Assessment Centres
Assessment Centres
An assessment centre is not exactly a place, but rather an event or a process that many
organisations use to assess a set of competencies or skills. Some run for half a day, while
others might last as long as two days; it depends on the style and requirements of
the organisation.
Typically, assessment centres involve participants completing a range of exercises that are
based on the requirements of the job. They could include a competency-based interview,
role-play, group exercises, a psychometric test, presentations or even an e-tray exercise.
All these tests are designed so that the participants have the opportunity to demonstrate
the skills required by the job.
Prepare to shine
There are two main areas that you can work on to be successful: preparation around the
assessments and an awareness of body language – yours and everyone else’s. As soon
as you get your invitation to attend the assessment centre, find out what exercises you will
be undertaking and the competencies that are being assessed. Typical assessment areas
include planning and organising, decision-making, team-working, communicating
and influencing.
Show confidence
The second area of preparation concerns body language. Keep your tone of voice positive
and be aware of your posture – especially when you feel anxious. If you are feeling very
nervous, make sure this is not reflected in your body language.
Make sure you smile, nod and acknowledge when others are talking. The organisation
is looking for participants to demonstrate behaviours that they would like to see in their
workplace. Put yourself in an assessor’s shoes and think about what they are looking for.
The key to being successful and standing out from the rest is to know what to expect.
You can practise psychometric tests online for free – go to www.1st-step.co.uk or
wwwYouTube.com, where you can observe a wide range of videos or group exercises and
interviews so you can learn from others mistakes. Good luck!
08 www.gradjobs.co.uk
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