IBM Assessment Tests & Interviews. 2024 Full Practice Guide

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SUMMARY

Are you applying to IBM 2024 internships or graduate programs? Are you exploring a professional job opportunity at IBM? This comprehensive guide is for you.

The text below provides a full candidate recruitment, assessment preparation guide and practice for those applying to jobs, internships and graduate programs at IBM globally, including the UK and US.

Our website provides scientifically validated practice assessment tests, interviews and assessment centre exercises that can be used to practice and prepare for the recruitment and assessment process.

Should you practice assessments to prepare for the IBM recruitment process? According to research, 60-80% of candidates are rejected based on their aptitude test results. It is proven that practice increases your chances of getting hired.

IN A NUTSHELL

How do you prepare for IBM assessment tests and get the job?

1. Online Application

• Fill in your IBM application online.
• Match your application to IBM’s values and culture.
• Use their language/keywords from the job post in your resume.

2. Practice For the IBM Online Test

IBM uses a variety of aptitude assessment tests. IBM test may include;

• IBM Coding Assessments
• IBM English Language Assessments
• IBM Video Assessments

You may get rejected already after your aptitude tests. These tests sift out 50-80% of candidates. The only proven way to get to the next round is to practice.

3. Record mock video interviews of yourself

Prepare for your IBM video assessment by running mock interviews and answering typical interview questions for the role you are applying for. For IBM video assessment practice, use the following:

• a smartphone to record yourself
• Zoom or
• Our reliable video interview platform

Use the STAR+R method for your answers and practice each answer several times.

4. Prepare for IBM Assessment Centre Exercises

IBM makes use of a variety of competitive exercises during its assessment centre to find the right candidates. Ensure that you practice a variety of exercises including:

• Group Exercises
• Final Interview

Hone your communication skills as best as you can before the exercises. Research online, prepare and practice presentation of as many business case studies as possible. 

Continue reading to get answers to the following important questions:

1. What is IBM recruitment process?
2. What is an IBM assessment?
3. What assessments are in IBM online assessments?
4. How to prepare for and pass the IBM interview?
5. How do I pass the IBM assessment centre?

Looking to prepare for your upcoming IBM assessments? Simply click on the table below to practice similar tests relevant to your IBM application process!

The IBM recruitment process is structured with different stages. Let’s break down these stages in this all-inclusive guide:

 Contents

1. Who is IBM?
2. IBM Online Application
3. IBM Online Assessments
   • Coding Assessment
   • English Assessment
   • Video Assessment
4. IBM Assessment Center
   • Group Exercises
   • Final Interview

Good to Know Bonuses:

5. IBM Graduate Schemes and Internships
6. IBM Assessment FAQs

Without further ado, let’s dive in!

Who is IBM?

The International Business Machines Corporation, commonly abbreviated as IBM and nicknamed Big Blue, is a multinational technology corporation headquartered in Armonk, New York. IBM specialises in computer hardware, middleware, software, and consultancy services ranging from mainframe computers to nanotechnology.

IBM is one of the largest employers in the world. Operating in over 170 countries, IBM employs 288,300 people as of December 2022.

Being an industry leader in the information technology sector, IBM is active in different business areas and competition for its various job positions is very high. Discover the range of roles available in IBM in the next section.

What are the Business Areas and Jobs in IBM?

IBM is involved and active in almost every aspect of information technology. Below are some of the key business areas and roles at IBM:

Due to the high competition for these roles and positions at IBM, It is crucial to perform well at every stage of the recruitment process. 

What are these recruitment stages? Read on to find out!

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IBM Online Application

What is an IBM online application form?

The first step in the IBM hiring process is the online application. Once you have found a role that interests you within the organisation, you will be required to go ahead and complete an online application on IBM’s careers website.

IBM’s online application only takes a couple of minutes to fill and you will be required to provide the following information:

• Personal information, e.g. name, email address, phone number, etc.
• Education history
• Work experience
• Resume
• Diversity e.g. race, ethnicity, etc.
• Additional information, e.g. disability information, need for sponsorship, etc.

For some roles, IBM may include some short and simple questions. When answering these questions, ensure you have researched IBM’s values and culture and tailor your answers to them.

What are IBM’s Values and Culture?

IBM has 2 key values and three aspects to their organisational culture that dictate how its operations are carried out and how the company also relates with its customers. IBM’s core values are;

1. Diversity and Inclusion, providing equal opportunities to all individuals from every community. 
2. Innovation and Focus on Change, taking pride in being the most innovative workforce in the world, IBM focuses on offering the best to drive success.

In addition, IBM’s company culture is characterised by; openness, collaboration, and trust.

Throughout the recruitment process, IBM recruiters will assess these values and culture in candidates to determine if they are IBMer material.

Watch our short video below for tips on how to prepare for your IBM job application:

After submission, your application will be read by IBM recruiters who are experts in screening resumes and also specialists in respective business areas. 

If your application is successful, you may be asked to complete some IBM tests.

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IBM Online Assessments

What are IBM online assessment tests?

The IBM online assessments are the second stage of the IBM recruitment process. These IBM cognitive ability assessments measure skills and abilities that don’t emerge in interviews.

The assessment you will be required to take will vary depending on the role you applied for. Due to this, the exact time for completing the assessments varies from application to application.

There are three main assessments in the IBM online assessment test, however, no role requires you to take all three. The IBM screening tests are;

1. IBM Coding Assessment
2. IBM English Language Assessment
3. IBM Video Assessment

So what are each of the tests about and how can you ace them properly? Let’s find out!

1. IBM Coding Assessment

What is the IBM Coding Assessment?

IBM’s coding assessment is a test designed to evaluate candidates’ programming knowledge and coding ability. If the position you applied to requires some knowledge of programming and coding, you will likely take this assessment.

What will I face in the IBM coding assessment?

In the IBM coding assessment, you will be presented with either a series of multi-choice coding questions or an interface with a coding challenge to solve.

Consider some of our tips below as you prepare for your IBM coding assessment.

5 Top Tips to Pass the IBM Coding Assessment

1. Research the role and know the coding and programming requirements needed for the role. This helps you anticipate some of the IBM coding questions that could be in the test.

2. Remember your coding basics. Thoroughly learn data structures and algorithms. Brushing up on your coding knowledge helps remember little details that questions could touch.

3. Thoroughly understand and practice coding questions in your specialised programming language for the assessment because the test would majorly cover your area of expertise.

4. Practice consistently with numerous IBM coding questions. Review your solutions and learn from any mistakes made. Familiarise yourself with platforms such as HackerRank, LeetCode, and Pramp. 

5. Read and understand the instructions carefully before attempting each question to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that you know exactly what is expected of you.

2. IBM English Language Assessment

What is IBM English Language assessment?

The IBM English Assessment evaluates your English language proficiency. This assessment presents you with a series of multiple-choice English language questions. It may include reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary and sentence completion exercises.

5 Key Tips to Pass the IBM English Language Assessment 

1. Practice is key to improving your performance in the IBM English language test. Practice reading before the test to expand your reading comprehension ability.

2. Practice reading quickly using speed-reading techniques to increase reading speed without impacting your comprehension skills.

3. Carefully analyse each statement following the passage, considering its relationship with the provided text in the test.

4. Pay attention to grammar, vocabulary, and coherence in your answers. Proofread your written responses for spelling and grammatical errors.

5. Maintain a calm and focused mindset during the test. Focus on one question at a time and take an educated guess if you get stuck.

3. IBM Video Assessment

What is IBM video assessment?

The IBM video assessment is a video interview that requires you to answer some pre-set questions by recording video responses. This video assessment helps IBM recruiters to know you better and assess your skills with some competency-based and behavioural interview questions.

Watch our short video below to gain more insight into how an IBM video assessment works:

Now that we know what to expect in an IBM video assessment, let’s check out some example questions and answers.

EXAMPLE IBM INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Some questions you might come across in IBM video assessment are:

1. How do you handle conflict?
2. Why do you want to work for IBM?
3. Tell me about a time you sold a product with no case studies to back you up.
4. Give an example of a time when you had to work in a team.

Below we cover some tips on how to answer some of these questions and have made our own example answers to them. We also provide an example answer using the STAR+R model.

Question: How do you handle conflict?

Good Answer:

• When handling conflict, I prioritise open communication, fair hearing, and understanding among the parties involved. I believe in addressing issues proactively and transparently, fostering an environment of trust among team members to enable us to work cooperatively to complete tasks and achieve set goals.

Question: Give an example of a time when you had to work in a team.

Good Answer: 

• Situation: In my previous role as a Frontend Developer, I worked in a team of four when we were assigned the task of improving user satisfaction by remodelling the company’s website to improve efficiency and enhance the overall customer experience.

• Task: My primary responsibility was to design and implement the user interface changes and collaborate closely with the UI/UX designer to ensure the website’s visual appeal aligned with the company’s branding and objectives.

• Action: As a team, we conducted a thorough review of the website’s current design, carried out a customer survey, identified the complaints about the current design, and brainstormed potential solutions. Through this, we were able to outline the changes and updates that would be implemented with the new design.

• Result: Our effective teamwork led to a successful website remodelling, resulting in improved navigation, responsiveness, and user interface, significantly increasing user satisfaction and website engagement.

• Reflection: Working in this team taught me the value of collaborative problem-solving, diverse perspectives, open discussions, and clear communication to streamline the development process of a project and to achieve the best outcome.

9 Top Tips to Pass Your IBM Video Assessment

1. Research the role you are applying for. Read the job description thoroughly and identify the necessary skills and competencies required for the role.

2. Tailor your answers to focus on IBM’s core values and company culture when answering the behavioural interview questions.

3. Use the STAR+R model to answer competency-based questions. This helps you to structure your answers properly, just like we have done above in the example answers.

4. Dress smartly and ensure a professional, distraction-free background before you record your answers to the questions.

5. Keep track of the time during your answers, ensuring you stay within the time limit. When practicing, answer the questions within the specified time frame.

6. Close your responses smoothly and avoid abrupt endings. Tying your answer back to the question is a brilliant way to close your responses.

7. Maximise body language and voice for a strong first impression. Speak clearly, maintain direct eye contact with the camera, and practice to sound both relaxed and confident.

8. Use proper and appropriate hand gestures. These can help display confidence when speaking, but also be mindful to not use them in an excessive or distracting way.

9. Remain relaxed and calm while giving your answers. Practising your answers before you answer the questions always helps in this aspect.

Watch our short video below for more body language tips you can learn and use during your IBM video assessment.

If you successfully ace the online tests, the next stage of the IBM recruitment process is the assessment centre.

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IBM Assessment Centre

What is the IBM assessment centre?

IBM assessment centre is the final stage of its recruitment process, where you will be assessed on how you behave and interact in a typical work environment. This final stage is a chance for you and IBM to get to know each other better.

The exercises you will likely encounter and be required to complete as part of IBM’s assessment centre are;

1. IBM Group Exercises
2. IBM Final Interview

Read on to understand what each of the IBM assessment centre exercises entails, what they assess, and tips on how to navigate them.

1. IBM Group Exercises

What are IBM group exercises?

IBM group exercises involve pairing with other candidates to complete tasks or come up with short presentations. During these exercises, IBM recruiters will observe and assess your teamwork, communication, and decision-making skills.

Uncover more about how employers such as IBM assess you using group exercises and how you can get ahead with this video:

Discover more about how to prepare and ace your assessment centre presentation with our in-depth guide.

IBM uses these group exercises to get an idea of how you would behave in real-world situations and gauge how well candidates perform their job functions while dealing with a common problem.

7 Top Tips to Practice and Ace Your IBM Group Exercises 

1. Research IBM’s Values and Culture: Understand IBM’s core values and integrate them into your approach during the exercise to align with the company’s culture.

2. Practice with Friends: Engage in group practice sessions with friends or colleagues to simulate real-life scenarios and enhance teamwork and communication skills.

3. Listen Actively: During the exercise, actively listen to others’ ideas, show respect, and build upon their contributions to foster effective collaboration.

4. Be Proactive: Take initiative and contribute constructively to discussions, demonstrating leadership qualities within the group.

5. Time Management: Keep an eye on the clock and ensure the group stays on track to complete the task within the given time frame.

6. Stay Calm Under Pressure: Group exercises can be intense, so maintain composure and stay focused on the objective despite any challenges.

7. Be Yourself: Be genuine and showcase your unique skills, personality, and problem-solving approach during the group exercise.

After the group exercises, it is likely that IBM recruiters will invite you to a final interview.

2. IBM Final Interview

What is the IBM final interview?

The IBM final interview is where IBM recruiters get to ask more questions about you, tender some role-specific questions and also give you the chance to ask questions about the role and organisation too.

The final interview will mostly focus on your knowledge of IBM and the business area you applied to, as well as, ask some job-related behavioural and situational questions.

Some examples of questions you could be asked at your IBM final interview are;

• What do you know about IBM?
• Why IBM?
• What expertise and set of skills make you believe you are a good fit for this role?
• Tell me one thing that IBM has done recently that has impressed you.
• Who are our main competitors?
• Why are you applying for this role?

So how do we answer these IBM interview questions? Consider the following 6 tips to answer questions during your IBM final interview.

1. Research IBM and the role thoroughly before the final interview: Make sure you have an idea of all aspects of the organisation, especially the business area you are applying to.

2. Personalise your answers: Try to ensure that your answers are about you and how you align with IBM’s values and company culture.

3. Show dedication and enthusiasm: Overall, the recruiters want to know what knowledge of IBM you have and how motivated you are to join the company’s workforce. Make sure to show your dedication and enthusiasm to work with IBM and in the role through your answers.

4. Listen Actively: Pay close attention to the questions asked and respond directly, ensuring you properly answered the interviewer’s question.

5. Maintain good body language: Use body language that demonstrates positive and professional behaviour, such as subtle hand gestures and sitting up straight.

6. Prepare questions of your own: This interview is a chance for you to get to know more about the role and internal structures at IBM. Coming prepared with questions of your own also demonstrates your genuine interest in the role.

But what questions should we ask in this interview?

Here are some questions you might want to consider asking the recruiters in your lBM final interview:

• What are some of the role’s challenges?
• How do you measure success and what are your expectations for the first 6-12 months?
• What do you enjoy about your job?
• Are there opportunities for professional development?
• Is there anything about my resume that concerns you?

Discover 5 more questions you could ask in your IBM final interview with our short video below:

And….that’s a wrap on the IBM hiring process! If you are successful, IBM will be in touch to let you know and provide you with the necessary information and documentation you will need to begin your onboarding journey.

While you’re still here…

Check out our next section on the graduate programs and internship opportunities that you can apply to at IBM.

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IBM Graduate Schemes and Internships

What are IBM graduate schemes and internships?

IBM offers several early career opportunities for graduates and also offers internship and apprenticeship opportunities for soon-to-be graduates and those who don’t have a degree in the field they are pursuing a career in.

IBM offers the following opportunities for people interested in kick-starting their careers with the organisation;

1. IBM Early Careers
2. IBM Internships
3. IBM Apprenticeships

With these programmes, you will discover the perfect launching pad for your career. Let’s delve into them!

1. IBM Early Careers

What are IBM early careers?

IBM’s early careers are entry-level opportunities made available by the organisation. Graduates are welcome to apply to the various entry-level openings in the organisation.

These early career opportunities serve as the best kickstart for your career in IBM and also in the Information Technology sector. IBM’s early career opportunities offer entry-level roles in various business areas and includes several graduate schemes, such as;

1. Entry Level Developer Program
2. Technical Sales Graduate Program
3. IBM Consulting Associates Program

Eligibility Criteria for IBM Early Careers

• Education & Experience: For the majority of its entry roles, IBM requires you to be a graduate or have relevant equivalent experience and qualifications for the role.
• Locations: IBM’s early career opportunities are available globally in the countries the company operates in including; the UK and the US.
• Application Deadline: Applications to entry-level roles are made available as required by IBM. You can browse through the current openings on the IBM’s careers website or check back regularly for a role of your interest.

2. IBM Internships

What are IBM Internships?

IBM Internships are designed to give soon-to-be graduates the experience of what it is like to work in their desired role or field with the company. The program offers real-time experience and growth in skills for the interns.

During the internships, IBM involves its interns in projects from day one allowing them to make meaningful contributions and have meaningful impacts while also learning from experienced colleagues. IBM’s internship program offers entry into most of the organisation’s business areas including:

1. IBM Research
2. Cloud
3. Project management
4. Consulting

Eligibility Criteria for IBM Internships

• Education & Experience: To be eligible to apply for IBM Internship roles, you have to be an actively enrolled undergraduate in a recognized institution pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in the same field or similar discipline. Prior work experience isn’t compulsory.
• Locations: IBM’s Internships are available globally in the countries the company operates in including; the UK and US.
• Duration: IBM’s Internships vary in length and typically run between 6 to 12 months.
• Application Deadline: IBM Internship roles typically do not have fixed deadlines. Applications close when enough submissions are received or the right candidate is found. Any exceptions with deadlines will be mentioned in the job description.

3. IBM Apprenticeships

What are IBM apprenticeships? 

The IBM Apprenticeships are earn-and-learn programs for candidates without a bachelor’s degree in the profession they’re seeking but who have obtained knowledge in the area. The IBM Apprenticeship Program offers participants an exceptional chance to launch their careers.

Participants in this program network with IBM employees, receive mentoring from experts in their fields and accelerate their technical and professional growth. 

IBM’s apprenticeships include the following schemes;

1. Degree Apprenticeships: This program allows you to work and achieve a bachelor’s degree at the same time. This program offers undergraduate students the chance to use what they learn in the workplace as part of their degree. This program offers entry into the following roles:
   • Junior Management Consultant
   • Test Engineer
   • Junior DevOps Engineer
   • Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Degree

2. IBM Futures 12-month Placement Scheme: This program offers individuals, who are not currently studying or in school, the opportunity to work with IBM for 12 months, broadening your horizons and giving you a head start in your career. This program offers placement into:
   • Business Areas
   • Technical Areas
   • Design Areas

3. IBM Ignite Scheme: This program is a part of the nationwide “Movement to Work” program, an initiative of UK employers devoted to combating youth unemployment by offering opportunities for excellent vocational training and job experience. IBM is a proud supporter and partners with two charities in this initiative.

And there you have it! Those are the array of opportunities you can consider applying to at IBM to kickstart your career in the Information Technology sector.

However, before you go ahead and begin your IBM application and assessments, check out our FAQ section below to find even more answers to frequently asked questions concerning IBM assessments, interviews, and the IBM hiring process.

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IBM Assessment FAQs