Wal-Mart Employment Application Process

**WilyWestbrook0** · 03-30-2009, 05:26 PM

Has anyone else taken their online application for employment and "failed" the retail assessment portion? I am trying to figure out how I "failed," but it doesn't explain how a person can fail the test, or if failing the online retail assessment prevents you from obtaining a potential open position there.

**Enigma** · 03-30-2009, 06:00 PM

As a former HR manager/hiring manager, I can tell you it is very easy to "fail" an assessment test. The problem/flaw with these assessment tests is you can answer them completely honestly and feel like you have nothing to hide/against you once you complete it but still "fail". The reason is these tests are not black and white. Most employers use them to see how a person will answer and some places will automatically "fail" your test if it seems to them you tried to answer the way you think they would want you to answer. Problem is, there's absolutely no way to know that based on these tests.

Also, you will find that these tests have a few questions that are the same but worded differently. If you do not answer the same on each of those questions, then it counts against you as you are mixing up your answers. Don't take it personally as I've seen a lot of quality people get rejected based on the ludicrous nature of these tests.

And yes, in most cases, you will not be permitted to get a job with the company if you do not pass the test.

**WilyWestbrook0** · 03-30-2009, 06:07 PM

Thanks for the detailed response, Enigma. My mom worked in business for years, and she suspected many of those reasons as well. But while this is not quite as embarrassing as I initially suspected, I still feel like I am not doing something correct to still be submitting job applications after nearly a year out of school. Most people I talk to tell me getting a job is easy if you have a degree, and that even "morons" or illegals should be able to get retail/other entry level work without much effort. Either I am stupid or unlucky, because it's not like I have been standing around waiting for a job to fall in my lap..I apply for several almost every week. I am not sure what else to do or how much longer I have to wait for something to finally work.

**Enigma** · 03-30-2009, 06:09 PM

I wish I could help as retail jobs are somewhat easy, but not as easy as you think. I can give you some more insight in private if you wish, but I won't post it on the open boards.

**WilyWestbrook0** · 03-30-2009, 06:12 PM

That is fine. If you have the time, a PM would be great. It's becoming increasingly frustrating the longer this drags out for me, so I welcome all the help I can get.

**Enigma** · 03-30-2009, 06:16 PM

I'll shoot you some info later tonight as I'll have some free time then...

**dirtydistance** · 03-30-2009, 07:20 PM

You're probably too good to have to settle for a retail job. I was rejected by Lowe's(and I have a Bachelor's Degree) before getting in with the Postal Service where I feel I have it better and make a lot more cash. Just keep your head up and something will come along.

Also don't be afraid to take a chance on some random jobs while you're looking. I answered phones for a web domain sales company(worst job ever) and picked up people's junk in attics and basements. Also officiated and served as starter for track meets(but that was the coolest job ever, haha) Made me appreciate what I eventually got into.