Eversheds introduces online tests to reduce dependency on academic grades when selecting training

Eversheds has introduced online verbal and numerical reasoning tests, from assessment specialist PSL, to help sift the 4,000 candidates who apply each year for a training contract.

ìNot everyone gets brilliant academic results. The problem we had was that if people ñ for whatever reason ñ hadnít done so well academically, it was hard for them to be able to demonstrate their capability at the other early stages of the recruitment process,î said Nathalie Brayne, Graduate Development Manager at Eversheds. ìWeíve introduced online verbal and numerical tests to give ourselves additional information on each candidate.î

The online tests have been integrated into Evershedsí online application process. All candidates are emailed the tests automatically after they submit their online application form.

ìPSL has a very efficient online test administration system and we were able to customise their tests with Evershedsí branding,î said Nathalie Brayne. ìThe tests are extremely helpful as they get candidates to analyse information and make decisions based upon their analysis.î

The successful candidates, who join the firm as trainee solicitors, take part in a two-year training contract in which they work in four different practice groups. They also undertake a professional skills course, covering issues such as finance and business skills, advocacy and client care and professional standards.

Eversheds believe the introduction of PSLís tests to the process will bring a number of business benefits to the firm. ìFrom recruitment through to being a Newly Qualified, each trainee costs us approximately 125,000 when you include all of their training and fees,î said Nathalie Brayne. ìSo you only have to make a couple of recruitment mistakes and it would cost us a lot of money. The introduction of PSLís tests allows us to hire the right people and therefore avoid costly mistakes.î

In addition to the cost savings, there are further efficiency savings: ìThe tests will help us cut down the volume of applications for us to score, this takes up a huge amount of time and a large proportion of the applications do fail at the first hurdle,î said Nathalie Brayne.

Eversheds is currently experiencing exceptional growth. ìOur aim is to continue to be a great place to work and the most client-centred international law firm,î said Nathalie Brayne. ìTo achieve that, we have to recruit talented and motivated people who will embrace our vision and values and really add something to our business. PSLís tests are helping to find these people from amongst the high number of applicants we receive.î

For more information about PSL, please call 020 8585 2345 or email info@psl.com