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

[doodab]

I don't, but the fact someone will be willing to sit an 2 hour programming test, instead of talking to someone for 15 mins, is a clear sign.

I don't mind talking to someone for 15 minutes if the conversation is interesting. I specifically objected to being forced to waffle about nothing and fill space where none ought to exist, which often occurs in those interviews where the interviewer clearly has little idea what it is I do and whether or not I can actually do it but feels obliged to fill a full hour anyway. It's usually a good sign of an environment I'm not going to enjoy working in, and probably more of a reflection on the interviewers social skills (i.e. ability to draw a conversation to a natural conclusion) than mine.

[kandr]

I don't mind talking to someone for 15 minutes if the conversation is interesting. I specifically objected to being forced to waffle about nothing and fill space where none ought to exist, which often occurs in those interviews where the interviewer clearly has little idea what it is I do and whether or not I can actually do it but feels obliged to fill a full hour anyway. It's usually a good sign of an environment I'm not going to enjoy working in, and probably more of a reflection on the interviewers social skills (i.e. ability to draw a conversation to a natural conclusion) than mine.

Ok Rainman.

[BlasterBates]

what do you actually talk to people ?

...for goodness sake.

I sit in a corner memorising Java statements.

[d000hg]

Asbergers? Not for a programmer maybe, but a contractor who has to converse with other humans, it is.

Depends what you do. If you're a hard core tech guy, you don't have to spend much time talking.
Actually, I lead a team without speaking to them...

[SueEllen]

Depends what you do. If you're a hard core tech guy, you don't have to spend much time talking.
Actually, I lead a team without speaking to them...

Even the hard core tech people I know (OK they are the top specialists in their particular field) like talking to people.

Then again they have to do conferences and presentations.......

[nomadd]

I sit in a corner memorising Java statements.

Which is strange for a C# guy...

[SupremeSpod]

what do you actually talk to people ?

...for goodness sake.

I sit in a corner memorising Java statements input into my brain, in binary via two electrodes one taped to each arse cheek.

FTFY.

[MarillionFan]

I had to do a presentation of
my work and business approach for my present client.

The agent sent through a list of requirements which was laughable. They mixed terminology and stated something so wrong about the tool they are using I told the agent.

During the presentation, I did a slide on what they asked for and how it actually works. I the. Challenged them on their requirement and recommendation, showing them why it wouldn't work and so their interview requirement was wrong.

They thanked me for the
clarification and I started today.

[jmo21]

I had to do a presentation of
my work and business approach for my present client.

The agent sent through a list of requirements which was laughable. They mixed terminology and stated something so wrong about the tool they are using I told the agent.

During the presentation, I did a slide on what they asked for and how it actually works. I the. Challenged them on their requirement and recommendation, showing them why it wouldn't work and so their interview requirement was wrong.

They thanked me for the
clarification and I started today.

All part of the test I guess, but well done!