Examinations are an important tool in the evaluation of your qualifications for an open position. They allow you an opportunity to demonstrate that you possess the knowledge, skills and abilities that are required to perform the job.

All positions include an initial examination - evaluation of your application - while others may comprise multiple examinations. If there is more than one examination, generally you must pass the first examination to qualify for the next examination.

For any job, you should find out all you can about the position by reviewing the job flyer. This will help you to understand what knowledge, skills and abilities might be required to successfully compete for any openings. The minimum requirements are listed in the "Requirements" section of the flyer - be sure to read the requirements carefully. A position may require a specific type and amount of experience, a license or certification, or simply skill, knowledge and ability in specific fields. It is very important that your relevant education, experience (volunteer or paid), licenses, certificates and special skills be included on your application. Emphasize those areas which meet the specific requirements of the job.

Job flyers for open recruitments are available at the Human Resources Department counter and on our web site at www.monterey.org. Be sure to include all required submittals with the application, such as a resume and/or supplemental questionnaire - failure to do so could result in the rejection of your application.

A position may require one or several examinations. The following types of exams encompass some examples, but is not an exclusive list of all exams.

Application Screening: Applications are competitively screened based on the minimum requirements of the job as listed in the job flyer. Do not write an incomplete response, such as "See Resume" as a response to any application question.

Supplemental Questionnaire: A Supplemental Questionnaire is often required as part of the submittal with a City of Monterey application for some positions. This is also a primary tool in the evaluation of your qualifications for the position. The supplemental information you provide will be evaluated along with your completed application form, and together constitutes an examination for the position. When responding to the supplemental questions, you should provide thorough responses to each question and provide examples where possible or appropriate. Be sure your name is on each page you submit.

Written Examination: This type of examination tests both basic and technical knowledge required for the position and other job-related characteristics, such as reading comprehension, spelling, punctuation, grammar, and mathematical abilities. Written examinations may be up to three hours long. The examination may be an essay format, multiple choice, true or false, and/or fill-in-the-blank.

Performance Examination: This type of examination is given to allow applicants to demonstrate a skill or ability that is required to perform the job. Performance examinations measure such things as physical agility or the ability to use tools and equipment.

Oral Board Examination: This is a panel interview and may encompass a set of structured questions that are asked of each candidate. Some panel interviews are unstructured and candidates are asked questions about several job related topics that help the raters understand the candidates experience, knowledge, philosophies and goals as they relate to the topics.

Assessment Center: An Assessment Center is generally an all-day testing process with various structured activities that allow the candidate to demonstrate those skills and abilities that are needed to be successful in the position. The exercises are very typical of tasks and responsibilities that may be performed as part of the job duties of a position. Some common exercises in an Assessment Center may include: Group Discussions, Role Play, Written Presentations, and Oral Presentations. The exercises will be evaluated by a group of observers who will rate each exercise individually.

In most cases, you should receive initial contact by mail from the Human Resources Department within two to three weeks following the application deadline of the recruitment. The notice will inform you when and where any examination will take place, if your application is accepted. Read any examination notices carefully, as they will contain important information about the specifics of the examination, including the time and location.

If you are selected for an oral board interview, there are some things you should do: remain calm, be prompt and dress appropriately. You may also want to review the job bulletin to prepare yourself for the interview. Remember, this is the time to show the hiring department that you are the best person for the job!

Interviews generally fall into either structured or unstructured types. In structured interviews, the same questions are asked of each candidate being interviewed - your answers should be complete and to the point. In unstructured interviews, the questions are more open-ended and may generate follow-up questions, depending on your answers. Some interviews combine both styles.

1. Although you may not know exactly what questions an interview might entail, thinking about the basic information will help you prepare for the interview. Preparation is one key to a successful interview.
2. Prior to the interview, think about why you applied for this position.
3. Be prepared to talk about your education and experience and relate how that has prepared you for success in this particular position.
4. Honestly assess your strengths and weaknesses. If you are asked, present those assets in terms that are job related.
5. Be prepared to talk about your accomplishments in your current or previous position if asked.

Be honest about any lack of experience, and focus on your attributes, willingness and ability to learn.

1. If for any reason you are unable to keep your appointment, call the Human Resources Department at 646-3765 to let them know prior to the interview.

2. Be punctual - arrive on time for your interview.

3. During the interview, maintain good eye contact with the raters.

4. Listen carefully to the questions - if a question is unclear, ask for clarification. Think before you answer.

5. Speak clearly and loud enough to be easily heard.

6. Make sure your answers to questions are clear and concise - do not ramble. Keep in mind that raters are trying to learn as much as possible about you and your experience.

7. Be confident, professional and truthful.

8. Be yourself - you are the best person to emphasize your background and experience for this position!

9. Be aware that both the examination and interview process tests those skills and abilities that are important for success on the job.

10. Finally, learn from the interview process by analyzing your performance. If you would like feedback, contact the Human Resources Office.