How to Test Technical Skills When Hiring in Malaysia (2025 Guide)

You’ve received a lot of resumes, each claiming to be the “perfect tech expert.” But how do you find the truly skilled candidates?

Resumes often exaggerate skills, and interviews alone can’t reveal true technical expertise.

This is where technical skills tests come in.

These tests act as a digital lie detector, helping employers and recruiters identify candidates who can actually deliver on their promises.

For Malaysian companies, especially in tech, engineering, and IT, technical skills tests are no longer optional—they’re essential.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about technical skills tests, including:

What they are and why they matter.
How to use them effectively in your hiring process.
Tools and tips to get started in 2025.

What are Technical Skills Tests?

Technical skills tests are practical exams that assess a candidate's ability to handle job-specific tasks.

Unlike resumes or interviews, these tests provide concrete evidence of a candidate's skills through real-world challenges.

Whether you're hiring for a software developer or an IT support role, technical tests show what candidates can actually do, not just what they say.

Examples of Technical Skills Tests in Malaysia:

Coding tests for software roles (e.g., Python, Java, PHP).
Network troubleshooting for IT support positions.
Data analysis tasks for data analysts or fintech companies.
Design tasks for creative roles (e.g., Adobe Photoshop or Canva for graphic designers).

Why Use Technical Skills Tests?

1. Skill Verification

Resumes and interviews can be misleading. Technical tests provide proof of ability.

Example: A candidate claims to be an “Excel expert.” A 30-minute test on pivot tables and VLOOKUP can confirm their skill level.

2. Save Time and Money

Hiring the wrong person is costly.

Technical tests help you filter out unqualified candidates early, allowing you to focus interviews only on candidates who are qualified.

This prevents time spent on underqualified candidates, streamlining your hiring process and reducing unnecessary recruitment costs.

3. Fair and Consistent Hiring

Since technical tests give every candidate the same questions, they help ensure that hiring decisions are based on skill rather than subjective impressions.

Example: Two candidates for a data analyst role both solve the same data interpretation task, making it easier to compare their skills.

4. Better Job Fit

Technical tests ensure candidates can handle the actual tasks they’ll face on the job.

Example: A graphic designer’s test might involve creating a social media ad using Adobe Photoshop.

4 Key Areas Technical Tests Cover

1. Coding & Programming

For software development roles, coding tests are a must. For example, ask candidates to debug a website using a programming language like PHP (popular in Malaysian SMEs).

2. Problem-Solving

Testing problem-solving skills is essential. You might simulate scenarios like server crashes or software bugs and evaluate how candidates approach and resolve these issues.

3. Technical Knowledge

Tests for technical knowledge assess familiarity with industry tools. Examples include quizzes on AutoCAD for engineers or SQL for database roles.

4. Hands-On Tasks

For technical support positions, practical tasks like troubleshooting simulated network issues provide a deeper insight into the candidate's practical skills.

For instance, ask an IT support candidate to fix a simulated network error or set up an email configuration.

Top Jobs in Malaysia That Require Technical Tests

Certain roles in Malaysia greatly benefit from technical assessments. Here are some roles where technical skills tests are especially useful:

1. Software Developers

Tests: Coding challenges, debugging tasks.

Example: Building a simple app or fixing bugs in existing code.

2. Engineers

Tests: Mechanical reasoning, CAD software proficiency.

Example: Designing a machine part using AutoCAD.

3. Data Analysts

Tests: Data interpretation, Excel, SQL queries.

Example: Analyzing a dataset to identify trends.

4. IT Support

Tests: Troubleshooting, network configuration.

Example: Fixing a simulated network error.

5. Graphic Designers

Tests: Design tasks using tools like Photoshop or Canva.

Example: Creating a social media post or brochure.

6. Cybersecurity Specialists

Tests: Identifying vulnerabilities, configuring firewalls.

Example: Simulating a cyberattack and defending against it.

Types of Technical Assessment Tests

1. Coding Tests

Evaluate programming skills through real-work coding challenges.

Example: A Malaysian startup might test developers on building a chatbot.

2. Online Assessments

Automated tests that candidates can complete remotely.

Example: A multiple-choice quiz on networking basics.

3. Take-Home Assignments

Candidates complete a task (e.g., coding, design) at home and submit it.

Example: Designing a website layout or writing a short program.

4. Live Technical Interviews

Candidates solve problems or answer technical questions in real-time.

Example: Debugging code during a video call.

5. Simulation Tests

Candidates work in a virtual environment that mimics real job tasks.

Example: Configuring a virtual server or diagnosing a software issue.

Best Technical Skills Assessment Tools for 2025

Here are some tools Malaysian companies can use to streamline technical testing:

CodeSignal

Best For: Coding tests for developers.

Why Use It: Offers role-specific tests and real-world coding challenges.

TestGorilla

Best For: Pre-built tests for IT, engineering, and more.

Why Use It: Easy to use and covers a wide range of skills.

Xobin

Best For: Skills testing in Malaysia.

Why Use It: Popular among Malaysian companies for its affordability and versatility.

Mercer Mettl

Best For: IT and engineering roles.

Why Use It: Focuses on technical skill assessments with a global reputation.

HackerRank

Best For: Coding practice and hiring developers.

Why Use It: Great for testing problem-solving and coding skills.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Generic Tests

Don’t use generic tests that don't match the role you're hiring for.

For example, testing a web developer on Python when the job requires proficiency in JavaScript is not useful.

Instead, tailor the tests to match your company's tools and technologies, like using React.js for front-end roles.

2. Ignoring Time Limits

It’s crucial to provide realistic time limits for tests. For example, set a deadline of one hour for coding tasks.

This ensures that candidates work within the constraints they'll face in a real job setting.

3. Forgetting Malaysian Context

Remember the importance of local relevance in your assessments.

For example, testing candidates for fintech roles on popular Malaysian e-payment systems like Touch ’n Go or Boost can help ensure that candidates are equipped for the local market.

How to Prepare Candidates for Technical Skills Tests

Let your candidates know what to expect by sharing sample questions.

For instance, you could ask them to build a simple inventory system using Excel as part of their preparation.

Here are other ways to ensure candidates are well-prepared:

Recommend free practice platforms like HackerRank or LinkedIn Learning.
Clearly explain the format of the test (e.g., a 30-minute online quiz or a hands-on task).
Offer insights into the types of tools or software that will be tested (e.g., AutoCAD for engineers or Power BI for data analysts).

Final Tips for Employers

1. Start Small

If you’re new to using technical tests, start by adding one or two questions to your next interview.

This will help you gradually understand how these tests fit into your hiring process.

2. Combine with Soft Skills

Technical skills are essential, but don’t forget to assess soft skills as well.

For example, you could ask candidates to explain a technical issue to a non-tech client to assess communication and interpersonal skills.

3. Update Regularly

Technology evolves quickly, so make sure your technical tests align with current trends in Malaysia’s tech landscape.

For example, testing for AI skills or cloud computing knowledge can help you stay ahead of the curve.

Are you planning to find new candidates?

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