answers, the other for executing the test. I suppose the person who does this shows intelligence.

Actually, you only need one computer.

[d000hg]

You said Joel's test, I guess its that moron Spolsky you are taking about? Hes a God to Bobs in their basement and crappy devs like yourself.

Hey nonce, go educate yourself. The JT isn't a programming test, but a way to evaluate a software team as one you want to be part of. Of course, you didn't let your ignorance stop you posting your opinion. Well done for showing yourself up.

Considering Joel's Modus Operandi is "hire the best people around, buy the best kit you can, and pay them what they want", that doesn't sound like it has much to do with BOBs and crappy devs. Which of those 12 points do you think is wrong? I didn't claim it was holy writ, but many view it as a good quick way to get a first impression.

Actually, you're probably too lazy to follow a simple hyperlink...

1. Do you use source control?
2. Can you make a build in one step?
3. Do you make daily builds?
4. Do you have a bug database?
5. Do you fix bugs before writing new code?
6. Do you have an up-to-date schedule?
7. Do you have a spec?
8. Do programmers have quiet working conditions?
9. Do you use the best tools money can buy?
10. Do you have testers?
11. Do new candidates write code during their interview?
12. Do you do hallway usability testing?

Does that sound like a checklist for Bobs... doesn't to me.

[Aman]

Hey there,

I know some of you people had contracts with BSkyB, as Developers.
Now there is an agent telling me to do a test for him (" it would only take 2-3 hours") and says that this is the company that requires that.

I suspect it's a lie.

Does any of you have experience of that sort of selection arrangement?

Yes, I've sat tests at interview for a student placement, a switch vendor and a couple of network operators. The placement test was on electronics, electrical, comms and television, the others were on comms and protocols. I got the gigs.

I even had to take a test on registration with an FM agency, when I was looking for a fill-in role. Though it was a bit of a pest for me using up half a day to get there, take the test and interview with the agent, I thought it was a particularly good idea in the FM sector because there are so many blaggers and widos in M&E. It was a well put together multiple choice which would separate the chancers from those that know what they are doing.
I would certainly use a technical test for electricians and plumbers for any remotely technical work.

On the whole I think technical tests are a good idea as part of an effective R&S campaign.
A 2-3 hour test is a tad on the excessive side. If a hiring manager has to use such a lengthy test for selection then it would suggest problems in their recuitment process.

Before going to any interview I would expect a well drawn up job spec, particularly if significant travel or expense was involved.

[nomadd]

Try that one on your plumber. Let us know how he takes it.

Jesus! Grow a spine, people. Don't take this tulip.

+1

Just watch this thread go on an on, though, just like the other threads on the same subject. Seems some contractors have no spine and are happy to accept this tulip. Go figure.

Worked for BSkyB a few years back, for about a year. Quite enjoyed it. Did not take any tests; in fact, the interview was about 10 minutes long, with the guy just insisting that I turned up within two weeks. I did, it was fine.

[kandr]

+1

Just watch this thread go on an on, though, just like the other threads on the same subject. Seems some contractors have no spine and are happy to accept this tulip. Go figure.

Worked for BSkyB a few years back, for about a year. Quite enjoyed it. Did not take any tests; in fact, the interview was about 10 minutes long, with the guy just insisting that I turned up within two weeks. I did, it was fine.

+1

Leave the tests to the betwetters

[d000hg]

+1

Leave the tests to the betwetters

Skilled professionals aren't scared of being asked to prove themselves.

The companies who hire contractors unchecked are the same ones who hire the crap permies the contractors complain about. There's a reason those companies end up with crap permies... crap hiring processes.

[Scrag Meister]

Brainbench is quite popular with some banks, done them a couple of times and got interviews.

If you don't the basics they won't bother interviewing you.

[swann123]

BSkyb test

Hi Lola

I have directly applied for BSkyB. They have accepted my application and send me a programming test which will take a few hours to code! I have though completed it and sent it across.

Hope this helps.

Tc
Swann

Hey there,

I know some of you people had contracts with BSkyB, as Developers.
Now there is an agent telling me to do a test for him (" it would only take 2-3 hours") and says that this is the company that requires that.

I suspect it's a lie.

Does any of you have experience of that sort of selection arrangement?

[mobi]

Employers can always ask candidates to sit for any test. If you don't like that just go elsewhere. Simples.

May be I'm wrong but I think more difficult the hiring process is, less likely you'll be fired soon.

[Ashwin2007]

I feel programming is like an art. You engage an artist based on previous work, reputation, and qualifications. You don't ask him to draw a piece free of cost before engaging him. Would you do this to a photographer (asking him / her to come to your home to take few photos) before engaging him/her?

Imagine a developer who has degree in computer science, 10+ years experience, industry certifications, etc., being asked to write a test!

I think, by insisting on a test, the employer is ruling out highly matured and experienced candidates for the job. What they may get is someone who can be controlled by the employer anyway they want. This may also mean that the interviewer is not confident in his/her interviewing skills to select the right candidate, and relying on a test for the candidate to prove the skills.