Top Benefits of Australian Standard Typing Tests for Job Applications
The right qualifications and skills make a big difference in landing your dream job. Among those, the typing certification might sound insignificant but carries much weight in today's time and pace in the professional world. The Australian Standard Typing Test, which applicants in Australia can take, will prove not only your typing ability but also be an added strength in applying to almost all types of jobs.
This article looks at the key benefits of Australian Standard Typing Tests and explains their importance in relation to being an important tool in helping individuals get an edge in the employment market.
What Are Australian Standard Typing Tests?
The Australian Standard Typing Tests (ASTT) are formal tests of typing speed and accuracy to the recognised national standard. They are designed to be consistent with the Australian Standard AS2708-2001 and, as such, ensure consistency and reliability across industries. They are widely accepted by employers in both government and private sectors, making them a valuable credential among job candidates.
Examples of Job Roles That Require Typing Tests
Administrative and Clerical Positions: The ability to type is crucial in handling correspondence and records.
Data Entry Roles: Speed and accuracy ensure timely and error-free data handling.
Transcription Jobs: Many transcription jobs, especially those in the medical and legal fields, require applicants to take typing tests.
1. Demonstrates Typing Proficiency
The core purpose of a typing test is to measure your typing speed, often expressed in words per minute (WPM), and your typing accuracy %. Employers value these metrics because they indicate your ability to handle data entry tasks, create reports and communicate efficiently via email or other written forms.
With an ASTT certification, you can prove your capability to meet job-specific typing requirements, ensuring that employers see you as a competent and reliable candidate.
Example:
For a government role requiring at least 50 WPM, having a certified typing test result saves time during the hiring process and increases your chances of selection.
2. Enhances Your Resume
Including an Australian Standard Typing Test certification on your resume sets you apart from other candidates. It’s an indication of your professionalism and dedication to meeting industry standards. For roles like administrative assistants, data entry operators, or customer service representatives, this credential adds immediate value.
Pro Tip:
When listing your typing certification on your resume, include the speed and accuracy percentage along with the certification provider (e.g., "Certified Typing Speed: 60 WPM with 98% accuracy, Australian Standard Typing Tests").
3. Increases Eligibility for Government and Corporate Roles
Many government and corporate positions in Australia require typing tests as part of their application process. These roles often involve high volumes of documentation, report generation, or data processing. By taking an ASTT, you align your skills with the specific requirements of these sectors.
Specific Examples of Roles:
Administrative assistants for state or federal government agencies.
Police or public service positions requiring documentation and report writing.
Data entry clerks for large corporations or healthcare providers.
Having an Australian Standard Typing Test certification not only makes you eligible for these roles but also gives you a competitive edge.
4. Builds Confidence for Job Interviews
Confidence plays a vital role during the hiring process. Knowing you’ve already proven your typing skills through a recognised test can boost your self-assurance in interviews. Employers are likely to view your certification as a testament to your work ethic and preparedness.
Moreover, some employers may administer their own typing tests as part of the recruitment process. Your prior experience with ASTT ensures you’re well-prepared to excel in these assessments.
5. Convenient and Accessible
Australian Standard Typing Tests are highly accessible and can often be completed online. This flexibility allows job seekers from all over the country, including remote areas, to gain certification without the need for physical attendance.
For those balancing multiple commitments, the online format provides the freedom to take the test at a convenient time. Many providers, including ASTT, also offer preparation tools to help candidates improve their typing speed and accuracy before taking the official test.
Why Online Accessibility Matters:
Saves time and eliminates the need for travel.
Provides practice options to ensure you’re ready for the test.
Immediate results and certification make it easy to meet job application deadlines.
6. Recognised Across Industries
One of the biggest advantages of Australian Standard Typing Tests is their recognition across multiple industries. Whether you’re applying for a job in the public sector, healthcare, education, or corporate settings, your certification will be viewed as credible and valuable.
Industry Examples:
Healthcare: Typing speed is crucial for roles like medical transcriptionists, who need to document patient records quickly and accurately.
Education: Administrative staff in schools and universities rely on typing skills for tasks like scheduling, report generation, and communication.
Corporate: From human resources to customer service, typing is an essential skill for creating reports, processing applications, and managing communication.
7. Aligns with Modern Workforce Requirements
In today’s digital age, typing is a foundational skill that underpins most professional tasks. Employers are looking for candidates who can navigate digital tools and communicate efficiently in written form.
An ASTT certification is a clear signal that you possess these essential skills. Moreover, it demonstrates your adaptability and readiness to work in modern, tech-driven environments.
Relevance in the Digital Workplace:
Data entry tasks in enterprise software.
Communication through emails, reports, and digital collaboration platforms.
Documentation and record-keeping in compliance with organisational standards.
8. Cost-Effective Career Investment
Taking an Australian Standard Typing Test is a relatively low-cost way to enhance your professional credentials. Compared to other certifications, typing tests are affordable and provide a high return on investment, especially for entry-level and administrative roles.
How ASTT Makes It Affordable:
Online tests reduce overhead costs.
Quick certification process saves time and resources.
No additional materials or courses are required unless you wish to practice.
9. Helps Employers Streamline Recruitment
Employers benefit from candidates who already hold accredited typing certifications. It eliminates the need for additional in-house assessments and simplifies the hiring process. By presenting your ASTT certification, you position yourself as a candidate who saves the employer time and effort, further increasing your appeal.
10. Encourages Continuous Skill Improvement
Preparing for and taking an Australian Standard Typing Test often leads to ongoing skill improvement. The process encourages you to focus on speed, accuracy, and productivity - skills that remain valuable throughout your career.
Many candidates find that their typing test preparation helps them become more efficient in daily tasks, from composing emails to creating detailed reports.
Conclusion
An Australian Standard Typing Test certification offers a wide range of benefits for job seekers, from enhancing employability to preparing for specific job roles. By demonstrating your typing proficiency, you stand out in a competitive job market and align your skills with modern workplace demands.
Whether you’re targeting government jobs, corporate roles, or administrative positions, obtaining an ASTT certification is a simple yet powerful way to boost your career prospects.
Ready to take the next step? Visit Australian Standard Typing Tests (ASTT) to register for your test today and start reaping the benefits of a recognised typing certification!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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The minimum typing speed requirement varies by role, but here are some general benchmarks:
Administrative roles: 40-50 words per minute (WPM) with 95% accuracy.
Police support staff: 25+ WPM with 98% accuracy.
Data entry positions: 60+ WPM with 98% accuracy.
Meeting or exceeding these requirements significantly enhances your employability, especially in government and administrative sectors.
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Yes, online typing tests are reliable as long as they are conducted by a recognised provider like the Australian Standard Typing Tests (ASTT). Such tests are designed to follow strict guidelines, including standardised timings and accuracy assessments. Always verify that the test adheres to recognised AS2708-2001 national standards.
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Typing certification generally does not expire. However, a person's ability does deteriorate if they do not continue to practice. If the job requires intense and high levels of typing it would be advisable to update certifications or retest after several years to show proficiency currently.
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Not all employers require typing certification, but many regard it as an added advantage in a working environment that requires data entry, documentation, or administrative work. Government agencies, legal firms, healthcare providers, and corporate offices often give first preference to those who have certified typing skills as an assurance of efficiency and accuracy.
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Yes, most of the typing test providers allow retaking the test and ASTT is no exception. If your initial score doesn't meet the required benchmark, then you can practice and retake the test to improve your speed and accuracy. Some providers may have a wait period before they can retest; you should check their policy.
When you purchase access to an Australian Standard Typing Test Certificate Package, you'll gain entry to our Typing Portal, with unlimited access to practice tests and six main typing tests.
