Passing the Amazon Test for Warehouse and Fulfillment

What Is an Amazon Fulfillment Center?

An Amazon fulfillment center is another way of describing the warehouse where Amazon orders are processed and distributed.

They are called 'fulfillment centers' because the whole process is fulfilled in one location, from inventory arriving to orders going out.

Fulfillment centers run multiple shifts each day, employing over 250,000 full-time staff in 175 locations across the globe.

What Does Amazon Look For in Employees?

For a fulfillment center position, Amazon doesn’t have a long list of requirements.

They are very flexible in their hiring approach and are regarded as an equal opportunity employer.

This means that they employ individuals from all types of backgrounds and with all levels of ability.

On-the-job training is provided, so applicants don't even need to have experience of working in a warehouse environment, although this can be helpful.

The only requirements for applying for a position within an Amazon fulfillment center are:

• Be over the age of 18
• Hold a GED or equivalent diploma
• Have the ability to read and speak English for safety reasons

Different positions may hold extra requirements. It is always a good idea to thoroughly read a listing before choosing to apply. For example, roles that require the use of heavy machinery such as forklift trucks may require specific licenses and training.

The process of applying for a job at Amazon is relatively straightforward.

Candidates will find that the majority of the recruitment process is completed online or over the phone. Generally, the process will follow four steps:

What Assessments and Tests Do Amazon Use?

For warehouse and fulfillment roles, Amazon generally uses three types of assessment designed to show employers a range of insights as to what you would be like as an employee and highlight any key skills you may have.

Workstyle Assessment

This is a personality-style assessment designed to show an employer what type of employee you would be.

You will be shown a series of statement pairs, and the objective is to select the one which you think describes you the best.

This test is looking specifically for individuals who match well with Amazon’s leadership principles. It should only take 10–20 minutes to complete this assessment.

Work Sample Situation

The work sample situation assessment is a much longer test and will typically take between 20 minutes and one hour.

During this time, you will be asked to complete simulated tasks relating to activities involved in the role you have applied for.

This will enable you to showcase your decision-making, problem-solving, interpersonal and prioritization skills.

How to Prepare for Your Amazon Test for Warehouse and Fulfillment

Research the Role

Before applying for any position, you should always research the role. Make sure that you know what will be expected of you and what responsibilities you may have.

This can help you to decide whether or not the position will be suitable for you. For example, a role that involves changing shift patterns may mean that you need to consider childcare.

Research the Company’s Values

Understanding a company’s values can provide valuable insight for you when you go through the interview process.

By looking at their mission statement, interviews and press coverage, you can get an idea as to what type of individual they are looking for as an employee and whether or not you feel that you would be a good fit.

It can also help you tailor your answers during the process if you know what an interviewer could be looking for.

Understand the Leadership Principles

Amazon looks for individuals who embody their leadership principles.

There are 16 principles that Amazon considers key to the success of the company. Look through the list and think of how you can showcase these in your answers.

The 16 leadership principles to consider are:

• Customer obsession
• Ownership
• Invent and simplify
• Are right, a lot
• Learn and be curious
• Hire and develop the best
• Insist on the highest standards
• Think big
• Bias for action
• Frugality
• Earn trust
• Dive deep
• Have backbone; disagree and commit
• Deliver results
• Strive to be Earth's best employer
• Success and scale bring broad responsibility

Take Practice Tests

Most online assessments will be timed, so it is important to take practice assessments ahead of the real thing.

Not only does it help to familiarize you with the questioning style, but it will also help you to ensure that you can answer all of the questions within the allotted time.

Incompleted assessments will automatically leave you with a lower score; therefore, practicing is essential to ensure you achieve your best possible result.

Read the Instructions

Always make sure that you read the instructions. Not only is this valuable advice for life in general, but it is vital when completing assessments.

Take a few minutes to read through the instructions thoroughly before you begin answering. That way, you can avoid unnecessary mistakes.

Key Tips for Your Amazon Test for Warehouse and Fulfillment

Use the STAR Method

The STAR method is an important tool to use in interviews and can be adapted to almost any situation.

By using this method, you can give structured responses to questions that include examples and are relevant to the role you are applying for.

• S: Situation – Outline the situation which you are going to be speaking about
• T: Task – What was your task?
• A: Action – What action did you take in order to achieve your task?
• R: Result – What was the end result of the task?

Know the key competencies of your role and how you will show these skills

When you research the position you are applying for, this should help you to understand the key competencies of the role.

When you know what a company is looking for in candidates, it can help you to think of answers and examples which you can use to showcase your skills.

Make Sure You Have a Stable Internet Connection

The assessments are performed online. It is, therefore, vital to have a secure, reliable internet connection.

If your connection drops during the assessment process, it could negatively impact your results.

Inform Your Recruiter of Any Special Requirements

Some individuals need special considerations when it comes to taking assessments. For example, those with dyslexia may need extra time to read through and properly answer questions.

Individuals with visual conditions may need to take assessments that are compatible with specific software programs.

Inform your recruiter of any considerations in plenty of time so that solutions can be put in place for you.

Find Somewhere Quiet to Take the Assessment

It is always better to take assessments in a quiet location. This is so that you can properly concentrate on the assessment without distractions.

If you have a quiet room, this is the ideal space to take the assessments. If not, consider asking a friend if they have a space you can use.

Be Authentic

There is no point in trying to be someone else when applying for a job.

Even if you don’t think that you necessarily fit the criteria, it is much better to be true to who you are, rather than trying to portray someone you’re not.

If you are not honest in your answers, you could find yourself in a role that doesn’t suit you and leaves you feeling dissatisfied.

Final Thoughts

A position at an Amazon fulfillment center may seem easy to achieve. In reality, it can be.

However, as with all interviews and assessments, your success can come down to whether or not you have done enough preparation beforehand.

Taking time to research the role, understand the leadership principles and take practice tests can mean that you are able to perform at your best on the day.