**A Blast from the Past: Request for SAT Scores Stirs Confusion**
Amanda Jenkins, a 28-year-old marketing professional from Seattle, Washington, was recently caught off guard when a recruiter asked her to provide her SAT scores as part of a job application process. Having taken the standardized test over a decade ago, the request left Jenkins both perplexed and unsure about its relevancy in the modern job market.
Not a Common Practice
It is not common for companies and recruiters to request college entrance exam scores from prospective employees, as professional experience and applicable skills tend to be the main focus in the hiring process. Jenkins, who has a bachelor’s degree in marketing and several years of experience in her field, was surprised that a test she took in high school was being considered in her application for a mid-level marketing position.
“I understand that some employers might want to verify the information on a candidate’s resume, but asking for my SAT scores from 10 years ago seems a bit excessive,” Jenkins shared. “My skills and experiences in marketing are much more relevant to the position than how well I did on a test in high school.”
Industry Expert Weighs In
Human resources expert Karen Martinez, who has over 15 years of experience in recruitment and talent acquisition, agrees that the request for SAT scores is unusual. “It’s more common to see this request for entry-level positions, but for someone at Amanda’s level of experience, it’s quite rare,” she explains.
Martinez also points out that the SAT has undergone multiple changes over the years, making it difficult to compare scores from different years accurately. “SAT scores should not be given much weight in the hiring process, especially for positions that require professional experience,” she advises.
A Learning Opportunity
For Jenkins, the request has raised awareness about the potential for outdated hiring practices and their impact on job seekers. “I thought it was strange but complied because I didn’t want to jeopardize my chances at landing the job,” she says.
While Jenkins ultimately chose to provide her scores, she hopes that her experience will encourage recruiters and hiring managers to reconsider their methods and prioritize evaluating candidates based on relevant qualifications.
As the job market continues to evolve, it is essential for employers to reevaluate their hiring practices continually. While academic accolades may hold merit in certain circumstances, it is crucial to ensure that these requirements align with the specific industry and experience level of the positions being filled.
Tags: Job Application, SAT Scores
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