What I did to prepare was rather simple. I searched for practice tests online – which can be found in the link above – and did a lot of practice typing. I also had people read addresses to me, and I typed them; I had people read me VIN numbers, and I typed them. When I drove places I became more aware of street signs, and cross streets, trying to figure out how I would give directions to someone driving to that location. Becoming more aware of your surroundings can be a huge asset in learning how to navigate, and give proper directions. Many times we simply are on “autopilot” when we drive, and don’t take time to consciously take in our surroundings.
Call taking/dispatching can be a very stressful career. Preparing for that career can be very stressful, too! My advice before taking the CritiCall Test?
12 Best Brain Foods To Eat Before Taking A Test
I think dinner at Olive Garden to celebrate with my daughters is in my future. This deserves a celebration of some sort. Passing the CritiCall exam is a major milestone in my quest for a new job.
What has been a milestone or achievement for you lately? Leave a comment so we can share. 🙂
And here is the first post about my quest for a new job – Well, I Did It ….
Passed the Ergometrics Testing!
Director’s Interview, Here I Come!
Calls Like This Make Me Love My Job
Comments are closed.
Hi there,
Can you give me some pointer how to prep the exam? what is the format for the exam? I currently get invited to take the critical exam in this beginning of April. And I thought you might able to help.
There are several parts to the exam. There are parts where you are needing to enter address information into a form, and listening to a caller give you the information – but the information may not be in the order you need to enter it. There are parts where you need to be able to give directions, and determine the quickest route to a location on a map. Much of it focuses on memory, being able to retain information and then enter it correctly. The toughest part for me was the VIN #’s! 🙂 I would prep by practicing your typing, and having someone read you addresses or VIN #’s and then typing them into a Word document on your computer. Just practicing listening and typing will help a great deal. You will do fine; just relax and focus on the tasks you are given during the test. Listen, and use your instincts and common sense. Good Luck! 🙂
So, did you get the job? I’ll be taking CritiCall test in the next week or two. And, I also live in the Willamette Valley 🙂 Wondering what comes after as I’m not too worried about passing the test. How many interviews before the training, and REAL JOB, begin? I’m also on a path of reinvention…
Yes, I did get hired but have since moved on to work for the Oregon State Hospital. But I loved being a call taker! It was a lot of training and work, but very worthwhile. When I went through the process there were two interviews (one a panel interview and a Director’s interview) then after being hired, there was a six-week in-house training academy, two weeks at DPSST (Department of Public Safety Standards and Training) and six months of training one-on-one with a trainer before you would “solo.” Hope that helps. 🙂
Congrats!
Congratulations. Keep up the great work.
Thank you, Christy! Thank you for visiting my blog, and thanks for your encouragement. 🙂
Just started following you on your blog, Twitter and Facebook. 🙂