A pre-employment assessment is a standardized evaluation used during the hiring process to measure a candidate's skills, cognitive ability, personality traits, or cultural fit before a hiring decision is made. Assessments can range from technical skills tests to behavioral questionnaires depending on the role.

When used correctly, these candidate screening tools provide an objective data point that complements resume screening and interviews. They help hiring managers make more informed decisions and can reduce early turnover by ensuring candidates are well-suited for the demands of the position.