Assistant Assessment via Loom

A practical framework for hiring remote talent, particularly assistants, using task-based assessments and strategic filtering to identify top performers efficiently.

Initial filtering process

• Post jobs on LinkedIn in Colombia, Brazil, South Africa, and the Philippines
• Promote with $100/day for 5 days to get ~1,000 applicants
• First filter: Typing speed test (35+ words per minute)
  • Eliminates 85% of applicants immediately
  • Essential for any remote role (engineering, marketing, design, admin, sales, leadership)
• Second filter: One-minute video introduction
  • 80% of remaining candidates won't complete this
  • Shows professional maturity and communication skills
  • Demonstrates seriousness about the job
• Results: From 1,000 applicants down to 30-40 qualified candidates

Task-based assessment approach

• Create a 60-90 minute assessment that simulates actual job responsibilities
• Have candidates record a Loom video while completing tasks
• Shows thought process, not just end product
• Reveals communication style and ease of working with them
• Provides objective comparison between candidates based on production

Example assistant assessment tasks

1. Travel planning: Book LA to Paris vacation with flexible dates
   • Provide multiple options: lowest cost, best balance of convenience/cost, most luxurious
   • Tests ability to create a "menu of options" for decision-making
2. Email drafting from voice notes: Convert fuzzy verbal instructions into polished emails
   • Tests ability to work with imperfect instructions
   • Shows if they can "write a fuzzy address on an envelope and it still gets there"
3. DMV/license research: Figure out how to change driver's license from Texas to Wyoming
   • Determine what can be done remotely vs. what requires personal action
   • Tests research and problem-solving skills
4. Event design: Create birthday card in Canva
   • Assesses basic design skills
   • Shows event organization capabilities
5. Influencer research: Find 10 fitness influencers matching specific criteria
   • Tests data collection abilities
   • Shows research skills and ability to follow criteria

Benefits of this approach

• Provides clarity on what you're actually looking for in a hire
• Avoids subjective "I liked them" interview decisions
• Focuses on production from the start
• Saves time and money compared to traditional interviewing
• Can pay candidates for their time on the assessment
• Prevents false hires based on personality rather than capability

Role-specific assessments

• Sales roles: Send 5 sales calls to analyze
  • Record 3-minute video on missed opportunities and improvements
  • Shows analytical skills and sales understanding
• Filters down to 3-4 really great candidates for final selection